Sean writes: I was overjoyed to get some new music from the fusion friendly group Society of Chemists in my inbox. The members of Society of Chemists are criminally busy with other projects, but they find the time to keep this one going because the band has such tangible passion for the self-described “chamber jazz...Read More
Jazz88’s Peter Solomon spoke with Tony Balluff, clarinetist and founding member of the Southside Aces, about the Jazz Age Rumpus IV taking place at the Hook and Ladder Theater on Sunday, March 23rd from 3 – 7 PM. The music will focus on the New York sounds of Bix Beiderbecke, Ellington small groups such as...Read More
April is “Jazz Appreciation Month,” and Jazz88 is looking forward to celebrating with a concert honoring our 2025 Minnesota Jazz Legends: drummer Jay Epstein, pianist and Walker West Music Academy founder Grant West, Dixieland trombonist Art Katzman, and the late, award-winning jazz vocalist Debbie Duncan. Presented by Jazz88, this special concert will be held at...Read More
Jazz88’s Peter Solomon spoke with singer Madeleine Peyroux about her latest album, 2024’s Let’s Walk. The album focuses entirely on original music–songs that address issues of social justice, life, and love. Peyroux will perform in a double billing with blues and soul singer Bettye LaVette on Thursday, March 20th and Friday, March 21 at the...Read More
Here are the top ten new releases from Jazz88! Vote for your five favorites below! Zaccai Curtis – Cuban Fantasy Black Market Brass – Battle Ready feat. Obi Original Renee Rosnes – Amor Até O Fim Vanisha Gould – Cute Boy Hannah Harder – The Greatest of These is Love Holly Cole – Where...Read More
Speaking about Bill Charlap’s trio, the legendary songwriter Johnny Mandel said “It Don’t Get No Better Than That.” Bill Charlap’s quiet and humble demeanor belies the fact he is one the reigning modern modern masters of jazz piano. In this conversation with Jazz88’s Peter Solomon, he discusses his musical influences, his current trio, his newest...Read More
Mike Munson is a Winona-based guitarist and vocalist deeply rooted in the blues. Recently Munson has been charting a new course in his career and put together a trio featuring Twin Cities mainstays featuring Nick Salisbury on bass and Lars-Erik Larson on drums. When I got my hands on the instrumental “Night Flying Birds” it...Read More
Bob James and Dave Koz are titans in the world of contemporary jazz. After years of guesting on each other’s productions, the pair decided to toss off a “mini CD” of duets as a ‘thank you’ for guests on one of Dave Koz’s jazz-oriented cruises. This miniature collaboration led to a full-blown duo release recorded...Read More
Jazz88’s Peter Solomon spoke with Dayna Martinez, the Executive Director of the 2025 Twin Cities Jazz Festival to get a preview of the headlining acts. More Posts for Show: The Morning ShowRead More
Black Market Brass and Obi Original are two of the most respected names in Minnesota music and now they have teamed up for a collaborative release. Obi is the featured vocalists on the new single “Battle Ready” from Black Market Brass. Vocalist Obi Original along with Mitch Sigurdson (guitar) and David Tullis (congas) swung by...Read More
