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