Shows
Jazz88The Evolution of L.A. BucknerJazz88's Peter Solomon sat down for a conversation with L.A. Buckner, who talks about why he celebrates his home turf of North Side Minneapolis, the influences that inform his music, and the evolution of his band Big Homie. L.A, Buckner and Big Homie are a headliner at this year;s Twin Cities Jazz Festival. You can catch the band Saturday, June 21st at 6 PM at the Jazz88 Main Stage at Mears Park in St. Paul. .
2025-06-1315 min
Jazz88The Making of a New Orleans Clarinet Queen: Doreen KetchensDoreen Ketchens reflects on growing up in New Orleans historic Treme neighborhood, her development as a jazz clarinetist, and playing music with her family on the streets of New Orleans and in concerts and festivals around the world. Ketchens plays the Twin Cities Jazz Festival Friday June 20th at 6 PM on the Jazz88 Main Stage in St. Paul.
2025-06-1020 min
Jazz88Patrick Lamb shares insights on collaborating with music legends and previews his debut Crooner’s concert on May 9th with Minnesota's Legendary “Peterson Brothers”, Ricky, Paul & Jason.Award-winning saxophonist Patrick Lamb, celebrated for his collaborations with music legends like Gino Vannelli, Bobby Caldwell, and Diane Schuur, is stepping into the spotlight with his new single, "Mint Condition”. Patrick talks with Jazz88’s Patty Peterson about his Twin Cities debut concert at Crooners on May 9th , which features Minnesota’s own Ricky Peterson (organ), Paul Peterson (bass), Jason Peterson-DeLaire (keys) and Joe Finger (drums).
2025-05-0709 min
Jazz88Three Dance Companies in Mega Dance EventZorongo Flamenco Dance Theater, Katha Dance Theater and Flying Foot Forum are Twin Cities Dance Companies with close connections with music. These companies combine forces on Thursday May 8 and many other dates through May 18 at the Andy Boss Thrust Stage at Park Square Theater in Saint Paul, from 7:30 till 10pm. The performance is called Time Piece. Phil Nusbaum had the opportunity for a visit to a rehearsal of Joe Chvala and Karla Grotting of Flying Foot Forum.
2025-04-2908 min
Jazz88Black gospel and Somali blues come together at the 'Crossroads'Somali blues & American gospel have a conversation in a show coming to the St. Thomas University campus (St. Paul) Sunday, April 6 and Saint John's University (Collegeville) April 27. Bobby Vandell spoke with the organizers JD Steele, Ahmed Yusuf and Beck Lee. Details at https://culturalfluencyinitiative.org/events/
2025-04-0408 min
Jazz88Adrian Younge Brings An Orchestra and His Own Reality to the Turf Club in Saint PaulAdrian Younge is a prolific and gifted musician, producer, performer and curator who has been at the helm of the Jazz is Dead project alongside his partner Ali Shaheed Mohammed since 2017, releasing collaborative albums with legends like Brian Jackson, Azymuth, Jean Carne, Tony Allen and more. Younge is on the road for his Something About April Tour with a stop at the Turf Club in Saint Paul on Friday March 14. Younge connected with Sean from Jazz88 to discuss the tour and the Jazz is Dead project.
2025-03-0713 min
Jazz88For Hannah Harder, Music is a Central Part of Her LifeHannah Harder is a young saxophonist and composer from the Twin Cities. She recently released her debut album as a leader, The Greatest of These is Love. Harder connected with Sam Keenan from Minnesota Jazz Tracks to discuss the new record, her path to jazz and her upcoming release show at MetroNOME Brewery in St. Paul on Wednesday, February 26.
2025-02-2509 min
Jazz88Filmmaker John Scheinfeld on "What the Hell Happened to Blood Sweat and Tears?"Jazz88's Peter Solomon speaks with filmmaker John Scheinfeld about his 2023 documentary "What the Hell Happened to Blood Sweat and Tears?" The film tells the story of the pioneering jazz rock band - one of the most popular bands in the world in the late sixties and early seventies - and the disastrous impact of going on tour beind the Iron Curtain for the US State Department. Scheinfeld describes the film as "a fascinating political thriller that involves the Nixon White House, the State Department, the governments of Yugoslavia, Romania and Poland, and a lot of behind the scenes doings...
2025-02-1117 min
Jazz88Dorothy Doring Performs a Cabaret Night on February 15 at the Phipps CenterSaint Croix Valley Opera Stages Dorothy Doring’s cabaret night. Dorothy’s show is called Glory of Love, and it takes place during Valentine’s Day weekend Saturday, February 15, at the Phipps Center for the Arts in Hudson, WI, at 7pm. The performance is staged by the Saint Croix Valley Opera Company. Phil Nusbaum talked about the show with the singer, Dorothy Doring, and about Cabaret night with Jennifer Eckes of Saint Croix Opera.
2025-02-1108 minJazz88Brent Fuqua Throws Birthday Bash and Release Party March 13 at the Hook and Ladder in MinneapolisBrent Fuqua celebrates the release of both his singer songwriter material and bluegrass songs Thursday March 13 at 7:30 at the Hook and Ladder in Minneapolis. That evening, the Mother Banjo band, Steam Machine and the Lake Monsters will add to the festivities. When Brent talked to Phil Nusbaum about his songs, Brent first addressed one written for his wife, No Nonsense Girl .
2025-02-0908 min
Jazz88Twin Cities Flamenco Collective Performs with Guest Artist at Crooner’s, Saturday February 15The Twin Cities Flamenco Collective performs at Crooner’s in Fridley, Saturday February 15 from 7:30 till 9pm. Phil Nusbaum talked with guitarist Ross Fellrath and dancer Sachiko Jah Gee about flamenco, and the group’s guest for this performance, José Moreno.
2025-02-0908 min
Jazz88Walker West Hosts A Youth Women in Jazz WorkshopKatia Cardenas is a professional singer in the Twin Cities as well as being the program director for Walker West without Walls. Cardenas is also at the helm of the Women in Jazz Initiative for Walker West. This Saturday there is as a "Youth Women in Jazz Workshop" at South High School. Katia was nice enough to connect with MN Jazz Tracks host Sam Keenan to talk about this initiative in general and Saturday's workshop in particular.
2025-02-0408 min
Jazz88Global Jazz Collegium’s First Time at Berlin in MinneapolisPavel Jany leads the Global Jazz Collegium into Berlin in Minneapolis, for the group’s first ever appearance at the club. It will be this Friday night, February 7 from 7:30 till 10pm. In a conversation with Phil Nusbaum, Pavel talked about the evolution of the jazz approaches taken by the group.
2025-02-0408 minJazz88Pop Wagner’s Hampden Rounders Plays for Brunch Next Saturday at Icehouse in MinneapolisPop Wagner’s groups entertain for brunch every second Saturday of the month at Icehouse from 11am till 2pm. This Saturday, January 8, Pop performs with the Hampden Rounders. Pop talked to Phil Nusbaum about the show, and first about the individual Rounders.
2025-02-0208 min
Jazz88A New Guitarist Comes to Town - Scott BurtonJazz88's Peter Solomon spoke with guitarist and composer Scott Burton. Burton now lives in Eau Claire, Wisconsin but formerly lived in Richmond, Virginia (where Peter and Scott crossed paths on occasion). An artist inspired by collaboration and pushing musical boundaries, Burton brings a newly formed trio called "Mantis" to Berlin on Monday, February 10th. Attached photo of Mantis members Sean Carey (left) , Jeremy Boettscher (middle), and Scott Burton (right) by Jon Fibeger.
2025-01-3109 min
Jazz88Room3 Releases Moqueca and Prepares for Best New Bands at First AveThe players in Room3 are keeping busy. After building up a reputation in the past handful of years for electrifying live shows the band has finally released some recorded material and they're preparing for a performance on Friday, January 31 at First Ave as part of the Best New Bands concert. Keyboardist Eli Awada and bassist Beck Madson stopped by our studios to chat about their new single, Moqueca, and about the big show coming up this weekend.
2025-01-2909 min
Jazz88North Star Jazz Workshops Launch Adult ClassesJazz88's Peter Solomon visited an adult jazz combo in their first rehearsal directed by bassist/educator Chris Bates at Jazz Central. The combo is one of eleven groups that got started in January through North Star Jazz Workshops.
2025-01-2904 minJazz88The River City Jazz Orchestra Pleases Ears in Familiar and Unfamiliar WaysThe River City Jazz Orchestra sports 17 pieces. The number of pieces gives the group the ability to play in many moods, revisit old songs in surprising new ways, and provide space for creative soloing. Roger Grup is co-lead trumpeter for the band, and he talked with Phil Nusbaum about keeping the approach fresh.
2025-01-2808 min
Jazz88Star of the North Jazz Orchestra In its Monthly Beast Barbecue Show Tuesday January 28The Star of the North Jazz Orchestra performs its monthly show at the Beast Barbecue in Minneapolis, Tuesday January 28. Phil Nusbaum talked with founding member Patrick Gonsalves and singer Jen Burleigh – Bentz, first about the mission of Star of the North.
2025-01-2608 min
Jazz88Omar Abdul-Karim and Kavyesh Kaviraj Have A Vision for Their MusicAfter years of sessions and casual collaborations, trumpet player Omar Abdul-Karim and pianist Kavyesh Kaviraj have forged a collaborative project. The quartet, which also features Ted Olsen on bass and Kevin Washington on drums, will perform on Tuesday, January 28 at the Dakota. Sean McPherson from the Afternoon Cruise caught up with the duo to get a sense of how this collaboration came about and how they're enjoying it!
2025-01-2413 min
Jazz88A Great Jam on a Cold January Night in Northeast MinneapolisOn January 14, Sean McPherson from Jazz88 headed down to Whitey's Old Town Saloon in Northeast Minneapolis to check out a weekly Tuesday jam session helmed by bassist Graydon Peterson. Check out audio of the jam session, details about how to get involved and interviews with key players from the night.
2025-01-2107 min
Jazz88Burning Blue Rain Releases New EP Wednesday January 29 at 7th Street Entry in MinneapolisBurning Blue Rain is composed of guitarist / vocalist Louis Tessman Stanoch and keyboardist / vocalist Oliver Osland. The two plus rhythm section celebrates its new EP, “Blue Frame” Wednesday January 29 at Seventh Street Entry in Minneapolis. Showtime is 8pm. Louis and Oliver started their musical careers as young kids.
2025-01-2108 min
Jazz88Ghost of a Chance: Using One Couple's History to Tell a Bigger Story About Race in MinnesotaThe Star Tribune has launched a new podcast called "Ghost of a Chance" that tells the story of a black couple named Harry and Clementine Robinson who lived in South Minneapolis in the early twentieth century. The house that they occupied now belongs to Eric Roper, who happens to be the editor of the paper's regular history feature, "Curious Minnesota." Roper purchased the home in March of 2020 and used the extra time he had during the pandemic to research its former occupants. That took him deeply into the family histories of the couple, and he travelled all over the country...
2025-01-2008 min
Jazz88Kendra Glenn, Ginger Commodore and Monique Blakey Combine for a Tribute to Singer Anita Baker7PM on Sunday January 26, Kendra Glenn, Ginger Commodore and Monique Blakey create a special tribute show to influential and inspiring singer, Anita Baker. Kendra Glenn talked to Phil Nusbaum about the show, which at the time of the interview, was in rehearsal. First, Kendra addressed the special qualities of the voice of Anita Baker.
2025-01-1908 min
Jazz88"It's a Group Effort, It's a Family Affair" - Bill Summers and Mike Clark Reflect on 50+ Years of HeadhuntersPercussionist Bill Summers described music as a "religious undertaking" when he connected with Jazz88's Sean McPherson to discuss the recent Headhunters record and their upcoming performance at the Dakota. Summers was joined by their drummer Mike Clark and the conversation covered iconic moments from Headhunters history, the group's current lineup and their concern for musicians who are suffering after the Los Angeles fires.
2025-01-1718 min
Jazz88Light Transforming Darkness: A Martin Luther King Jr. Tribute Concert at U of MJazz88's Peter Solomon spoke with G. Philip Shoultz, III about the 44th annual Martin Luther King Jr. Tribute Concert taking place Sunday, January 19th at Ted Mann Concert Hall.
2025-01-1606 min
Jazz88Bruce Henry Uses Music To Build CommunityThe celebrated vocalist Bruce Henry is back in town to perform a concert on Saturday at the Dakota titled "Everyone Under the Sun: A Celebration of Unity and Love." Henry connected with Sean McPherson to discuss how he and the band will use Martin Luther King Jr. as a point of departure to build community with the audience.
2025-01-1305 min
Jazz88Saxophonist, Boney James' New CD and Tour-Slow BurnJazz88's Patty Peterson talks to sax man, Boney James, about his new CD called "Slow Burn" and his tour, which brings him to the Fitzgerald Theater in St. Paul December 18th, 2024.
2024-12-1020 min
Jazz88Katia Cardenas Sings Her Favorites at Rondo Community Music Series December 7Saturday night December 7 at 7PM, Katia Cardenas and trio perform at Walker West Music Academy in Saint Paul. It’ll be a program of Katia’s favorites, so it is It’s slightly ironic that one of Katia’s favorites is the standard “My Favorite Things.” In an interview with Phil Nusbaum Katia first told of the concert series she is part of at Walker.
2024-12-0308 min
Jazz88Mike Wolter Trio Next Saturday Night at the Lexington in Saint PaulMike Wolter leads his trio into the Lexington in Saint Paul, next Saturday night, November 23 at 7pm. The performance will lean on the standards, but Mike and company bring experience with many types of jazz to each performance. When Mike talked to Phil Nusbaum, they spoke about different types of tunes and different types of inspirations, including a Wolters original, long part of Winter. That one has a folk influence.
2024-11-1708 min
Jazz88Cory Wong talks about coming home for 2 concerts at the Palace Theater and his newest album with the Metropole Orkest.Jazz88's Patty Peterson spoke to guitarist, Cory Wong about coming back to his home town for 2 concerts at the Palace Theater in St. Paul, November 23rd and 24th. He also talked about what it was like to write, arrange and record his original material with the Metrople Orkest for his newest album "Starship Syncopation".
2024-11-1426 min
Jazz88Pat Bianchi + Hammond B3 = A Perfect MatchJazz88's Peter Solomon spoke with organist Pat Bianchi about his relationship to the Hammond B-3 organ and the influence of the late organist Joey DeFrancesco. Bianchi will perform at the Crooners Main Stage Thursday, November 14th with drummer Byron Landham and guitarist Paul Bollenback, who served as DeFrancesco's rhythm section for many years.
2024-11-1211 min
Jazz88John Penny and the Virtual Band Performs at the Metronome in Saint Paul Tuesday November 12John Penny creates dense musical textures using virtual instruments. These crafted arrangements accompany John’s singing and guitar playing on original and other compelling music. It’s John’s latest project, and comes after years of writing movie scores and soundtracks for TV commercials, and playing World jazz on the guitar. John performs Tuesday November 12, 6-7pm at the Metronome in Saint Paul. In a conversation with Phil Nusbaum, John Penny first address why he composes music.
2024-11-0908 min
Jazz88Oogie_Push Tells Her Story with the Help of Water in "The Adventures of a Traveling Meskwaki"Oogie_Push is from the Meskwaki Nation and is currently creating on Dakota territory, aka the Twin Cities. She’s an actor, writer, storyteller, dancer, a Meskwaki twine bag weaver, a production assistant and an award-winning documentarian. She is the playwright and lead performer for the Full Circle Production “The Adventures of a Traveling Meskwaki”. The show opens this evening (Friday November 8) at the Park Square Theatre in downtown Saint Paul and it runs through November 24th.
2024-11-0810 min
Jazz88Judy Carmichael Stays Nimble On StageBroadcaster and Grammy-nominated performer Judy Carmichael is coming back to the Twin Cities for a performance at the O'Shaugnessy in Saint Paul on Saturday, November 16. She's no stranger to listeners of Jazz88 as we carry her show "Judy Carmichael's Jazz Inspired" on Monday nights at 10pm. She connected with Sean McPherson from Jazz88 to discuss her development as a piano player and how vital her connections with originators in the world of jazz like Count Basie were in the early years of her career.
2024-11-0812 min
Jazz88Celebrating Organist Shirley Scott with The MN Hard Bop CollectiveJesse Simon from the MN Hard Bop Collective grew up loving organ jazz out in Denver, Colorado so when it came to for the MN Hard Bop Collective to add more events to their sit-in series it was no surprise that Simon decided to concentrate on the organ. The series will draw inspiration from the legendary organist Shirley Scott. The MN Hard Bop Collective is launching a new weekly Sit-In Series event on Wednesdays from 4:30-5:30 at Metronome in Saint Paul. The group already holds court for their original Sit In Series at Metronome on Mondays at 7pm. Both events...
2024-11-0505 min
Jazz88Celebrating the Birthday of Bud Powell with Dale AlexanderJazz88's Peter Solomon spoke with Dale Alexander, a pianist and drummer based in LA but originally from St. Paul, to get his thoughts on Bud Powell. The father of modern jazz piano was born September 27, 1924 and would be 100 years old.
2024-09-2709 min
Jazz88Vocalist Ashley DuBose Prepares for a Jazzy Weekend with a Set at Selby Ave JazzFestCelebrated vocalist Ashley DuBose took some time out of her day to chat about her songs, her love of jazz and her upcoming performance at the Selby Ave JazzFest on Saturday, September 14 in Saint Paul.
2024-09-1204 min
Jazz88Selby Avenue Jazz Fest is a Neighborhood Event Everybody EnjoysSeptember 14 is the day of Saint Paul’s annual Selby Avenue Jazz Fest. The event has always featured great local talent representing many forms of Jazz, and with a great vibe as well. Phil Nusbaum talked to 2 event organizers, Mychael Wright and David Bonko about selecting talent. Jamecia Bennett is a local singer who has taken off in popularity, so Phil first asked Mychal if that selection was a no brainer.
2024-09-1008 min
Jazz88Global Jazz Collegium Celebrates New CD Saturday August 4 at the Metronome in St PaulGlobal Jazz Collegium releases its new CD, 6:30 Saturday night August 4 at the Metrodome in Saint Paul. The CD is called Labyrinth and is centered on fusion jazz, with a mix of older music and originals. Pavel Jany plays the guitar and leads Global jazz Collegium, He talked to Phil Nusbaum about the piece opening the CD.
2024-07-2808 min
Jazz88Nyttu Chongo Performs his Jazz Bantu at the Ordway in Saint Paul this Friday EveningNyttu Chongo is a Minnesotan who performs a style called Jazz Bantu. The style combines music learned in Mozambique on African instruments with western classical instruments. Nyttu’s ensemble performs this Friday at the Ordway Theater in Saint Paul at 7:30pm. In a conversation with Phil Nusbaum, Nyttu talked about many facets of his music, including his method of composing.
2024-07-2308 min
Jazz88Greg Bryant of Concurrence Shares the Concept and Spirit of their New Album "Indivisible"Bassist Greg Bryant is one half of the jazz duo Concurrence. On their new album, Indivisible, he and pianist Paul Horton use an entire toolbox of expression to tell the story of the impact of I-40 on Black neighborhoods in Nashville. Bryant, who hails from Nashville, discussed how he and Horton came to tell this story and how the music balances the shameful details of the highway and the optimistic and resilient response from the Black community in Nashville. Photo Credit: Giovanni Rodriguez
2024-07-1617 min
Jazz88Accordo Plays String Ensemble Music with Passion and VirtuosityAccordo is a chamber music string ensemble composed of present and former members of the St Paul Chamber Orchestra and Minnesota Orchestra. Members of the group are busy with other musical projects. But Accordo helps them fulfill important musical goals. Violinist Steven Copes spoke with Phil Nusbaum.
2024-06-3008 min
Jazz88Queen Drea, Pavielle and Tish Jones Celebrate Their Decades Long Bond And Prepare for a Juneteenth CelebrationIn anticipation of their Courtyard Concert appearance at MIA on Thursday, June 20 Sean McPherson connected with artists Queen Drea, Pavielle and Tish Jones. In addition to hailing from the same part of Saint Paul (Rondo), Jones, Queen Drea and Pavielle have served as "co-conspirators" for decades at this point. Throughout the conversation the themes of Black liberation and shared history came to the fore. The interview also features portions of songs from Pavielle and Queen Drea.
2024-06-1523 min
Jazz88Joe Lovano Brings His Quartet to the Twin Cities Jazz FestivalJoe Lovano connected with Sean McPherson from Jazz88 in anticipation of his performance at the Twin Cities Jazz Festival on Saturday June 22. Lovano and McPherson discussed Lovano's long running quartet, his legendary role in the Paul Motian Trio alongside Bill Frisell and Lovano's many great experiences in the Twin Cities including a show with the Woody Herman Orchestra back in the 1970s.
2024-06-1009 min
Jazz88Wayne Anthony Recreates Frank Sinatra Music in a 1940s Setting, Saturday May 24 in Saint PaulWhen Wayne Anthony does Sinatra with an 8-piece ensemble, the evening is what Wayne says it is: Ultimate Sinatra. Wayne plus ensemble brings an evening of music, dance and cocktails to the Commodore in Saint Paul Friday May 24. Pianist Steven C Anderson performs for cocktails from 6 till 7, and then it’s Ultimate Sinatra till 10. Wayne talked to Phil Nusbaum, Phil first asked about Frank Sinatra song “You Make Me Feel So Young.”
2024-05-2108 min
Jazz88Taiko Drumming This Sunday at the Ordway in Saint PaulTaiko Arts Midwest stages concerts that bring together international and Twin Cities Taiko drummers. The organization’s performing group, Enso Daiko, takes the stage at the Ordway theater, Sunday May 12 at 7pm. In a conversation with Jennifer Weir, executive director of Taiko Arts Midwest, related how Taiko is more than power and rhythm.
2024-05-0708 min
Jazz88The Amazing Musical Education of John PizzarelliGuitarist and singer John Pizzarelli is from an illustrious jazz family. His father was the legendary guitarist Bucky Pizzarelli and John grew up around jazz legends like Benny Goodman, Zoot Sims, Les Paul and Slam Stewart. Pizzarrelli discusses his recent album "Stage and Screen," his current trio, and his upcoming performances with JazzMn Orchestra and with his trio at the Dakota May 11th and 12th.
2024-05-0318 min
Jazz88History Theater and Theater Mu Present Musical about the Swing Era Kim Loo SistersIn the 1930s, the Kim loo Sisters of Minneapolis was a harmony singing force. From May 4 through the 26th, St Paul’s History Theater in co-production with Theater Mu present “Blended Harmony: The Kim Loo Sisters. The production tracks the career of the Kim Loo sisters, which included movies, USO appearances overseas, and other big stages. When for the show’s director and Theater Mu artistic director Lily Tung Crystal talked to Phil Nusbaum, Blended Harmony: The Kim Loo Sisters was in the final stages of rehearsal. Phil asked Lily about her work as the show’s director.
2024-04-2708 min
Jazz88Anthony Cox Discusses the Legacy of Charles Mingus and Paul Chambers on Their Shared BirthdayBassist Anthony Cox joined Jazz88's Sean McPherson to discuss Charles Mingus and Paul Chambers on their birthday (April 22). As a fellow bass player Cox shared the influence these icons of the instrument had on his development as a bass player, including how catching a live performance from Charles Mingus shaped Cox's decision to pursue music as a career.
2024-04-2319 min
Jazz88Singer Thomasina Petrus Joins the Selby Avenue Big Band for Two Big ShowsTom Wells, leader of the Selby Avenue Brass Band first met singer Thomasina Petrus when she was studying and he was teaching at North Community High School in Minneapolis. Thomasina sings with the Selby Avenue Brass Band at noon, Thursday April 25 at Landmark Center in St Paul, and from 4:30 till 6 Saturday April 27 at Crooner’s Supper Club in Fridley. When Tom and Thomasina talked with Phil Nusbaum, Tom first addressed why he always know Thomasina would be a good fit with the brass band.
2024-04-2108 min
Jazz88Aaron Diehl: Building on the Legacy of John Lewis and Third Stream MusicJazz88's Peter Solomon spoke with pianist Aaron Diehl about his recent recording of Mary Lou Williams' "Zodiac Suite," the influence of pianist and composer John Lewis, and his upcoming performance of music by Lewis, Gunther Schuller and others with members of the Chamber Music Society of Minnesota Sunday, April 7th at Sundin Hall on the campus of Hamline University in St. Paul..
2024-04-0414 min
Jazz88A Visit with Jennifer Grimm and Joe CruzSinger-Composer Jennifer Grimm and her husband and musical partner, Joe Cruz, visited with Jazz88's Peter Solomon on the Morning Show. Jennifer performed two originals - "Half a Man" and "I Miss Minneapolis/St. Paul" and did a short version of "Our Love Is Here to Stay." She talked about her unusual musical background (she grew up singing in a family variety show act) and about her approach to writing songs.
2024-03-1520 min
Jazz88The Dregs Enliven St Patrick’s Weekend at the Metronome in Saint PaulThe Dregs occupy a singular musical niche: Band members backgrounds are varied, but together, the group sings and plays twisted versions of songs, to the delight of audiences in Minnesota and elsewhere. The Dregs take the stage at the Metronome in Saint Paul, Saint Patrick’s Weekend, Saturday and Sunday March 16 and 17. When Tim and Molly of the Dregs got together with Phil Nusbaum, first they talked about the history of the Dregs.
2024-03-1008 min
Jazz88"Whatever We Were Able to Conjure in that Moment is a Part of Us" - deVon Russell Gray, Davu Seru and Nathan Hanson Revisit Their 2020 Album "We Sick"In the summer of 2020 deVon Russell Gray, Nathan Hanson and Davu Seru recorded the album "We Sick" in a church in Saint Paul that was available due to the COVID pandemic. The tumult of the summer of 2020 showed up in all sorts of ways on the spontaneously composed recordings. Since the 2022 release of the album, enthusiasm for the work of Gray, Hanson and Seru has increased and they are preparing for another performance Thursday February 29 at Berlin in Minneapolis. Sean McPherson caught up with the group to find out how their music is developing.
2024-02-2908 min
Jazz88Ancia Saxophone Quartet Showcases its New CD in Upcoming PerformancesThe Ancia Saxophone Quartet showcases its new CD in upcoming performances. This Wednesday, February 22, the show is at 12 noon, at Landmark Center in Saint Paul, and sponsored by the Shubert Club. Next Friday, the performance is at Westminster Hall in Minneapolis at 12 noon. Joan Hutton of the Ancia Saxophone Quartet talked with Phil Nusbaum about the group, and about one of Ancia’s chief concerns: Supporting living composers.
2024-02-2008 min
Jazz88Adam Levy Brings His New Sounds to metroNOME in St. PaulAdam Levy is a career guitar player who has shared stages and recording studios with Norah Jones, Tracy Chapman, Meshell Ndegeocello and more. Listen to find out more about Levy's new album "Spry" and his approach to writing and playing.
2024-02-0212 min
Jazz88"It Was Done to Us and We're Passing it On" - The Sit In Series Wants To Pass Their Experience On To The Next GenerationThe Sit In Series is a new program sponsored by the Minnesota Hard Bop Collective. The Sit In Series aims to provide a formal opportunity for middle school to college aged musicians to sit in or perform with professional musicians. Lead mentors Dale Alexander (piano) and Omar Abdulkarim (trumpeter) alongside mentee Bernadette Brownrigg Spray (vocals) stopped by the Afternoon Cruise to chat about the series. The next event is on Sunday February 4 at 6:30 at MetroNOME in St. Paul.
2024-02-0109 min
Jazz88Steve Kenny Plays Coltrane Tribute at KJ's HideawayJazz88's Peter Solomon spoke with Trumpeter Steve Kenny, who curates the jazz at K.J.'s Hideaway. He brings his quintet to the St. Paul venue Saturday, February 3rd to celebrate the music of John Coltrane. This will be the 100th performance in the ongoing jazz series that Kenny has curated over the past two years.
2024-01-3005 min
Jazz88Making the Internet Funkier One Minute At a Time - Saint Paul Peterson on Funk FridaysSaint Paul Peterson is a funk ambassador, gifted vocalist, bassist and a curator of the Funk Friday series. He’s been a member of the Family and The Time and he’s been a recognized fixture in the music world on an international level for decades. Saint Paul is bringing his online series, Funk Friday, onto the stage on Friday at the Green Room in Minneapolis. Jazz88 is sponsoring the event and broadcasting portions of it on the air. Check out this interview to get an overview of the Funk Friday series and learn what's happening on stage on Friday.
2024-01-1109 min
Jazz88Kaviyesh Kaviraj Celebrates Birthday with Gig at KJ's HideawayMinneapolis-based pianist and composer spoke with Jazz88's Peter Solomon ahead of his December 30th birthday celebration at KJ's Hideaway in St. Paul. (Photo by Evin Rodriguez-Sosa)
2023-12-2708 min
Jazz88Rhythmically Speaking Takes Guaraldi to the Stage Once Again with "Chill"Jazz 88's Peter Solomon spoke with Erinn Liebhard, director of the St. Paul based dance troupe Rhythmically Speaking about their upcoming show "Chill," running Dec. 1 -3 at Amsterdam Bar & Hall in St. Paul, and featuring original choreography to a live jazz performance of Vince Guaraldi's score for A Charlie Brown Christmas. (Image by Jillian Bell).
2023-11-2809 min
Jazz88Amy Schendel and Mary Larew on "Music Across Minnesota" and the SPCMJazz88's Peter Solomon speaks with Amy Schendel and Mary Larew from the St. Paul Conservatory of Music about "Music Across Minnesota" and other musical outreach programs.
2023-10-2608 min
Jazz88Boom Island String Quartet Presents Hallowe’en show with Unexpected Music Next Saturday at the MetronomeWhen you see a performance by the Boom Island String Quartet, you expect music from unusual sources and frequently, the presentation is thematic. That is certainly the case on Saturday, October 28 when the quartet plays its Hallowe’en show, 3pm at the Metronome in Saint Paul. Alexandria Mueller leads the group. In her conversation with Phil Nusbaum, she first addressed the group’s history.
2023-10-2408 min
Jazz88Singer-Songwriter Skarlett Woods Celebrates New CD Next Saturday NightSkarlett Woods, Brainerd singer-songwriter celebrates her new CD, Letters To The West, next Saturday night at Ginkgo’s in Saint Paul. In her writing, Skarlett turns her attention to intimacy as well as big societal issues. When she talked about her work with Phil Nusbaum, Skarlett first talked about one of her romantic songs.
2023-10-1708 min
Jazz88Stablemates Bring Decades of Piano Trio Experience to the Metronome in Saint PaulStablemates is a Twin Cities Piano Trio. The group plays at the Metronome in Saint Paul, Thursday October 12 at 7:00 PM. When Phil Nusbaum met up with the trio, it was running through some repertoire.
2023-10-0808 min
Jazz88Scott Keever Releases New CD at Celtic Junction October 21Scott Keever issues his second CD of original guitar music at Celtic Junction in Saint Paul Saturday night October 21. There will be an opening set by guitarist Phil Heywood. Scott has interests in many world music styles, but one of his strongest groundings is the work of fellow Minnesota Leo Kotke. In a conversation with Phil Nusbaum, Scott explains his feeling for the Kotke style.
2023-10-0308 min
Jazz88"It Gives Me a New Passion" - Dorothy Doring Becomes a SongwriterDorothy Doring has added a new chapter to the long story of her life as a musician. In the past couple years Dorothy Doring has started writing songs and she's ready to share them with the world. She'll be playing at Metronome Brewery in St. Paul on Saturday alongside her host and opening act Trish Sisson.
2023-09-2706 min
Jazz88Najee is Honored to Return to the Twin CitiesGrammy nominated artist Najee took the time to connect with Jazz88's Patty Peterson in advance of his headlining show on Saturday, September 9 at the Selby Avenue Jazz Festival. Najee discussed his time touring and recording with Prince, his "COVID" record and he went over the details for the stellar band he's bringing to St. Paul this weekend.
2023-09-0607 min
Jazz88Award Winning High School Jazz Band with Big Show at the Metronome in Saint PaulThey’re calling themselves the Will Aldrich quintet, with Will and Gabe Hartnett playing saxophones, Rafi Karpowitz on the piano, Callum Schultz on the bass, and drummer Ataa Mensah. The group’s flair for both reimagining and composing jazz led it to an award at the Eau Claire Jazz festival. The Quintet’s next appearance is at the Metronome in Saint Paul, Wednesday June 21 at 8PM. When Phil Nusbaum got together with Will Aldrich, Will addressed the group’s treatment of Wayne Shorter’s Speak No Evil.
2023-06-1808 min
Jazz88Terrace Martin Visits Jazz88 to Discuss his Times in the Twin Cities and his Upcoming Shows at The DakotaCelebrated producer and saxophonist Terrace Martin hopped onto a ZOOM with Sean from the Afternoon Cruise to discuss his upcoming run of shows at the Dakota. During the conversation Martin shared his deep knowledge of the Twin Cities music scene, including gracing the stage of Arnellia's in St. Paul and taking in a performance at JT's Jazz Implosion at the Turf Club.
2023-05-2507 min
Jazz88Chadwick 'Niles' Phillips Visits Jazz88 To Discuss the Upcoming ComMUSICation Concert at The OrdwayChadwick 'Niles' Phillips stopped by the studio to discuss his involvement with ComMUSICation, a program founded in 2013 to provide high-quality afterschool music programs accessible to youth. The group is celebrating their 10th anniversary on Sunday May 21 at the Ordway in St. Paul.
2023-05-1905 min
Jazz88Patrick Adkins Quartet Performs Music Inspired by Keith Jarrett’s American Quartet This Saturday at KJ’s Hideaway in St PaulPianist Patrick Adkins’ Quartet takes inspiration from Keith Jarrett’s American Quartet. That includes covers as well or original music that Patrick writes. The group performs at an 8PM show at KJ’s Hideaway in St Paul, Saturday April 29. In a conversation with Phil Nusbaum, Patrick talked about the qualities of the American quartet that guide his group’s playing.
2023-04-2508 min
Jazz88Katia Cardenas Headlines this Saturday Night at KJ’s Hideaway in Saint PaulKatia Cardenas Features Her New Songs 9:30 PM this Saturday Night at KJ’s Hideaway in Saint Paul. In a recent conversation with Phil Nusbaum, Katia addressed how recent changes in her life are reflected in her songwriting.
2023-03-1408 min
Jazz88Rachael Price Joins the Afternoon CruiseRachael Price hosted Sean McPherson from the Afternoon Cruise at the Palace Theatre in St. Paul to chat about her new release with guitarist composer VIlray "I Love a Love Song".
2023-01-2708 min
Jazz88Daniel Volovets The Great Combiner of Musical Styles on the Guitar, in Concert at the Metronome in St Paul on Wed January 4Daniel Volovets is a local guitarist who composes and also re-imagines the work of others. You can catch him at the Metronome Brewery in Saint Paul this Wednesday, January 4 at 7PM. When Daniel talked to Phil Nusbaum, Daniel first addressed his love of arranging.
2022-12-1808 min
Jazz88Curtis and Loretta’s CD Release Event Saturday November 19 at Ginkgo Coffee in Saint PaulFor Curtis and Loretta, the Covid Pandemic was a time for reflection and composing new songs. Many of the songs are on the new CD, Lift The World. The duet celebrates the CD at an event at the Ginkgo in Saint Pau Saturday November 19 at 8PM. When Curtis and Loretta talked to Phil Nusbaum, Loretta spoke of the title song, Lift the World.
2022-11-1308 min
Jazz88Aaron Kerr’s New Opera Performed on November 18 Captures the Spirit of the Times of the Kennedy Assassination and Nixon ResignationAaron Kerr’s new opera captures the spirit of the times of the assassination of President Kennedy and resignation of President Nixon. Inspired by TV news copy saved over the decades, the work is called Kennedy Nixon UPI AP. It’ll be staged at Zion Lutheran Church in St Paul, Friday November 18 at 7PM. When Aaron talked to Phil Nusbaum about this most unusual opera which involves TV news copy, a narrator and singing, he said that there was a family connection with the UPI and AP TV news copy.
2022-11-0808 min
Jazz88Ticket to Brasil Performs Twice This Coming WeekendFor almost twenty-five years, Ticket to Brasil has been putting fresh spins on Brazilian music. The 6-piece plays at Crooners this Friday at 4PM, and the Bossa Nova trio this Sunday at the Metronome in St Paul at 4PM. Till now, when Ticket to Brasil has performed original music, they have been the work of leader Pavel Jany. But Pavel tells Phil Nusbaum that the singer, Natania Kamin, has become a songwriter.
2022-11-0108 min
Jazz88Charlie Maguire Celebrates 50 Years of Songwriting with a Concert at the Ginko Coffee House in St PaulCharlie Maguire has been writing songs he sings in performances for a half century. He specializes in songs about working people and their work. This Saturday night at 8 PM at the Ginkgo Coffee House in St Paul, Charlie will sing a program of some of his finest. When Charlie sat down with Phil Nusbaum, Charlie first addressed how he got started.
2022-09-1308 min
Jazz88Imminent Standards Trio Celebrates New CD Saturday night at KJ’s HideawayAs the name implies, The Imminent Standards play standards. But of course they put their own twists on the tunes. Catch the Imminent Standards Saturday night at 8PM at KJ’s Hideaway in Saint Paul. Trombonist JC Sanford is the group’s leader. In a conversation with Phil Nusbaum, JC addressed providing musical variety.
2022-08-2308 min
Jazz88Eclectic Duet Mixes Rock, Classical and Other Genres at Studio Z in Saint Paul Next Saturday NightMary Overlie and Geoffrey Taylor have different types of musical backgrounds, but their family connection brings them together. Theirs is a mix of lyric songs and instrumental playing that defies categorization, yet does not seem far out. The duet is called Augmeanted, and it performs this Saturday at 7PM at Studio Z in Saint Paul. When Mary talked to Phil Nusbaum, she talked about how Augmeanted formed.
2022-08-1608 min
Jazz88Red Planet Performs its Improvisational Jazz at the Metronome in Saint Paul, Tuesday August 2Red Planet is composed of three great improvisers, drummer Jay Epstein, bassist Chris Bates and electric guitarist Dean Magraw. The Trio performs at 7PM this coming Tuesday at the Metronome, located across the street from the north side of St Paul’s Farmer’s Market. In a conversation with Phil Nusbaum, Dean told Phil Nusbaum of the inspiration for forming the group.
2022-07-3108 min
Jazz88No Room For Squares Performs All Kinds of Bop This Saturday at KJs Hideaway in Saint PaulNo Room For Squares is a be-bop era tune originally released by iconic tenor saxophone Hank Mobley. And No Room For Squares is also the name of the local be-bop band led by drummer Bill Stieger. The group plays at 8PM this Saturday at KJ’s Hideaway in Saint Paul. When Bill talked to Phil Nusbaum, Bill explained why No Room For Squares is the name of the band.
2022-07-1908 min
Jazz88Celebrating Juneteenth in St Paul with YWCAGaye Adams Massey, CEO of YWCA St. Paul takes about highlights for the whole family during their Juneteenth Celebration.
2022-06-1504 min
Jazz88Saint Paul’s Alicia Thao Sings of Personal Evolution and Family HistoryBeing awarded a prestigious Cedar Commission to create new songs was validating for 20-something Alicia Thao. But in truth she’s been honing her craft since she was a young teenager. On Wednesday May 25, Alicia is opening for No No Boy at the Cedar Cultural Center in Minneapolis. When Alicia spoke with Phil Nusbaum, she talked about why she started writing songs.
2022-05-2208 min
Jazz88Kendra Glenn the Song Embellisher Comes to KJ’s Hideaway in Saint Paul This FridayKendra Glenn plays KJ’s Hideaway in Saint Paul This Friday at 6:30. As a kid in Chicago, Kendra developed the chops to do what she does today: When she gets a song, she molds it and makes it her own. In a recent interview, Kendra told Phil Nusbaum about her process.
2022-05-0308 min
Jazz88Beasley’s Big Band Plays for Swing Dancers and Music Lovers Next Thursday Night at The Wabasha Street CavesBeasley’s Big Band is Back at its pre-pandemic spot, the Wabasha Street Caves in Saint Paul. Beasley’s Big Band plays every third Thursday at the caves, and that includes this coming Thursday, April 14. Beasley’s Big Band manager Jim Hoar had a conversation with Phil Nusbaum, and first they talked about the stylistic footprint of the band.
2022-04-1008 min
Jazz88Peter Vircks Quintet at CJ’s in Saint Paul This Saturday NightPeter Vircks does many kinds of playing on the saxophone. When he talked with Phil Nusbaum, the two touched on some of Peter’s varied approaches. The Peter Vircks Quintet performs at KJs Hideaway in Saint Paul, Friday April 9 from 9;30 till 11:30 PM. Peter’s group plays a lot of original music, but Peter also likes to play romantic songs, like Burt Bacharach’s Close to You, which Peter recorded with a group known as Midnight Love.
2022-04-0308 min
Jazz88Hank Thunander Performs for an Early New Year’s Eve Party at the Rosetown Legion in RosevilleHank Thunander of Saint Paul is an accordion player’s accordionist. After about 70 of playing, he knows thousands of songs and tunes and plays solo or with a group, seemingly all the time. Hank is at the center of the early New Year’s party at the Rosetown Legion in St Paul, from 11:30 AM till 4 PM on Dec 31. Hank talked to Phil Nusbaum, and Phil first asked how he constructed a playlist for a typical show.
2021-12-2608 min
Jazz88Crooners’ Presents the Story of the Rondo Neighborhood through Song on Tuesday November 30Rondo 56 tells how the Rondo neighborhood in Saint Paul was changed when Interstate 94 was built right through it. Rondo 56 includes music by a combination of T Michael Rampbo, Thomassina Petra, Charmin Michelle and Dan Chouinard. Phil Nusbaum went to a rehearsal of the group and talked to Dan and T Michael. Dan explained how interstate construction was set in motion.
2021-11-2307 min
Jazz88After A Long Wait, Zeitgeist Presents The Work of Frederick Shefsky At Its Early Music FestivalIt was a long wait, but Zeitgeist presents its early music festival featuring the work of Frederick Shefsky this Friday and Saturday night at 7:30 at Studio Z in Saint Paul. Zeitgeist percussionist Heather Barringer spoke with Phil Nusbaum about the production, and about the composer, Frederick Shefsky.
2021-11-1608 min
Jazz88Pianist Kiefer Performs In-Studio at Jazz88California based Kiefer joins Justus Sanchez at Jazz88 for an in-studio performance and interview. Kiefer, who gained acclaim for optimistic beat-based jazz, released his latest album "When There's Love Around" in 2021. The new album is a departure from his previous works. He has switched out the beats for a full band. He and his band we're touring this fall and after a stop at the Fine Line on October 20th, they stopped into KBEM.
2021-11-1225 min
Jazz88Simple Search For Truth, PK Mayo’s New CD is Stylistically VariedPK Mayo, aka Paul Mayasich continues his tradition of creating music in multiple styles on his new CD, entitled Simple Search for Truth. In Mayo’s conversation with Phil Nusbaum, Paul talked about some of the CD songs.
2021-10-2408 min
Jazz88Nineteenth Annual Selby Avenue Jazz Fest Is Live This SaturdayThe Selby Avenue Jazz Fest is live, Saturday September 11 from 11 AM till 7:30 PM. As usual, Michael Wright, owner of the Golden Thyme Coffee and Cafe, and David Bonko combine to produce it. This year, the headliner is International artist Nachito Herrera from Saint Paul. In a conversation with Phil Nusbaum, Michael addressed how the fest got Nachito to perform.
2021-09-0708 min
Jazz88Salsa del Soul Stands Where Musical Virtuosity Meets Great DancingSalsa is where musical virtuosity meets great dancing. Shai Hayo plays timbales and leads this Minneapolis/Saint Paul-based band. He spoke with Phil Nusbaum about the approach taken by Salsa del Soul.
2021-08-2908 minJazz88LSS Daily Living: Celebrating Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.Today is Martin Luther King Jr. Day, a day to honor the Civil Rights leader who used nonviolence to dismantle racism, work for justice and create racial equity in our community. Paul Slack, a social justice advocate for Lutheran Social Service shares his reflections about this day, and invites us to consider ways we can continue the important work of Dr. King.
2021-01-1811 minJazz88COVID-19 and Mental HealthDr. Peter Zelles is a clinical psychologist in St. Paul. He talks about COVID-19 and mental health.
2021-01-1310 min
Jazz88Zeitgeist New Music Ensemble Performs Modern Version of an Old American Murder BalladZeitgeist’s latest work is a composition commissioned to banjoist Paul Elwood, 44 Smokeless. It’s a reimagining of the American Murder ballad, Little Sadie. Phil Nusbaum spoke with Paul and to the percussionist for Zeitgeist, Heather Barringer. Heather said that the ensemble did not really know what to expect of Paul’s finished piece.
2021-01-1008 min
Jazz88Paul Metsa Re-Releases 1992 Recordings that are Just as Relevant in 2020Paul Metsa is a defining Minneapolis musician of this generation. Reflecting on his recording career, Paul believes that a 1992 project called Whistling Past the Graveyard is one of his finest. So he is re-releasing it with bonus tracks and a re-take on one of the songs, Slow Justice. In a conversation with Phil Nusbaum, Paul talked about why Whistling Past the Graveyard is still relevant in 2020.
2020-11-2908 min