Rising Harlem Vocalist Alicia Waller on Debut Album Louder Then & Her Career

Welcome to a new edition of the Neon Jazz Interview Series. On this episode, we talk with emerging Harlem-based jazz and soul vocalist Alicia Waller.

We caught up with Alicia to dive into her debut album Louder Then, a dynamic project that blends jazz, soul, and R&B into a deeply expressive and modern sound.

Co-produced by Marcos Varela—known for his work with the Mingus Big Band, Billy Hart, and Tyshawn Sorey—the album showcases Alicia’s evolution as an artist.

Trained in opera’s bel canto tradition, she now channels that technique into vernacular Black American music, creating a lush, dreamlike vocal style paired with powerful contemporary soul energy.

Following her 2020 EP Some Hidden Treasure, Alicia continues to carve out a compelling voice in today’s jazz landscape.

In this conversation, we explore her journey, influences, creative process, and the making of Louder Then.

Enjoy this powerful and soulful story.

🎶 Get the album & more:
https://www.instagram.com/aliciawaller.music/

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Jazz Guitar Legend Mitch Dalton on Out of the Shadows & His Career

Welcome to a new edition of the Neon Jazz Interview Series. On this episode, we talk with veteran British jazz guitarist Mitch Dalton.

Known as one of the U.K.’s most in-demand studio musicians, Mitch has built a remarkable career working alongside legends like Herbie Hancock, Ella Fitzgerald, Wayne Shorter, Peggy Lee, and Quincy Jones.

We caught up with him just outside London to talk about his 2026 album Out of the Shadows, a project that sees this longtime sideman finally stepping into the spotlight as a solo artist.

Drawing from decades of session work and jazz performance, Out of the Shadows reflects Mitch’s deep love of jazz, rich musical history, and masterful guitar voice.

In this conversation, we explore his journey through the music industry, stories behind working with legends, and what it means to take center stage after years behind the scenes.

Dig this fascinating ride through the world of jazz.

🎶 Listen to the album:
https://music.apple.com/us/album/out-of-the-shadows/1833317822

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Social Psychologist Dr. Andre Walton on Creativity & Beating Burnout

Welcome to a new edition of the Famous Interviews with Joe Dimino series. On this episode, we talk with distinguished thought leader, renowned social psychologist, and musician Dr. Andre Walton.

With over 20 years of groundbreaking research, Dr. Walton has reshaped how organizations understand and harness creativity—especially when it comes to building innovative environments and addressing burnout, anxiety, and stress.

As a Visiting Professor of Creativity and Entrepreneurship at Newport Business School, he has developed executive programs and delivered keynotes and workshops for global institutions like the Smithsonian Institution, Virgin Group, Lloyds Bank, and the Welsh Government.

Beyond academia and leadership, Dr. Walton is also a jazz flutist—bringing creativity to life through music as well as research and practice.

In this conversation, we explore creativity as a tool for innovation, how to detect and resolve burnout, and why creative thinking is essential in today’s fast-changing world.

Enjoy this inspiring and insightful interview.

🔗 Learn more:
https://www.hiredrandre.com/

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Audrey Ochoa Interview – The Sorceress (2026), Jazz, Pop & Electronica Fusion

Welcome to a new edition of the Neon Jazz Interview Series. On this episode, we talk with Canadian jazz trombonist, vocalist, and composer Audrey Ochoa.

We caught up with her to dive into her 2026 album The Sorceress, a vibrant fusion of jazz, electronica, swing, and pop that reflects the many influences shaping her evolving sound.

Having first connected during the uncertainty of 2020, Audrey has since become a regular voice on Neon Jazz—continuing to push boundaries and redefine her artistic identity.

Each track on The Sorceress blends improvisation with infectious hooks and lush harmonies, creating music that feels both familiar and refreshingly new.

In this conversation, we explore her transformation as an artist, the realities of today’s world, touring life, and the creative process behind this dynamic new release.

Dig this interview.

🎶 Get the album:
https://audreyochoa.bandcamp.com/album/the-sorceress

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Caroline Davis Interview – Fallows (2026), Saxophone & Modern Jazz Innovation

Welcome to a new edition of the Neon Jazz Interview Series. On this episode, we talk with NYC-based jazz saxophonist and composer Caroline Davis.

We caught up with her to discuss her 2026 album Fallows, along with her evolving creative process, upcoming tour, and what it means to make music in modern America.

On this deeply personal and exploratory release, Caroline presents her debut solo work for saxophone and electronics—blending shadowed beauty with bold, subterranean textures across 12 immersive tracks. Her music invites listeners into a space where time softens, and the boundaries between sound, emotion, and imagination dissolve.

Known for pushing the boundaries of jazz and improvisation, Caroline continues to shape a unique voice that bridges tradition with experimentation.

In this conversation, we explore the inspiration behind Fallows, her artistic philosophy, and the journey of bringing this project to life.

Always great to catch up with her—dig this interview.

🎶 Get the album:
https://carolinedavismusic.bandcamp.com/album/fallows

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Jazz Drummer John Clay on His Career & Leading His First Album About Time (2026)

Welcome to a new edition of the Neon Jazz Interview Series. On this episode, we talk with NYC-based veteran drummer, in-demand musician, and jazz leader John Clay.

We caught up with John to discuss his first album as a leader, About Time (2026), along with his long and evolving journey through the world of jazz.

Known for his creativity, fluid rhythmic feel, and ability to move seamlessly across musical styles, John has built a reputation as a go-to drummer on the New York scene. Originally from Louisville, he began playing in local bands at just 13 years old before relocating to New York City at 25—where he’s worked alongside some of the best in the business.

After years of supporting other artists, John steps into the spotlight with About Time, marking a major milestone as a bandleader and creative force.

In this conversation, we dive into his musical roots, artistic growth, and what it means to finally lead the charge.

🥁 Get the album & more:
https://johnclaymusic.com/about-time/

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LehCats Interview – Karen & Norbert Stachel on Live at the Breakroom (2026)

Welcome to a new edition of the Neon Jazz Interview Series. On this episode, we talk with jazz couple and dynamic duo LehCats—featuring Karen Stachel and Norbert Stachel.

We caught up with them to discuss their 2026 album Live at the Breakroom, recorded with legendary percussionist Giovanni Hidalgo.

Norbert, a versatile saxophonist and multi-woodwind player, is known for his unique voice as both a soloist and ensemble musician across genres. Karen, a celebrated flutist and composer, blends innovation with deep roots in straight-ahead jazz—creating a sound that is both fresh and grounded.

Together as LehCats, they bring a powerful musical connection and chemistry that shines through in every performance.

In this interview, we explore their journey, creative process, and the story behind their latest release.

🎶 Get the album:
https://lehcats.com/music

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