Songs & Stories

After five decades as jazz's best-kept secret, multi-instrumentalist Roger Glenn steps into the spotlight with his first solo album in 50 years. In this episode of Backstage Bay Area, host Steve Roby sits down with the son of jazz royalty to discuss Latin jazz, life lessons from legends, and why 2025 was finally the right time to share his story. Episode HighlightsGrowing Up in Jazz Royalty: Roger shares stories of his father, Tyree Glenn, and the legendary musicians who shaped his musical education—from Count Basie's Joe Jones to Miles Davis's Winton KellyThe Great Day in Harlem: Roger reveals he skipped the iconic 1958 photo shoot, only to later perform with many of those same jazz giants, including Mary Lou Williams18 Instruments and Counting: How Roger became a multi-instrumental wizard, mastering everything from flute to vibraphoneThe 50-Year Wait: Why COVID, economic downturns, and Grammy category eliminations delayed the release of "My Latin Heart"Cultural Fusion: The deep meaning behind tracks like "Zambos Mambo" and "Congo Square," exploring the African and European roots of American musicBeyond Music: Roger's parallel passions as a multi-engine pilot, helicopter pilot, and sailor—and how they inspire his compositionsFeatured TracksZambos MamboShowcasing Roger's incredible flute work (currently charting on Jazz Week)Congo SquareA tribute to cultural fusion featuring Roger's vibraphone masteryAll music used on the podcast was supplied by the musicians and used with there permissionUpcoming ShowsBach Dancing and Dynamite Society - Half Moon BaySunday, March 8th at 4:30 PMFeaturing special guest Ray Obito on guitar

Guest: Jack West In this episode, host Steve Roby welcomes guitarist, composer, and inventor Jack West, whose unique sound NPR once described as "a whole new sub-genre of jazz." After more than two decades away from the recording studio, Jack returns with two major projects: the stunning new album Guitars on Life (a duet collaboration with Walter Strauss) and Essential Curvature, a retrospective compilation of his best work from the 1990s and 2000s. Episode Highlights: Jack discusses his musical roots in rural Alabama and his decision in 1993 to leave rock bands and focus exclusively on acoustic guitarThe story behind his collaboration with Walter Strauss and how they wrote most of Guitars on Life in just one weekJack's innovative "acoustic spank" technique, which allows him to simultaneously play guitar, bass, and percussionHis invention of a specialized thumb pick that enables rapid-fire triplet strikes in both directionsThe eco-friendly PET plastic vinyl alternative used for the Guitars on Life releaseA preview of his upcoming Gliss Guitar - a revolutionary acoustic guitar with motorized pitch control on every string Music Featured: "More Guitar" from Guitars on Life"Double Bounce" from Guitars on LifeAll music featured in this episode was supplied by Jack West and used with his permission. Upcoming Show:Catch Jack West live at the Freight & Salvage in Berkeley on Thursday, February 26th at 8:00 PM for a special double bill featuring: The Jack West Slide Guitar Ensemble (featuring Josh Jones on drums, Gary Brown on bass, and Lalo Crane on marimba)The Walter Strauss & Jack West acoustic guitar duoTickets and more information: https://secure.thefreight.org/15495/15496-jack-west-walter-strauss-260226 Learn More:Visit Jack West's official website: https://www.jackwestguitar.com 

Show Notes:Bassist and composer Lisa Mezzacappa joins host Steve Roby to discuss her latest project, the flexible ensemble Lisa Mezzacappa Five-ish, and their new album Otherworldly. For over two decades, Lisa has been a cornerstone of the Bay Area's experimental jazz scene, crafting adventurous music inspired by speculative fiction, cosmic landscapes, and the art of spontaneous collaboration. In this episode, Lisa reveals how her sextet (yes, it's called Five-ish) came together, blending longtime collaborators such as saxophonist Aaron Bennett and drummer Jordan Glenn with newer voices, including oboist Kyle Bruckman and vibraphonist Mark Clifford. She discusses her unique compositional approach—writing for improvisers as individuals rather than as a uniform ensemble—and how she translates literary and ecological concepts into sonic terrain.Lisa also shares insights into the album's standout tracks, including the urgent opener "Life is Running Out" and the expansive closer "The Dream, the Reality." She explains the concept of "tight looseness"—the sweet spot where precision meets spontaneity—and what audiences can expect from her upcoming performances at SF Jazz's intimate Joe Henderson Lab.Plus, Lisa reveals she's just completed an ambitious project: 12 album releases in 12 months on her own Queen Bee Records label.Featured Music:"Life is Running Out" by Lisa Mezzacappa Five-ish"The Dream, the Reality" by Lisa Mezzacappa Five-ishAll music was supplied by the artist and used with their permission. Show Info & Links:Upcoming Performance:Lisa Mezzacappa Five-ish at the Joe Henderson Lab, SF JazzSunday, February 22nd | Two shows: 6:00 PM & 7:30 PMDoors open 30 minutes before showtime (arrive early for best seating—general admission)Tickets: sfjazz.org More Information:Lisa Mezzacappa's website: lisamezzacappa.comQueen Bee Records on Bandcamp: queenbeerecords.bandcamp.comAlbum: Otherworldly by Lisa Mezzacappa Five-ish (available now) Backstage Bay Area is your window into the vibrant arts and music scene of the San Francisco Bay Area. Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts.

The "breezy technical style" and "lyrical sense of swing" that have made Sarah McKenzie a global jazz fixture are returning to Northern California this March. Although her upcoming tour dates stay just outside the San Francisco city limits, the "Paris of the West" remains the emotional anchor of her latest creative chapter.Sarah McKenzie will be performing live this March, and the tour includes March 18th at Kuumbwa Jazz Center in Santa Cruz, March 20th at the Lesher Center for the Arts in Walnut Creek, and March 22nd at the Bach Dancing & Dynamite Society in Half Moon Bay. For more on Sarah's music, recordings, and tour dates, visit https://www.sarahmckenzie.info

The visionary pianist and SFJAZZ Resident Artistic Director returns for a multi-night residency that fuses Afro-Cuban roots with global sounds, which he calls the ultimate "Temple of Jazz."Show Highlights: A Week of Musical EvolutionSosa's residency at SFJAZZ offers an insight into his diverse musical pursuits across four distinct nights.Thursday, Mar 5: Sosa joins the Stanford Jazz Orchestra to perform music from the album Es:Sensual.Friday, Mar 6: Following an Open Soundcheck, Sosa performs with the Aguas Trio, featuring Yilian Cañizares, a collaboration that previously earned him a Premios LUCAS for Best Song Video.Saturday, Mar 7: The focus shifts to the Omar Sosa Quarteto Americanos.Sunday, Mar 8: The residency closes with the Suba Trio, showcasing material from their 2021 album SUBA—a "hymn to hope" for a post-pandemic world.If You GoWho: Resident Artistic Director Omar Sosa Dates: Thursday, March 5 – Sunday, March 8, 2026 Times: 7:30 PM (Thu-Sat); 7:00 PM (Sun); 4:30 PM (Fri Soundcheck) Venue: SFJAZZ Center, Miner Auditorium Address: 201 Franklin Street, San Francisco, CA 94102Tickets: https://www.sfjazz.org

Episode Description:Guitarist, composer, and bandleader Oscar Peñas joins host Steve Roby to discuss his musical journey from classical guitar in Barcelona to the vibrant jazz scene of Brooklyn. Originally from Spain and based in New York since 2007, Peñas brings a unique voice to contemporary jazz—one that blends American jazz language with Spanish heritage and classical roots.In this intimate conversation, Oscar shares stories about discovering jazz through cassette tapes in the late '80s, the magic of recording with the legendary Ron Carter, and what it means to be truly locked in with his trio on stage. He also discusses the evolving landscape for independent jazz artists, his upcoming suite "Remote Hoods" (a tribute to New York's diverse neighborhoods), and what audiences can expect from his return to SFJAZZ's Joe Henderson Lab. Songs Featured:"Ballad of the Fishermen" (from Almadraba, 2022) – featuring Ron Carter"Traveling Through Waters" (from Almadraba, 2022) – featuring Ron CarterAll music supplied by and used with permission from Oscar Peñas. Show Details:Oscar Peñas TrioVenue: Joe Henderson Lab at SFJAZZDate: Saturday, February 21stShowtimes: 7:00 PM & 8:30 PMTickets: sfjazz.orgFor more about Oscar's music, recordings, and tour dates, visit oscarpeñas.comPhoto: Jimmy Katz

SHOW NOTES: In this episode of Backstage Bay Area, host Steve Roby sits down with Haitian American jazz vocalist Tyreek McDole to discuss his meteoric rise in the jazz world, his chart-topping debut album, and his philosophy that music is a tool for healing and collective dreaming. In This Episode: • Early Recognition: How winning the Outstanding Vocalist Award from Wynton Marsalis at age 18 and the 2023 Sarah Vaughan International Jazz Vocal Competition launched Tyreek's career • "Open Up Your Senses": The story behind his 2025 debut album that hit #1 on JazzWeek and earned four stars from DownBeat Magazine • Music as Healing: Tyreek shares how "The Sun Song" transformed his own life and why he's committed to singing it for the rest of his career • Bridging Traditions: How Tyreek connects Louis Armstrong's romantic tradition with avant-garde influences like Pharaoh Sanders and Nicholas Payton • The Power of Listening: Why opening up our senses—especially in today's turbulent times—is more important than ever • Multi-Generational Collaboration: Working with jazz legends like Kenny Barron, Rodney Whitaker, and Sullivan Fortner alongside rising stars • Live at SFJAZZ: What to expect from his intimate performances at the Joe Henderson Lab with his touring quintet • What's Next: A sneak peek at his sophomore album and upcoming world tour Featured Tracks:"The Sun Song""Won't You Open Up Your Senses" (title track)Catch Tyreek McDole Live:SFJAZZ Center's Joe Henderson LabFebruary 12-13, 2025Two shows nightly: 7:00 PM & 8:30 PMTickets: sfjazz.org

Brooklyn-based songwriter, sculptor, and instrument builder Cleo Reed joins host Steve Roby to discuss their ambitious double album Cuntry, a project that blurs the lines between American folk traditions and dystopian electronic soundscapes. Named one of Pitchfork's 21 breakout artists to watch, Reed explores themes of ancestry, labor, capitalism, and black history through a deeply personal lens.In This EpisodeRoots and Origins: How Cleo Reed honors their great-grandmother and blues bassist grandfather through their artistic practiceThe Making of Cuntry: Why the double album splits between organic folk and electronic dystopia—and what that division reveals about modern American life "I've Been Out Here Hustling": A field song for the digital age that connects historical labor exploitation to contemporary capitalism and phone culture"No Borders": The story behind this collaborative track, recorded with international artists following a residency and created in response to global conflictPerformance as Ritual: How Reed translates large-scale installations and custom instruments into intimate live settingsSF Jazz Debut: What to expect from Reed's upcoming performance at the Joe Henderson Lab Featured Tracks:"I've Been Out Here Hustling""No Borders"All music and photos featured on this episode were supplied by the musician and used with permission. Upcoming Show:Cleo Reed performs at SF Jazz Center's Joe Henderson LabWednesday, February 25th | 7:00 PM & 8:30 PMTickets: sfjazz.org 

In this episode, host Steve Roby sits down with acclaimed trombonist, producer, and educator Delfeayo Marsalis. A 2011 NEA Jazz Master and a member of New Orleans' legendary musical first family, Marsalis has earned a reputation as a "merchant of joy" and as a vital ambassador for the Crescent City's culture. Delfeayo shares stories from his childhood in Kendall, Louisiana, where he shared a room with his father, Ellis, while his brothers, Branford and Wynton, shared another. He explains how his parents shaped his approach to the bandstand and his belief that music is not only what is on the page but also what you hear and experience. We also dive into the origins of the Uptown Jazz Orchestra (UJO)—a 14-piece ensemble founded in 2008 to preserve and advance the city's street rhythms, swing tradition, and brass-band energy. In this episode, we discuss:The 10-Course Meal: Why Marsalis views his live performances as a diverse culinary journey, moving from high-energy funk to soulful ballads. The Spirit of Mingus: The coincidental and "hip" origins of "Raid on the Mingus House Party," including its accidental connection to a famous superhero theme. Sidewalk Sizzle: How a fan at a local gig provided the perfect title for a funky anthem that captures the heat of a New Orleans street. Authentic Swing: Why the tradition of swinging is an essential, yet often overlooked, component of the modern big band sound. Show Details & TicketsDon't miss Delfeayo Marsalis & the Uptown Jazz Orchestra performing "Uptown On Mardi Gras Day" at the SFJAZZ Center! Date: Thursday, February 19, 2026 Time: 7:30 p.m. Venue: Miner Auditorium, SFJAZZ Center Tickets: Available at SFJAZZ.org Official Website: www.dmarsalis.com Uptown Jazz Orchestra: www.uptownjazzorchestra.com

What happens when you combine a London-born saxophonist, an Israeli guitarist, and a drummer who also plays bass? You get Trio Grande—a modern jazz supergroup rewriting the rules of the trio format. In this episode of Backstage Bay Area, host Steve Roby sits down with Will Vinson to explore the band's evolution from a Paul Motian-inspired vision to a bass-heavy (not bass-less!) powerhouse featuring the incomparable Nate Wood and guitarist Gilad Hekselman. What You'll Hear:The serendipitous origin story involving a late-night sit-in at NYC's Cornelius Street CafeHow Nate Wood defies physics by playing drums and bass at the same timeThe band's additive approach to arrangement and why they never chase a predetermined soundFeatured tracks: "Ministry of Love" from Urban Myth (2023) and "The Past", the first single from their upcoming album What's Left (June 2025)A sneak peek at their intimate SF Jazz performances All music presented in this episode was provided by the musician, with permission, and used for promotional purposes. Show Details:Trio Grande at SFJAZZJoe Henderson LabWednesday, February 11Two shows: 7:00 PM & 8:30 PM Get Tickets:https://www.sfjazz.org/tickets/productions/25-26/trio-grande/ Listen to Trio Grande:https://triogrande-whirlwind.bandcamp.com/album/trio-grande Backstage Bay Area brings you behind-the-scenes conversations with the artists shaping the Bay Area's vibrant music scene.

Bay Area keyboardist, composer, and bandleader Greg Rahn joins host Steve Roby to discuss his fascinating musical journey and his new album Side Hustle—a deeply personal project that brings together jazz, blues, fusion, New Orleans piano traditions, Cuban rhythms, and rock. Episode Highlights:The Chick Corea Moment: At age 17, Greg received life-changing advice from jazz legend Chick Corea, who encouraged him not to limit himself to one musical lane but to study with teachers who could teach him what he wanted to learn.25 Years in Video Games: Greg spent over two decades composing and producing audio for the video game industry in Silicon Valley, honing his craft across diverse musical styles while raising a family.The Long Road to Side Hustle: Started in 2017, shelved in 2018, and finally completed in 2025, the album took an unexpected detour when Greg recorded his solo piano album Rent Party (2021) to gain a fresh perspective.Honoring Lost Friends: The passing of guitarist Drew Zingg and bassist Steve Evans gave Greg renewed urgency to complete the project, making their performances on the album even more precious.Musical Diversity: From Snarky Puppy-inspired compositions to Steely Dan harmonies, the album showcases Greg's eclectic influences and collaborative spirit. Songs Featured (provided by the artist and used with permission):"Brand New Bad Idea" (featuring Drew Zingg on guitar and Steve Evans on bass)"Jam Night" (featuring Drew Zingg and Steve Evans) Upcoming Show: Greg Rahn celebrates the release of Side Hustle with an all-star lineup at the Empress Theater in Vallejo on Friday, February 6th at 8:00 PM. The show features Frank Acosta (guitar), Darrell Landers (bass), Randy Hayes (drums), Chris Kane (blues guitar), Juan Escavido (percussion), and Luke Curley (tuba/trombone). Get Tickets: https://empresstheatre.org/event/greg-rahn/ Learn More:Greg Rahn's website: https://gregrahn.netBackstage Bay Area: https://www.backstagebayarea.com Photo credit: Phil HawkinsKeeping Jazz Alive in the 415

Episode Highlights:From St. Louis to the World Stage: Greg Osby shares how growing up surrounded by live music in St. Louis bars and his mother's record distribution job shaped his non-biased appreciation for all genres of musicThe "Mad Clown Music" Revelation: A candid conversation with his sister led Osby to completely rethink his compositional approach, resulting in his 2023 album MinimalismBridging the Gap: Osby discusses his intentional shift toward accessibility—removing excess information to reach beyond the "jazz intelligentsia" and connect with everyday listenersAndrew Hill's Legacy: The saxophonist pays tribute to his mentor Andrew Hill, who called him "the son he never had," and explains how Hill's stutter influenced the composition "Thank You for Your Time."The Post-Hip-Hop Generation: Osby's optimistic view of young musicians today, who are developing faster than ever, thanks to digital access, while still needing real-world apprenticeshipUpcoming SF Jazz Performance: Details on his intimate shows at the Joe Henderson Lab with pianist Tal Cohen and Bay Area musicians Jemele Ramirez (drums) and David Ewell (bass) Songs Played1.    "Minimalism" – Greg Osby (from Minimalism, 2023)2.   "Thank You for Your Time" – Greg Osby (from Minimalism, 2023) Music supplied by and used with permission from Greg Osby.Show Information:Greg Osby at SF JazzJoe Henderson LabSunday, February 1, 2026Showtimes: 6:00 PM & 7:30 PMTickets: sfjazz.org Links:Greg Osby Official Website: gregosby.comBackstage Bay Area: backstagebayarea.com

Show NotesLegendary drummer Simon Phillips joins host Steve Roby to discuss five decades of rhythmic mastery, from teenage session work in 1970s London to leading the modern jazz fusion powerhouse Protocol.In This Episode:The Early Days – Simon recalls stepping into BBC studios at 16 with long hair, patchouli oil, and a Ludwig kit, sight-reading charts for string sections while older musicians in ties looked on skeptically. He shares how growing up in his father's band prepared him for high-pressure sessions with session legends like Herbie Flowers and Ray Cooper. Protocol V & Beyond – Fresh off the acclaimed 2022 release Protocol V, Simon reveals he's already recorded Protocol Six, set to drop this spring alongside a major European tour. He discusses his new approach of road-testing material live before release, following in the footsteps of Tony Williams and his late collaborator Harami. The Music Breakdown:"Jagannath" – How a Wednesday morning trash truck inspired an Indian-influenced opener with massive sound"Undeviginti" – The story of a melody that interrupted breakfast and became a groove in 19/16 that still makes you nod your head The Band – Meet the Protocol lineup heading to Yoshi's: bassist Ernest Tibbs (since 2013), keyboardist Otmaro Ruiz, guitarist Alex Sill, and new saxophonist Philip Whack, whose Joe Henderson-esque tone brings fresh energy to the group. The Yoshi's Experience – Why Simon loves the Oakland venue's Meyer sound system, professional crew, and intimate vibe (even if he wishes they'd let him play longer sets). Gear Talk – Simon debuts a brand new Tama mahogany kit finished in green lacquer—the same kit used to record Protocol VI. Catch Simon Phillips & Protocol Live:

Five-time Grammy winner Michael League sits down with Steve Roby to discuss his groundbreaking residency at SF Jazz Center—a five-night exploration that shatters the "one-band" label and reveals the full spectrum of his creative life.Best known as the founder of Snarky Puppy, League has spent his career defying categorization. In this conversation, he opens up about why he's never been content being "Mr. Snarky Puppy," his evolution from band leader to curator and "designated hitter," and how his residency format challenges audiences to see musicians as the multidimensional artists they truly are. Episode Highlights:The Power of DiversityLeague discusses how his residency brings together musicians from Mexico, Cuba, Turkey, Macedonia, the UK, Brooklyn, and North Carolina—a powerful statement in 2026 about the vital role immigrants and people of color play in American music culture. Ellipsis: The Frankenstein AlbumHear the fascinating story behind "Obbakoso" and the Ellipsis collaboration with Antonio Sánchez and Pedrito Martinez—an album created entirely backwards, where improvisation came first and composition followed. Looking Back at LingusLeague reflects on Snarky Puppy's breakthrough track with refreshing honesty, comparing it to "looking at college photos" while acknowledging how it opened doors to the deeper, more nuanced work the band creates today. The Future is CurationWhy League sees his future less as a frontman and more as a facilitator, curator, and bass player at heart—someone who thrives supporting others and creating "unique, bespoke musical experiences." Breaking Down the ProsceniumThe value of listening parties and soundcheck conversations, where artists and audiences meet on equal ground, without the barrier of performance expectations. Featured Music:"Obbakoso" from Ellipsis on GroundUp Music (Michael League, Antonio Sánchez, Pedrito Martínez)"Lingus (We Like It Here)" on GroundUp Music, by Snarky Puppy All songs used with the artist's permission.Relevant Links:SF Jazz Residency Information:SF Jazz Center – January 29–February 1, 2026Michael League:GroundUP MusicSnarky Puppy OfficialFeatured Artists:Bill LauranceAntonio SánchezPedrito MartinezCorey HenryBecca StevensBackstage Bay Area is hosted by Steve Roby

Guest: Marcus MachadoEpisode DescriptionGuitarist Marcus Machado joins host Steve Roby to discuss his journey from childhood prodigy to genre-blurring artist. Dubbed "the next young gun" by Rolling Stone, Machado has toured and recorded with Anderson Paak, Robert Glasper, and Jon Batiste, while his film scores have appeared in award-winning documentaries, including Mr. Soul and Apollo. In this episode, he shares stories about his early influences, his approach to blending rock, funk, hip hop, and jazz, and what audiences can expect from his upcoming intimate performances at SF Jazz. Featured Songs"Get By" – An instrumental track recorded during the pandemic, offering a message of hope and resilience during difficult times."Black Psychedelic Funk" – A spontaneous groove that started in Amsterdam in 2007-2008, featuring Daru Jones on drums and Jermaine Holmes (from D'Angelo and The Vanguard) on backing vocals.Episode HighlightsMarcus's incredible origin story: picking up a guitar at age 2, playing electric by age 4.His first musical memory: hearing Jimi Hendrix's "EXP" from Axis: Bold as Love.Performing "The Wind Cries Mary" at his kindergarten graduation.The influence of the Band of Gypsys as the first true funk-rock band.His philosophy of staying hungry and remaining a student of the guitar. Gear talk: analog pedals, Vox amps, Barons fuzz faces, and keeping it simpleWhat to expect from his intimate trio performances at SF JazzShow DetailsMarcus Machado at SFJAZZ Center – Joe Henderson LabDate: Thursday, January 22ndSets: 7:00 PM & 8:30 PMFeaturing: Uriah Duffy (bass) and Damon Jamal Taylor (drums) – all Bay Area musiciansTickets: https://www.sfjazz.org/tickets/productions/25-26/marcus-machado Limited edition vinyl available at the show, including Aquarius Purple and Blue Diamonds – each with a mystery color variant! LinksMarcus Machado's Website: https://www.marcusmachado.comBackstage Bay Area: https://www.backstagebayarea.comBackstage Bay Area is hosted by Steve Roby

Episode Description:Alto saxophonist, vocalist, and composer Braxton Cook joins host Steve Roby for an intimate conversation about his latest album Not Everyone Can Go—a deeply personal record that captures the intersection of touring life, fatherhood, and artistic evolution. In this episode, Braxton discusses:Growing up in a musically diverse household and his early connection to the saxophoneNavigating the tension between career ambition and family life with two young sonsThe collaborative spirit behind Not Everyone Can Go, featuring multiple producers and musicians from his Los Angeles communityThe emotional anchor of "My Everything" and the improvised urgency of "Kingdom Come."Letting go of relationships and habits that no longer serve his journeyThe importance of faith, gratitude, and staying true to what 12-year-old Braxton loved Featured Tracks:"My Everything""Kingdom Come" Upcoming SFJAZZ Show:Braxton Cook with Kiefer Trio + Josh JohnsonSmart Bomb Takeover SeriesSunday, January 18, 2026 | 4:00 PMMiner Auditorium at SFJAZZ Center201 Franklin Street, San Francisco, CAAn evening of exploratory jazz, hip-hop-leaning grooves, and soulful improvisation featuring three distinct voices in contemporary music. Tickets and details available at sfjazz.org. Learn More:Braxton Cook: braxtoncook.comBackstage Bay Area: backstagebayarea.comKeeping Jazz Alive in the 415 All music was provided by the artist and used with permission

In this episode, host Steve Roby sits down with Grammy-winning Brazilian mandolin virtuoso Hamilton de Holanda to discuss his innovative approach to the 10-string bandolim, the deep connections between choro and jazz, and his upcoming SFJAZZ performance. Episode Highlights:Hamilton shares his musical upbringing in a family where instruments were his childhood toys, receiving his first mandolin as a Christmas gift at age five in 1981. He discusses the power of the trio format with drummer Big Bel and keyboardist Thiago Alves, calling it the "perfect formation" that allows complete musical freedom.The conversation explores two featured tracks from Hamilton's Latin Grammy-winning live album, recorded in New York City:"Afro Choro" – Composed during the 2020 pandemic as part of a prolific period in which Hamilton wrote over 300 songs, this piece celebrates the African roots of choro music and features a stunning improvisation by saxophonist Chris Potter that bridges Brazilian and American jazz traditions."o1 Byte 10 Cordas" – Inspired by Hamilton's stepson (a tech genius who also plays the 10-string mandolin) and the classic Afro Sambas album by Baden Powell and Vinicius de Moraes, this composition reflects Hamilton's philosophy of bridging tradition and modernity.Hamilton describes his artistic mission as finding "the perfect way to play between the modern and the traditional," a philosophy that extends beyond music into his daily life. Upcoming Performance:Hamilton de Holanda TrioSF Jazz Center – Miner AuditoriumFriday, January 16th at 7:30 PM The trio will perform selections from their Latin Grammy-winning live album plus brand new compositions written during their current U.S. tour. Expect an evening of virtuosic musicianship, deep Brazilian tradition, and fearless improvisation.Get Tickets: https://www.sfjazz.org/tickets/productions/25-26/hamilton-de-holanda-trio/ Keeping Jazz Alive in the 415. We're Backstage Bay Area!

Brazilian guitarist and composer Chico Pinheiro joins Backstage Bay Area to talk about his musical journey, his duo collaboration with Vinicius Cantuária, and the stories behind his compositions “City of Dreams” and “Estrada Real” ahead of their upcoming SFJAZZ performances.A DownBeat Rising Star guitarist, Pinheiro reflects on his early start as a working musician in São Paulo, how Jimi Hendrix first pulled him to the guitar, and why “fun” has always been central to his artistic philosophy. He also explores the emotional geography behind “City of Dreams,” written during his move from São Paulo to New York, and the historical resonance of “Estrada Real,” inspired by Brazil's colonial-era gold route.Pinheiro also shares how his partnership with Vinicius Cantuária grew from admiration into a deep musical simpático, and what audiences can expect from their intimate duo sets—original music, Brazilian classics, Jobim, and spontaneous interplay shaped by close listening.

Episode Summary: In this episode of Backstage Bay Area, we sit down with two-time Grammy Award-winning pianist and composer Taylor Eigsti. A Menlo Park native who released his debut album at age 14, Eigsti has evolved from a local prodigy into one of the most versatile and celebrated voices in modern jazz. Fresh off his 2025 Grammy win for Best Contemporary Instrumental Album (Plot Armor), Eigsti joins us to discuss his deep Bay Area roots, the emotional architecture of his latest compositions, and his upcoming homecoming performance at SFJAZZ.In This Episode:·       From Prodigy to Peer: Eigsti reflects on his upbringing in a music-filled household, the profound influence of his late sister and father, and the pivotal mentorship he received from local legends like Dr. Herb Wong and Bud Spangler.·       The Animation of "Sparky": We dive into the backstory of "Sparky" from the album Tree Falls. Eigsti reveals how the 1987 animated film Sparky's Magic Piano—a childhood favorite about humility and practice—inspired the track's structure and its complex, 130-track production.·       Crowdsourcing a Symphony: Eigsti breaks down his massive 2022 commission for the Hewlett Foundation, "Imagine Our Future." He explains the Herculean task of weaving over 100 diverse submissions from Northern California youth—ranging from poetry to visual art—into a cohesive piece for a 12-person ensemble.·       Turning Grief into Art: In a deeply personal segment, Eigsti opens up about "Fire Within" from his latest album, Plot Armor. He discusses the process of adapting his late mother's writings on dementia into lyrics, brought to life through a poignant collaboration with vocalist Lisa Fischer and guitarist Julian Lage.·       SFJAZZ Preview: A look ahead to his January 17th double bill at Miner Auditorium with saxophonist Melissa Aldana. Eigsti introduces his band for the evening—Oscar Seton (drums), Charles Altera (guitar), and Jonathan Marin (bass)—and hints at the unique energy of this specific lineup.Featured Music:·       "Sparky" – from Tree Falls (2021) ·       "Fire Within" – from Plot Armor (2024) Key Links:·       Get Tickets for SFJAZZ show: Taylor Eigsti & Melissa Aldana at SFJAZZ (Jan 17)·       Stream the Album: Listen to Plot Armor on Spotify·       Watch: Sparky's Magic Piano (YouTube)·       Artist Website: Taylor Eigsti Official Site

Show Notes:In this episode of Backstage Bay Area, host Steve Roby sits down with Grammy-nominated saxophonist and composer Melissa Aldana. As the first female instrumentalist and first South American to win the Thelonious Monk International Jazz Saxophone Competition, Melissa shares her remarkable journey from Santiago, Chile, to the global jazz stage.Highlights:•    Melissa discusses her early influences, including her family's musical legacy and the pivotal moment she switched to tenor sax after hearing Sonny Rollins.•    Insights into her creative process, the importance of transcribing jazz greats, and learning to embrace her own sound.•    The story behind her latest Blue Note album, Echoes of the Inner Prophet, and how it honors the late Wayne Shorter.•    A preview of her upcoming album Filin, produced by Don Was, featuring Central and South American ballads and collaborations with renowned artists.•    Reflections on music as a tool for personal growth and connection.•    Details about her upcoming performance at SFJAZZ's Miner Auditorium as part of the Upswing series, sharing the stage with pianist Taylor Eigsti.•     Featured Tracks:•    “Unconscious Whispers” from Echoes of the Inner Prophet•    “Echoes of the Inner Prophet” (title track) Links & Resources:•    Melissa Aldana Official Website•    Echoes of the Inner Prophet on Blue Note Records•    SFJAZZ Tickets & Info•    DownBeat Magazine•    Follow Melissa Aldana on Instagram Upcoming San Francisco Show:•    Date: Saturday, January 17th•    Venue: Miner Auditorium, SFJAZZ Center•    Double Bill: Melissa Aldana & Taylor Eigsti•    Get Tickets 

Episode: Sasha Berliner at SFJAZZ — Recontextualizing the VibraphoneIn this episode, we welcome San Francisco native Sasha Berliner, a vibraphonist, composer, and producer whose work serves as a spectral map of contemporary music. Berliner has emerged as a primary voice in the New York scene by deconstructing the traditional boundaries of her instrument, blending a rigorous jazz foundation with the kinetic, "genre-blurring" spirit of the Bay Area.We discuss her journey from rock drumming in Oakland to studying harmony with Stefon Harris, and her current trajectory toward a new "electric" aesthetic inspired by the fusion giants of the 1970s.Bay Area Foundations: Berliner attributes her experimental spirit to growing up within the artistic landscape of the San Francisco Bay Area and her formative years at the Oakland School for the Arts.A Diverse Sonic Upbringing: Her musical identity remains rooted in an eclectic mix of rock, alternative music, and hip-hop. She notes that her father's history in the local punk scene, specifically his work with the band Alice Donut, significantly influenced her approach.The Influence of Stefon Harris: Moving to New York to study with Harris was a pivotal shift. She utilizes his system of relating harmony to specific emotions as a cornerstone of her compositional process, allowing her music to "speak" without the need for lyrics.Recontextualizing the Vibraphone: Berliner actively works to move beyond "antiquated" associations of the vibraphone, creating a sound that reflects modern textures rather than solely adhering to mid-century jazz archetypes.The Electric Evolution: Her upcoming project, slated for late 2026, focuses on an all-electric ensemble featuring synths and electric bass. This direction draws inspiration from groups like Weather Report and The Headhunters, as well as modern innovators like Chris Potter's Circuits Trio.The Dynamics of Leadership: She reflects on the transition from a versatile side player for luminaries like Christian McBride to a bandleader responsible for the logistical and sonic architecture of her own projects.Musical Tracks Featured"Jade" (from the album Onyx): A track Berliner identifies as the "closest relative" to her developing electric project."Zenith" (from the album Fantôme): A piece featuring a distinctive horn arrangement inspired by the collective energy of Stefon Harris's 90 Miles album.Sasha Berliner returns home this week for a double bill with vocalist Michael Mayo at SFJAZZ.The Ensemble: Berliner will lead a quintet featuring Myles Martin (drums), Julio Xavier Chetto (bass), Javier Santiago (piano/keys), and Tristan Cappel (sax/flute).Date: Saturday, December 27, 2025.Time: 7:30 PM.Venue: Miner Auditorium, San Francisco.Tickets: Available at SFJAZZ.org.Keeping Jazz Alive in the 415.

Episode SummaryIn this festive episode, Steve Roby chats with acclaimed pianist, composer, and educator Adam Shulman, a key figure in the San Francisco jazz scene since 2002. Known for his work as a sideman with artists like Paula West, Stefon Harris, and Miguel Zenón, as well as for his own original albums, Adam shares insights into his musical journey and the timeless magic of Vince Guaraldi's “A Charlie Brown Christmas.” Key Topics & HighlightsA Holiday Tradition: Adam shares his yearly tribute to Vince Guaraldi's “A Charlie Brown Christmas,” performed with his trio at SF Jazz's Miner Auditorium. He reflects on why the music connects across generations and how it has become a family tradition for many in the Bay Area. Musical Roots: Adam explains how his classical piano training at UC Santa Cruz and mentorship under Smith Dobson influenced his approach to jazz improvisation and composition.Compositional Process: The episode features tracks from Adam's catalog, including “The Little Ones” and “Mingus Dreams of Billy Strayhorn.” Adam explains his creative process, often starting with harmony and drawing inspiration from jazz greats.The Art of Adaptation: Adam discusses balancing his roles as a bandleader and a sought-after sideman, and how collaborating with different artists shapes his unique sound. Behind the Scenes: Listeners get a preview of the upcoming Charlie Brown Christmas show, including the setlist featuring music from both the original album and Guaraldi's “A Boy Named Charlie Brown,” along with introductions to his longtime bandmates John Tala (bass) and James Gallagher (drums).Family-Friendly Jazz: Adam and Steve discuss the importance of introducing young audiences to live jazz and how the Charlie Brown Christmas show serves as a gateway for many to discover jazz.Event DetailsAdam Shulman Trio Plays A Charlie Brown ChristmasDate: Sunday, December 21stTime: 1:00 PM (Matinee)Location: SF Jazz's Miner AuditoriumTickets & Info: https://www.sfjazz.org/tickets/productions/25-26/adam-shulman-trio-charlie-brown-christmas/Bring the whole family for an afternoon of timeless holiday music and jazz improvisation!Connect with Adam ShulmanLearn more about Adam's music and upcoming performances on his website: https://www.adamshulmanjazz.comThanks for Listening!If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, rate, and review Backstage Bay Area. Stay tuned for more conversations with the jazz artists shaping the Bay Area's vibrant music scene. We're keeping Jazz Alive in the 415!

Episode Summary: In this episode of Backstage Bay Area, host Steve Roby sits down with vocalist and composer Michael Mayo to discuss his whirlwind year. Fresh off two Grammy nominations—Best Jazz Vocal Album for Fly and Best Jazz Performance for "Four"—Michael opens up about the surreal moment he got the news in Paris. We dive into his viral NPR Tiny Desk Concert, his philosophy on using looper pedals versus acoustic arrangements,and his deep musical lineage. Michael also previews his upcoming year-end show at SFJAZZ, part of the Terence Blanchard-curated "UpSwing" series.In This Episode:The Grammy Moment: Michael shares his reaction to receiving two nominations while soundchecking in Paris.NPR Tiny Desk: How he turned the audience into a choir and the importance of community in his performances.Song Breakdown - "Four": Reimagining a Miles Davis classic by adding "mischief" and a new rhythmic feel without changing the harmony.Song Breakdown - "Just Friends": Finding the universal heartbreak in a Great American Songbook standard.Tech vs. Tradition: How Michael balances his signature looper pedal techniques with a traditional jazz quartet setup.Musical Roots: Growing up with parents who worked with Earth, Wind & Fire and Diana Ross, and knowing from age three that music was his path.Featured Music:"Four" - Fly (Deluxe Edition)"Just Friends" - Fly (Deluxe Edition)Show Links & Tickets:Live at SFJAZZ: Michael Mayo & Sasha Berliner (UpSwing Double Bill)Date: Saturday, December 27, 2025Venue: Miner Auditorium, San FranciscoTickets: https://www.sfjazz.org/tickets/productions/25-26/upswing-sasha-berliner-michael-mayo/Connect with Michael Mayo:Website: michaelmayomusic.comInstagram: @themichaelmayoFacebook: Michael Mayo MusicYouTube: Michael Mayo

Episode Description: In this episode of Backstage Bay Area, host Steven Roby sits down with vocalist and songwriter Sachal Vasandani. Known for a voice that critics call "transfixing," Sachal has collaborated with everyone from Wynton Marsalis to Bobby McFerrin.Sachal discusses his latest project, Best Life Now, and the surprising journey of taking that album—originally produced with deep grooves by drummer Nate Smith—and stripping it back to its raw, acoustic essentials. We dive into his philosophy on jazz improvisation, his "brush your teeth" approach to vocal discipline, and how he navigates the confusing headspace of post-pandemic life through song.In This Episode, We Cover:·       The Ella Effect: How listening to Ella Fitzgerald taught him to find new "nooks and crannies" in songs he has sung thousands of times.·       The Acoustic Pivot: Why a logistical travel snag turned into a creative breakthrough for his Acoustic Sessions EP.·       Lyrical Tension: The story behind the title track "Best Life Now" and why living your "best life" isn't always as simple as it sounds.·       Teaching Jazz: Sachal's unique philosophy on balancing technical discipline with the freedom to break the rules.·       Live at Joe Henderson Lab: Previewing his intimate reunion with Bay Area natives Dayna Stephens and Charles Altura.Featured Music:·       "Best Life Now" (Acoustic Version)·       "Too Easy"Links & Resources:·       Tickets: Sachal Vasandani at SFJAZZ (Dec 12)·       Album: Best Life Now & Acoustic Sessions EP (Available on all streaming platforms)Connect with Backstage Bay Area:·       Website: Backstagebayarea.com·       Host: Steven Roby

Episode Description: In this episode of Backstage Bay Area, host Steven Roby sits down with Frank London, trumpeter and founding member of the Grammy Award-winning band The Klezmatics.For four decades, The Klezmatics have been the world's leading voice in blending traditional Yiddish roots with the energy of punk, jazz, and gospel. Frank shares stories from the band's origins in New York's gritty East Village scene of the 1980s and discusses their landmark collaboration with the Woody Guthrie estate—a project that unearthed lost Hanukkah lyrics by the American folk icon.We also get an exclusive preview of their upcoming album, We Were Made for These Times, and discuss why bringing "happy, joyous" energy to the stage is a necessary form of activism today.In This Episode, We Cover:·       The East Village Spark: How the 1980s avant-garde and punk scenes helped launch a global klezmer revival.·       Woody Guthrie's Lost Lyrics: The incredible story of how Nora Guthrie discovered her father's Jewish-themed writings and tapped The Klezmatics to bring them to life.·       40 Years of Music: How the band has kept its core lineup together and evolved its sound over four decades.·       New Music Preview: Frank discusses the socially conscious themes behind their upcoming 2026 album, We Were Made for These Times.·       Live at SFJAZZ: Why the band goes "full throttle" on improvisation when they play the Miner Auditorium.Featured Music:·       "Spin Dreydl Spin"·       "(Do The) Latke Flip-Flip"Links & Resources:·       Tickets: The Klezmatics at SFJAZZ (Dec 15)·       Website: The Klezmatics Official Site·       Album: Woody Guthrie's Happy Joyous Hanukkah (Vinyl Reissue out now)Connect with Backstage Bay Area:·       Website: Backstagebayarea.com·       Instagram: @BackstageBayArea·       Host: Steven Roby

Episode Summary: In this episode of Backstage Bay Area, Steven Roby sits down with Grammy-nominated clarinetist and saxophonist Anat Cohen. Known for her expressive virtuosity and infectious charisma, Anat is bringing a massive milestone celebration to San Francisco.We discuss her upcoming "50th Birthday Celebration" at SFJAZZ (December 11-12), a career-spanning residency featuring her intimate "Quartetinho" ensemble and her expansive 10-piece "Tentet." Anat opens up about growing up in a musical household in Tel Aviv, her "student for life" philosophy while pursuing a master's degree in Rio de Janeiro, and the creative visualization behind her latest album, Bloom.In This Episode, We Cover:The Cohen Family House: Growing up in Tel Aviv with brothers Yuval and Avishai and fighting for sonic space.Defining "Quartetinho": How her "little quartet" creates a massive sound through multi-instrumentalism (accordion, vibes, guitar, and electronics).Visualizing the Music: The fascinating story of how a solo clarinet practice session evolved into the track "The Night Owl."The Eternal Student: Why Anat returned to university to study Brazilian music in the middle of a successful touring career.Big Band Energy: Recording Interaction Live with the WDR Big Band and her brothers.Show Preview: What audiences can expect at the SFJAZZ Birthday Celebration, from intimate duos to "wild party moments".Featured Music:"The Night Owl" – From the album Bloom (2024, Anzic Records)."Footsteps and Smiles" – From the album Interaction Live (2025, Anzic Records).Links & Resources:TICKETS: Anat Cohen 50th Birthday Celebration at SFJAZZ (Dec 11-12, Miner Auditorium).Official Website: AnatCohen.comRecord Label: Anzic RecordsLatest Album: BloomConnect with Backstage Bay Area:Website: BackstageBayArea.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/backstagesfbay/Host: Steven RobyIf you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review!

Episode Summary: This week on Backstage Bay Area, host Steve Roby welcomes two-time Grammy Award-winning violinist Mads Tolling. Known for his work with the Turtle Island Quartet, Stanley Clarke, and Bob Weir, Mads is shifting gears this season to share a piece of his Danish childhood in San Francisco.Mads takes us inside his project, Cool Yule: A Nordic Holiday Celebration, a "love letter" to his upbringing in Copenhagen. We explore the concept of "hygge," compare the structured traditions of a Danish Christmas with the chaotic energy of American holidays, and delve into the fascinating—and sometimes frightening—folklore of the North. From a rice pudding-eating gnome to a child-eating "Christmas Cat," Mads explains the stories behind the music. Plus, hear how he transforms an 1830s violin into a growling baritone instrument he calls "Uncle Scratchy."In This Episode, We Discuss:Life Lately: Meds' recent touring with Melvin Seals & JGB and his deep dive into the Grateful Dead repertoire.Nordic vs. American Christmas: Why the "Christmas spirit" feels different in Denmark, the importance of hygge (coziness), and why the 24th is the real main event in Scandinavia.Folklore & Music:The Gnome's Attic: The story of the Nisse who demands his rice pudding (and fights off rats to get it).The Christmas Cat: An Icelandic legend about a giant fashion-policing cat that eats children who don't receive new clothes for Christmas."Uncle Scratchy": Mads explains his unique baritone violin, tuned an octave lower to create a cello-like, medieval growl perfect for monster stories.The Frozen Connection: How a modern Disney hit connects back to Danish author Hans Christian Andersen's The Snow Queen.Featured Music:"The Gnome's Attic" (from Cool Yule) "The Christmas Cat" (from Cool Yule) Upcoming Live Show: Catch Mads Tolling & The Mads Men live for a special holiday engagement!Event: Cool Yule: A Nordic Holiday Celebration Dates: Saturday, Dec 13 & Sunday, Dec 14, 2025 Venue: Joe Henderson Lab, SFJAZZ (San Francisco) Showtimes: 7:00 PM & 8:30 PM The Band: Mads Tolling (violin), Colin Hogan (piano/accordion), Gary Brown (bass), Eric Garland (drums).Resources & Links:Get Tickets: SFJAZZ Ticket LinkMads Tolling Official Site: madstolling.comHost: Steve Roby, Backstage Bay Area

Episode Summary:Vibraphonist, composer, and educator Stefon Harris joins Backstage Bay Area before his November 29 double bill with trumpeter Theo Croker at SFJAZZ's Miner Auditorium. Harris discusses the spiritual roots of his sound, the ideas behind his new album Sonic Creed Volume Two: Life Signs, and why he believes harmony can be felt as vividly as rhythm. He also shares how his Harmony Cloud app is transforming the way musicians hear and respond to chords in real time.About Stefon Harris:Stefon Harris is a four-time Grammy-nominated jazz vibraphonist, bandleader, and educator. As a longtime leader of the band Blackout and a former member of the SFJAZZ Collective, he has recorded for Blue Note and Concord, collaborated with artists ranging from Herbie Hancock and Wayne Shorter to Dianne Reeves and Common, and teaches at Rutgers University–Newark. Harris is also the co-founder of the Melodic Progression Institute and the creator of the Harmony Cloud ear-training app.In This Episode:- Stefon's early experiences with music in the Black church and classical training- The concept and story behind Sonic Creed Volume Two: Life Signs- How the title track “Life Signs” grew out of creative limits and four-note cells- Writing “I Know, Love” as a musical memorial and exploring the emotional weight of chords- Why Harmony Cloud was designed as a “metronome for harmony” and how musicians are using it- Reflections on his years with the SFJAZZ Collective and the lessons learned there- What Bay Area jazz fans can expect from the UpSwing double bill with Theo CrokerMusic Featured in This Episode:- Stefon Harris & Blackout – “Life Signs”- Stefon Harris & Blackout – “I Know, Love”Show & Ticket Information:Stefon Harris & Blackout / Theo Croker – UpSwing at SFJAZZDate: Saturday, November 29, 2025Venue: Miner Auditorium, SFJAZZ Center (San Francisco)Showtime: 7:30 p.m.Tickets: https://www.sfjazz.org/tickets/productions/25-26/upswing-stefon-harris-theo-croker/Links & Resources:Stefon Harris official site: https://www.stefonharris.comDownload and explore Harmony Cloud (iOS app): https://www.stefonharris.com/harmony-cloudSFJAZZ: https://www.sfjazz.orgSupport & Follow Backstage Bay Area:Website, show archive, and concert reviews: https://www.backstagebayarea.comFollow and subscribe on your favorite podcast platform, and share this episode with a fellow jazz fan.

In this episode of Backstage Bay Area, host Steve Roby interviews Ben Folds, the pianist, songwriter, and arts advocate who has spent three decades balancing sharp, story-driven pop songs with orchestral ambition. Fresh off the release of Ben Folds Live with the National Symphony Orchestra and deep into his work on the new holiday album Sleigher, Folds discusses what it means to keep art alive in a noisy, distracted culture.The conversation shifts from his years at the Kennedy Center to the details of writing for orchestra, from the small dramas within songs like “Christine From The Seventh Grade” and “But Wait, There's More” to the quirky, reflective world of his upcoming Christmas shows at SFJAZZ. Along the way, Folds explores his long-standing Keys For Kids initiative and explains why access to instruments and music education still feels crucial to him.• How Ben Folds thinks about moving between rock clubs, concert halls, and orchestras without changing the core of his songwriting.• The story behind “Christine From The Seventh Grade” and why some songs invite a full orchestral treatment while others do not.• Why “But Wait, There's More” became a centerpiece about information overload, conspiracy thinking, and the carnival atmosphere of modern media.• What Folds learned during his tenure as Artistic Advisor to the National Symphony Orchestra and how that shaped his view of orchestration as storytelling.• How his Keys For Kids program puts instruments and lessons into the hands of young players, and why he sees creativity as a basic civic skill, not a luxury.• The ideas and scenes that shaped the Christmas album Sleigher, from collapsing inflatable Santas to the sense of Christmas as a personal time machine.• What to expect from his informal, story-rich holiday shows at SFJAZZ's Miner Auditorium with Lindsey Kraft, Ross Garren, and his touring band.• Ben Folds Live with the National Symphony Orchestra – new live album documenting two sold-out nights at the Kennedy Center.• “Christine From The Seventh Grade” – expanded from a studio track into a full orchestral narrative.• “But Wait, There's More” – from chamber piece to orchestral meditation on information overload.• Sleigher – Folds's offbeat, reflective Christmas album that anchors the SFJAZZ holiday shows.• Keys For Kids – his long-running initiative supporting access to instruments and music education.Ben Folds brings his holiday program to SFJAZZ's Miner Auditorium on Monday, December 8, and Tuesday, December 9, 2025.Both shows begin at 7:30 p.m. at Miner Auditorium in San Francisco.Tickets and full event details: https://www.sfjazz.org/tickets/productions/25-26/ben-folds/Ben Folds – official website: https://www.benfolds.comSFJAZZ event page: https://www.sfjazz.org/tickets/productions/25-26/ben-folds/Backstage Bay Area – more episodes and concert coverage: https://www.backstagebayarea.com

Show Description: In this episode of Backstage Bay Area, host Steve Roby interviews pianist and composer Edward Simon to discuss the trio Three Visitors, a deeply collaborative project with bassist Scott Colley and drummer Brian Blade. This trio consists of three composers writing for one another, built on a long history, shared language, and deliberate listening. We talk about how the group developed from their New York connections in the 1990s, how the new album on GroundUP Music was created with guests like Chris Potter and Becca Stevens, and what Bay Area audiences can expect when Three Visitors performs at the Joe Henderson Lab at SFJAZZ. What we cover in this episode:·      Edward's musical roots in Venezuela and his path through New York's jazz scene·      How he, Scott Colley, and Brian Blade discovered their “we-already-know-each-other” chemistry·      Why Three Visitors is a fully collaborative project, not “Edward Simon's trio”·      Writing music that invites conversation, space, and high-level improvisation·      Deep dive on the album track “You Are” — a meditation on human potential, with strings and Chris Potter·      How vocalist Becca Stevens reshaped “I Wanna Be With You” and why the trio welcomes guests·      What changes (and what doesn't) when they bring this music into an intimate room like the Joe Henderson Lab·      How the group keeps sets fluid so each show feels like a new “visit” About the album — Three VisitorsShow Description: In this episode of Backstage Bay Area, host Steve Roby interviews pianist and composer Edward Simon to discuss the trio Three Visitors, a deeply collaborative project with bassist Scott Colley and drummer Brian Blade. This trio consists of three composers writing for one another, built on a long history, shared language, and deliberate listening. We talk about how the group developed from their New York connections in the 1990s, how the new album on GroundUP Music was created with guests like Chris Potter and Becca Stevens, and what Bay Area audiences can expect when Three Visitors performs at the Joe Henderson Lab at SFJAZZ.Upcoming showThree Visitors: Edward Simon, Scott Colley & Brian BladeWhere: Joe Henderson Lab, SFJAZZ Center, San FranciscoWhen: Friday, November 21, 2025 — 7:00 p.m. & 8:30 p.m.; Saturday, November 22, 2025 — 7:00 p.m. & 8:30 p.m.Tickets: https://www.sfjazz.org/tickets/productions/25-26/edward-simon-three-visitors/ Listen / Buy the album:GroundUP Music store: https://store.groundupmusic.net/products/three-visitors-cdBandcamp: https://threevisitors.bandcamp.com/album/three-visitors

Episode DescriptionIn this episode, Steven Roby talks with Bay Area trumpeter and composer Sarah Wilson about her luminous new album Incandescence and the creative path that led her from political puppet theater to leading an all-woman horn line in a brass-forward Bay Area ensemble. Wilson explains how visual art, community-based performance, and New Orleans street energy shaped the music on Incandescence, and why she wants audiences to experience the album as one immersive arc at her upcoming Berkeley show.·       Growing up in Healdsburg and finding the trumpet again after college·       How work in political/activist theater shaped her sense of rhythm and movement·       Writing music in response to visual art, especially painter Thomas Reinhold·       Building the Incandescence band: Kasey Knudsen (alto sax), Mara Fox (trombone), John Schott (guitar), Lisa Mezzacappa (bass), Jason Levis (drums)·       Why she wanted an all-woman horn line for this project·       The story behind the piece “Architecture in Space”·       What audiences can expect at The Back Room album-release show·       How joy and a sense of time-suspension are at the center of her musicSarah Wilson – Incandescence album releaseThe Back Room, 1984 Bonita Ave., Berkeley, CASaturday, November 88:00 p.m. (doors 7:30 p.m.)Tickets and venue info: https://backroommusic.comSarah Wilson's official site: https://sarahwilsonmusic.comMusic and releases (including Incandescence): https://sarahwilson.bandcamp.comFollow her on her website for social media updates.Backstage Bay Area is a Bay Area music journalism podcast hosted by Steven Roby, featuring conversations with the artists shaping our region's jazz, roots, and creative music scenes. Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube, and help support Bay Area live music by sharing the episode. 

Episode SummaryExecutive Director and co‑founder of SFCM's Roots, Jazz & American Music (RJAM) program, Jason Hainsworth, joins Steve to talk about how the Side‑By‑Side model turns the Joe Henderson Lab into a working classroom. We explore mentorship in real time, why original student music matters, and what audiences can expect from RJAM's *Side‑By‑Side: New Visions* performance at the Lab.GuestJason Hainsworth — Executive Director & Co‑Founder, RJAM (San Francisco Conservatory of Music)What You'll Hear·      How RJAM prepares young improvisers for a professional life on and off the bandstand.·      How the SFCM–SFJAZZ partnership gives students meaningful access to world‑class artists and stages.·      What the *Side‑By‑Side* format looks like on stage: mixed student–faculty ensembles, quick turnarounds, and plenty of room for improvisation.·      Two original student works discussed on the show: “Rebecca” by Xitlalli Estrella and “Warlike” by Alan Jones.·      Where and when to catch free SFCM concerts across the academic year.Suggested Timestamps (approx.)·      00:00  | Intro and episode setup·      01:10  | What RJAM offers promising students·      05:30  | SFCM × SFJAZZ partnership and Lab culture·      10:10  | Inside the *Side‑By‑Side* format·      14:00  | Student track spotlight: “Rebecca” (Xitlalli Estrella)·      18:30  | Student track spotlight: “Warlike” (Alan Jones)·      23:00  | SFCM concerts open to the public·      26:00  | What to expect on show night·      27:30  | Closing thoughtsPull Quote“Performing alongside mentors is unmatched for learning— from preparing rehearsals to shaping ideas with the band you're in.” — Jason Hainsworth.Music NotesIf excerpts of “Rebecca” (Xitlalli Estrella) and “Warlike” (Alan Jones) are used, they appear courtesy of the artists and the RJAM program. All rights are reserved by the respective creators.Links & InfoTickets: RJAM *Side‑By‑Side: New Visions* — Friday, November 14, 7:30 p.m., Joe Henderson Lab, SFJAZZ Center.https://www.sfjazz.org/tickets/productions/25-26/rjam-side-by-side-new-visions/Venue NotesJoe Henderson Lab is located within the SFJAZZ Center (San Francisco). Please check the ticket page for updated door times and policies.More from SFCMRJAM and SFCM present hundreds of concerts during the academic year—many free and open to the public—including chamber music, jazz combos, and student recitals across SFCM venues.CreditsHost & Producer: Steve RobyShow: Backstage Bay Area — your all‑access pass to the local music scene.Interview guest: Jason HainsworthProduction: BackstageBayArea.comEnjoying the show?Follow and rate Backstage Bay Area on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube. Share this episode with a friend and help support live music in the Bay Area.

Episode summaryMusic Director and saxophonist Chris Potter joins Backstage Bay Area to preview the SFJAZZ Collective's tribute to Wayne Shorter's Native Dancer. We talk about why this album matters, how the Collective reimagined its songs for today's band, Potter's personal encounter with Shorter, and what new music is on deck.What you'll hear• Why Native Dancer remains a living blueprint for jazz–Brazilian exchange• How the Collective divided up arrangements and found fresh angles on classics like “Ponta de Areia”• A rehearsal-room story that captures Shorter's mix of imagination and precision• What to expect across the three Miner Auditorium shows (setlist variety, originals, and ensemble chemistry)• Potter's upcoming projects and where the Collective heads nextGuestChris Potter — saxophonist, composer, and Music Director of the SFJAZZ Collective.Selected quotes• “The SFJAZZ Collective comes together every year to workshop new music, and this season we wanted to make a real statement with Native Dancer.”• “We each brought in arrangements. The original album is so perfectly realized that the challenge was to find our own way through it.”• “Wayne could ask you to imagine Superman flying over the mountain—and in the next breath correct a single B-flat. That balance guided us.”• “The feeling on stage is, ‘This is a band.' Mutual respect, shared history, and material we truly love.”About the music• Wayne Shorter's 1975 collaboration with Milton Nascimento braided Brazilian songcraft with jazz harmony and studio-era rhythm—music built for reinvention.• The Collective's program features the full Native Dancer songbook alongside new originals that extend its spirit.CreditsHost/Producer: Steve Roby — Backstage Bay AreaGuest: Chris PotterMusic: Excerpts as permitted by rights holdersRecording: SFJAZZ Collective sessions & interviewLinks & ticketsEvent: SFJAZZ Collective — Tribute to Wayne Shorter's Native DancerVenue: Miner Auditorium (SFJAZZ Center, San Francisco)Dates/Times:• Saturday, Nov. 1 – 7:30 p.m.• Sunday, Nov. 2 – 3:00 p.m.• Sunday, Nov. 2 – 7:00 p.m.Tickets: https://www.sfjazz.org/tickets/productions/25-26/sfjazz-collective/More info: SFJAZZ.org

Episode logline:Saxophonist—and bassist—Gerald Albright talks origin stories, the punch and polish behind “Living My Best Life,” why the title cut “Full Throttle” opens up onstage, and what listeners can expect when his band hits Oakland.About our guestA pillar of contemporary jazz with decades of touring and studio work, Gerald Albright writes and produces with a rhythm-section mindset. He came up on saxophone in South Central Los Angeles, later added bass guitar, and now releases music independently on Bright Music Records. That hybrid vantage shapes sets built on pulse, melody, and forward motion.What we cover·      Origins & influences. How a church-lesson pivot put a sax in his hands—“I immediately fell in love with the saxophone”—and why Maceo Parker's clarity and percussive bite became a lifelong model.·      Hearing from two chairs. The bass guitar changed how he writes and locks the pocket: “Now I'm in the rhythm section, where there's the meat and potatoes of the groove… I combine the two to create the best music I can.”·      Studio craft → stage energy. The gleam and stacked-horn sound of “Living My Best Life” grew from pandemic-era time in the studio: “I learned how to mix my own records… I like to put the horns right up front.”·      Why “Full Throttle” stretches live. “I wanted the freedom to really stretch out and play… When we play it live, we really get to go full throttle.”·      What fans can look forward to. A high-energy, audience-involved night that blends burners and love songs, drawn from a catalog spanning 20-plus projects.·      What's next. A new, as-yet-untitled EP in the mixing stage—“the music is coming out phenomenal”—with touring to follow.Featured tracks (discussed in this episode)·      “Living My Best Life” — stacked horn writing, sleek rhythm bed, and the producer's ear for space.·      “Full Throttle” — title track from G-Stream 3 – Full Throttle, built for improvisation when the band opens it up on stage.The band on these datesAnthony Brown, Jr. (bass), Colin “CC” Clawson (keyboards), and James “JRob” Roberson (musical director, drums).Memorable quotes·      “I immediately fell in love with the saxophone.”·      “The bass chair put me where the meat and potatoes of the groove live.”·      “I like the horns right up front—that's the sound!”Listen for·      How Albright connects Maceo Parker's articulation to his own attack.·      The way a bassist's perspective shapes phrasing, form, and set flow.·      Why new independent releases keep his horn stacks, mixes, and repertoire exactly as he envisions them.Links & infoTickets: Yoshi's Oakland — https://yoshis.com/events/buy-tickets/gerald-albright-10/detailGerald Albright — Official site: https://geraldalbright.com/CreditsHost: Steve Roby — Backstage Bay Area.Production: Backstage Bay Area Audio.

Canadian vocalist-composer Caity Gyorgy joins Steve for a conversation about craft, collaboration, and why swing still feels newly minted when the writing is sharp and the band listens hard. Known for quicksilver phrasing and original tunes that travel between club intimacy and orchestral sheen, Gyorgy traces the path from early influences to her new string-driven project and previews her San Francisco debut at the Joe Henderson Lab.What you'll hear• How Caity discovered jazz and shaped her sound through singers like Ella Fitzgerald, Abbey Lincoln, Blossom Dearie, Betty Carter, and June Christy.• Inside Caity Gyorgy with Strings: writing with pianist-arranger Mark Limacher, assembling an all-Canadian orchestra, and channeling arranging touchstones (Don Costa, Nelson Riddle, Gordon Jenkins, Henry Mancini).• Song stories: “That Doesn't Matter” (a cheeky portrait of friendship and creative trust) and “You'll Learn” (a cinematic, voice-memo-to-lyric journey).• What Bay Area audiences can expect at the Joe Henderson Lab: standards from Loesser, Styne, Porter, and Kern alongside Gyorgy's originals, charted with wit and swing.Band for the Joe Henderson LabCaity Gyorgy — vocalsMark Limacher — pianoThomas Heinbach — bassAroma Jr. — drumsAbout the guestA three-time JUNO winner (pronounced “George”), Caity Gyorgy writes and sings with a composer's clarity and a bebop musician's reflexes. Recent releases include the orchestral album Caity Gyorgy with Strings and duo projects with Mark Limacher that showcase her ear for melody and narrative.CreditsHost & production: Steve Roby / Backstage Bay AreaEditing & mix: Backstage Bay AreaMusic excerpts: courtesy of the artist---Show Info & LinksEvent: Caity Gyorgy — Joe Henderson Lab (SFJAZZ Center), San FranciscoDates: Nov 7–9, 2025Set times: Two sets Friday (7:00 PM & 8:30 PM); additional performances across the weekend—see event page for current times and availability.Tickets & info: SFJAZZ event pageArtist website: CaityGyorgy.com

Episode SummaryHector Flores of Las Cafeteras joins Steve to talk about Hasta La Muerte, the group's Day of the Dead production arriving at SFJAZZ. He traces the band's East L.A. activist roots, how son jarocho meets hip-hop and spoken word, and why participation—dancing, singing, dressing up—turns a concert into a communal ritual. Hector shares how Cocosparked a new wave of writing, why La Catrina becomes “La Santa de los Muertos,” and how a reimagined La Llorona story reframes grief as love.Hector Flores — vocalist, writer/poet, co-founder of Las Cafeteras (East L.A.). Community organizer turned bandleader; bridges traditional son jarocho with hip-hop cadence, dance, and poetry.Activist beginnings in East L.A. and how a collective became a bandThe sonic palette: jarana, requinto, leona, Afro-Colombian percussion, Indigenous drums, and tasteful electronicsWriting from lived experience: poems that become songs and stage narrativesHasta La Muerte onstage: five dancers, four musicians, vivid visuals, and storytelling through music and movementReimagining icons: La Catrina as La Santa de los Muertos; a compassionate retelling of La LloronaWhy audience participation matters: “come in costume,” sing, and dance—treat the hall like a plazaLimited-run vinyl at the merch table (cast and crew-signed)What's next for the production beyond the West CoastHasta La Muerte — Las CafeterasDate: Friday, October 31Venue: Miner Auditorium, SFJAZZ Center, 201 Franklin St., San FranciscoShowtime: 7:30 PM PT • Tickets via SFJAZZ. sfjazz.orgLas Cafeteras (official): https://lascafeteras.comHasta La Muerte (about): https://lascafeteras.com/hasta-la-muerteLas Cafeteras on Instagram: https://instagram.com/lascafeterasTickets (SFJAZZ): https://www.sfjazz.org/tickets/productions/25-26/las-cafeteras-hasta-la-muerte/ sfjazz.orgBackstage Bay Area: https://www.backstagebayarea.com“Hasta la Muerte” (official performance clip) — embed or link from Las Cafeteras' channel“Esta Noche” — sample the group's energy and instrumentationHost & Producer: Steve Roby — Backstage Bay AreaGuest: Hector Flores (Las Cafeteras)Editing/Mix: Backstage Bay AreaMusic used with permission of the artist.If you enjoyed this episode, follow and rate Backstage Bay Area on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube. Share the episode and tag @lascafeteras and @sfjazz to spread the word.#LasCafeteras #HastaLaMuerte #DiaDeLosMuertos #SFJAZZ #BackstageBayArea #BayAreaMusic #SonJarocho #EastLA

Podcast: Backstage Bay AreaHost: Steve RobyGuests: Nicolas Bearde (vocals) with special guest Tammy L. Hall (piano)Bay Area vocalist Nicolas Bearde joins Backstage Bay Area to talk about his Al Jarreau celebration at the Joe Henderson Lab. We trace his path from early R&B roots and Motown radio to a mature jazz voice shaped onstage with Bobby McFerrin—and how that journey informs a show that treats Jarreau's music as a living language. Nicolas shares insights on two signature tracks from his catalog, the art of collaboration, and what listeners can expect from this intimate, groove-forward tribute.·      Finding the seam between soul storytelling and jazz improvisation·      Lessons from performing with Bobby McFerrin and Voicestra·      The singers who shaped Nicolas's sound (Lou Rawls, Sarah Vaughan, Ella, Johnny Mathis—and, of course, Al Jarreau)·      Song spotlight #1: “Can We Pretend” (*Crossing the Line*)—why it remains a fan favorite worldwide·      Song spotlight #2: “Falling in Love Again” (*Visions*)—seven years in the making and finished with producer Larry Batiste·      Building the Jarreau set with Tammy L. Hall and band (Kevin Goldberg, Deszon Claiborne, Charles McNeal, Roberta Laurel)·      The emotional core of the show: “Not Like This” into “More Love,” plus the ongoing challenge and joy of “Spain”·      What's next: a new studio album in progress for early 2026 (working title: SEVYNI)·      Nicolas Bearde — vocals·      Tammy L. Hall — piano (music director)·      Kevin Goldberg — bass·      Deszon Claiborne — drums·      Charles McNeal — saxophone·      Roberta Laurel — vocals (harmonies/duets)Venue: Joe Henderson Lab at the SFJAZZ CenterDates & Times:·      Sat, Nov 8, 2025 — 7:00 PM & 8:30 PM·      Sun, Nov 9, 2025 — 6:00 PM & 7:30 PMTickets: https://www.sfjazz.orgArtist Website: https://www.nicolasbearde.comBackstage Bay Area: https://www.backstagebayarea.comSubscribe and rate the podcast wherever you listen.Share this episode with a friend who loves Al Jarreau's music.Produced and edited by Steve Roby for Backstage Bay Area.Music excerpts used with respect for the artists and venues featured.

Episode overviewKCSM 91.1 FM has been a lifeline for Bay Area jazz for six decades. Station Manager Dr. Robert Franklin joins Steve to talk about the station's live-curated sound, its massive library and preservation work, and the new documentary celebrating KCSM's history and community impact.Dr. Robert “Bob” Franklin — Station Manager, KCSM 91.1 FM; Executive Producer of KCSM: 60 Years of Broadcasting and Jazz.KCSM is one of the nation's last full-time jazz stations. Its curator-driven programming, archival footprint, and education mission make it a cornerstone of Bay Area music culture.·       How KCSM's “live curator” model builds a real-time bond with listeners.·       Inside the library: scope, preservation, and digitization efforts.·       The documentary's purpose—putting faces to the voices and placing KCSM within Bay Area cultural history.·       Student pathways via College of San Mateo and Studio 91.·       KCSM's community compact: listener support, local artist visibility, and freedom on the air.·       What “keeping jazz alive on Bay Area radio” looks like over the next decade.Host & Producer: Steve RobyShow: Backstage Bay Area Contact: backstagebayarea.comScreening InformationEvent: KCSM: 60 Years of Broadcasting and Jazz (documentary screening)Venue: Alameda Cinema, 2317 Central Ave., AlamedaDate & Time: Friday, November 1, 2:00 PMExtras: Post-film reception with refreshments; live DJ set by KCSM's Harry Duncan; tours of the California Historical Radio Society's vintage radios, historic studios, and hands-on broadcasting exhibits.Tickets & info: https://californiahistoricalradio.com/event/kcsm-documentary-screening-at-alameda-theater/Listen & support KCSM: https://www.kcsm.org

Backstage Bay Area – Episode with Amaro FreitasGuest: Amaro Freitas, acclaimed Brazilian jazz pianist and composerHost: Steve RobyEpisode Highlights:Introduction to Amaro Freitas, his Afro-Brazilian roots, and his unique approach to jazz piano.Amaro discusses his musical beginnings in Brazil, learning piano in church, and the influence of family and local musicians.Deep dive into Amaro's rhythmic style, blending African, Brazilian, and jazz traditions.Influences: Amaro shares how Chick Corea and other jazz legends shaped his sound and creative process.Stories from Amaro's career, including memorable performances and personal encounters with Chick Corea.Discussion of Amaro's latest album, "Y'Y," inspired by the Amazon, nature, ancestry, and the power of water.Exploration of the track "Encantados," its roots in Afro-Indigenous legends, and the spiritual connection between music, nature, and humanity.Amaro's approach to live performance, improvisation, and adapting his set for intimate venues like the Joe Henderson Lab at SF Jazz Center.Preview of upcoming shows in San Francisco, including details on setlists, improvisation, and audience interaction.Featured Tracks:"Y'Y" (title track)"Encantados"Upcoming Events:Amaro Freitas performing solo at the Joe Henderson Lab, SF Jazz Center, San Francisco.Four shows: Friday, October 24th & Saturday, October 25th, 7:00 PM and 8:30 PM.Tickets and info: sfjazz.orgLinks:Amaro Freitas Official WebsiteSF Jazz Center TicketsConnect:Follow Backstage Bay Area for more artist interviews and behind-the-scenes stories.Share the episode and join us at SFJAZZ

In this episode, host Steve Roby sits down with saxophonist and composer Nicole McCabe, co-leader of the genre-blending project Dolphin Hyperspace. Nicole shares her journey from growing up in Marin County, where she was inspired by both jazz and electronic music, to collaborating with bassist/producer Logan Kane. The conversation covers her musical influences (from Cannonball Adderley to Skrillex), the creative process behind Dolphin Hyperspace, and the stories behind tracks like "Minuscule Minnow" and "Mini Giraffe."Nicole also discusses her upcoming acoustic solo album "Color Theory" (produced by Jason Moran), the next Dolphin Hyperspace record "Echo Location," and her approach to live performance—especially in intimate venues like the Joe Henderson Lab at SFJAZZ.Featured topics:Blending jazz improvisation with electronic productionThe origins and evolution of Dolphin HyperspaceThe influence of Brazilian music and artists like Tom JobimLive performance dynamics and audience engagementUpcoming releases and collaborationsRelevant Links:Nicole McCabe's website: nicolemccabemusic.comDolphin Hyperspace on Bandcamp: Bandcamp (search "Dolphin Hyperspace" for direct link)SFJAZZ tickets: sfjazz.orgNicole's music on streaming platforms: Available on all major servicesFollow Nicole on Instagram: (Check her website for the latest social links)Upcoming Show:Dolphin Hyperspace at the Joe Henderson Lab, SFJAZZ CenterFriday, October 17th — Shows at 7:00 PM & 8:30 PMTickets: sfjazz.orgThanks for listening to Backstage Bay Area!

Episode Summary:In this episode, host Steve Roby sits down with Ivan Neville of Dumpstaphunk for a deep dive into the band's New Orleans roots, their message of unity, and the making of their latest music. Ivan shares stories about the band's evolving lineup, the inspiration behind their single “Let's Do It,” and the enduring power of collaboration. The conversation also covers their take on Buddy Miles' “United Nations Stomp,” the importance of social messages in their music, and what fans can expect at their upcoming San Francisco show at Miner Auditorium.Key Topics & Highlights:The current Dumpstaphunk touring lineup and each member's contribution.The story and spirit behind the single “Let's Do It,” including the late Nick Daniels II's influence.The collaborative songwriting and performance process within the band.The significance of “United Nations Stomp” and its message of unity, featuring Marcus King.Balancing danceable grooves with meaningful, socially conscious lyrics.Teasers for the upcoming show at SF Jazz Center's Miner Auditorium, including a special Bay Area tribute.How the band shapes their setlist to keep the New Orleans energy alive.Songs Featured:“Let's Do It” by Dumpstaphunk“United Nations Stomp” (Buddy Miles cover, featuring Marcus King)Links & Resources:Dumpstaphunk Official Website: https://dumpstaphunk.comSF Jazz Center (Tickets & Info): https://www.sfjazz.orgUpcoming Show:Dumpstaphunk performs Saturday, October 11th at 7:30 PM at Miner Auditorium, SF Jazz Center, San Francisco.Get your tickets: https://www.sfjazz.orgConnect with the Show:For more episodes and updates, follow Backstage Bay Area.

Episode SummaryOn this Backstage Bay Area episode, host Steven Roby sits down with Afro‑Indigenous singer and composer Martha Redbone to talk about her Harlan County roots, Brooklyn upbringing, and the call‑and‑response spirit she brings to the stage. We cover the stories behind her blend of Appalachian folk, gospel‑soul, blues, and jazz; the community‑minded ethos she calls “congregational music”; and what San Francisco can expect when she and her sextet turn Miner Auditorium into a Sunday‑night revival.What You'll HearMartha shares how family traditions, elders' stories, and a lifetime of listening shape her songwriting and live shows. She discusses collaborations with her husband and musical director Aaron Whitby, honors the often‑overlooked legacy of Black coal miners in Appalachia, and reflects on music as a tool for healing and togetherness. Expect singing, call‑and‑response, and a band built for groove and communion.GuestGuest: Martha Redbone is an award‑winning vocalist, songwriter, and composer of Cherokee/Choctaw and African American heritage. Her acclaimed projects include The Garden of Love: Songs of William Blake and original music (with Aaron Whitby) for the Broadway revival of  For colored Girls Who Have Considered Suicide / When the Rainbow Is Enuf. She tours nationally, leads workshops, and advocates for the preservation of culture.LinksTickets — SFJAZZ: Martha Redbone at Miner Auditorium: https://www.sfjazz.org/tickets/productions/25-26/martha-redbone/Artist — Martha Redbone (official site): https://martharedbone.com/Venue — SFJAZZ Center: https://www.sfjazz.org/Podcast — Backstage Bay Area: https://backstagebayarea.com/Call to ActionEnjoy the episode? Please follow/subscribe and share with a friend. If you're in the Bay Area, grab tickets and join us at Miner Auditorium.Hashtags#MarthaRedbone #SFJAZZ #MinerAuditorium #BackstageBayArea #AmericanRoots #IndigenousPeoplesDay #LiveMusicSF #GospelSoul #Appalachia #Brooklyn

SummaryTrumpeter Anthony Hervey and pianist Sean Mason unpack the soul-and-blues core behind their duo chemistry—why a Monk program belongs in an intimate room, how Hervey's “Du-Rag” reframes ragtime language for now, and why Mason's “Open Your Heart” asks players and listeners to lead with emotion. We talk repertoire choices for the Joe Henderson Lab, the living-room vibe they aim for, and how spontaneity shapes their sets.Anthony Hervey — official site: anthonyherveymusic.com. ANTHONY HERVEYAlbum — Words From My Horn (includes “Du-Rag”): Outside In Music / Bandcamp. Outside in MusicSean Mason — official site: seanmasonofficial.com. The Sean Mason StoreAlbum — The Southern Suite (Blue Engine Records): album page. Jazz at Lincoln Center+1Single — “Open Your Heart” (official studio video): YouTube. YouTubeAnthony Hervey & Sean Mason — Joe Henderson Lab, SFJAZZ (Monk & Originals): tickets/info at SFJAZZ.org. sfjazz.orgThe duo's “living-room” approach at the Joe Henderson LabThe roots of “Du-Rag”: ragtime strains, gospel color, and Hervey/Mason's dialogueWhy “Open Your Heart” pivots from ballad glow to spontaneous double-timeSet-to-set variety, audience conversation, and letting the music choose the pathWebsite & archives: BackstageBayArea.com. Backstage Bay AreaYouTube channel (full episodes & clips): @BackstageBayArea. YouTubeHost/Producer: Steven Roby (Backstage Bay Area)Music featured with permission of the artists and labels.#BackstageBayArea #AnthonyHervey #SeanMason #SFJAZZ #JoeHendersonLab #TheloniousMonk #WordsFromMyHorn #TheSouthernSuite #JazzPodcastPhoto credit: EBAR

Episode summaryGRAMMY-nominated songwriter, multi-instrumentalist, and producer Becca Stevens joins us to explore the craft of writing and arranging for intimate settings, how open tunings and guitar shapes influence her harmony, and the emotional core behind Maple to Paper — a voice-and-guitar project that values vulnerability, presence, and truth. She also speaks openly about motherhood on the road and the real-world adjustments venues and presenters can make to better support touring parents. What we cover·      Early influences spanning folk, jazz, and chamber music—and how those genres converge in her songs.·      Why open tunings invite fresh harmonic colors and lyric–melody interplay.·      Arranging for duo/small ensemble: leaving space, shaping counter-melodies, and pacing dynamics.·      Motherhood on tour: barriers artists face and practical changes the industry can implement now.·      What listeners can expect from these intimate performances: storytelling, reimagined favorites, and new material. Music in this episode·      “Now Feels Bigger Than The Past”  from the album Maple to Paper (GroundUP Music, 2024)·      “I'm Not Her” from the album Maple to Paper (GroundUP Music, 2024) Links• Artist website:https://beccastevens.com Show details (Bay Area)• Event: Becca Stevens• Where: Joe Henderson Lab at SFJAZZ Center• When: October 14–15 (four shows, two nightly)• Showtimes: 7:00 p.m. & 8:30 p.m.• Tickets:https://www.sfjazz.org/ CreditsHosted and produced by Steve Roby for Backstage Bay Area.Audio clips used with artist/label permission. Tags/SEOBecca Stevens, Maple to Paper, jazz folk, open tunings, Joe Henderson Lab, SFJAZZ, touring mothers, songwriter interview.

Episode SummarySaxophonist, composer, and theater-maker Idris Ackamoor joins us to talk about Afrofuturism, ensemble storytelling, and why his performances are designed as communal happenings—part ritual, part dance-floor communion. We get into the craft behind his “artistic being” approach, the power of spoken word in jazz contexts, and how rhythm, memory, and movement drive his music.Idris Ackamoor is a Chicago-born, Bay Area–based bandleader and co-founder of Cultural Odyssey and The Pyramids. A pioneering voice in Afrofuturist jazz, his work blends West African rhythmic foundations with improvisation, theater, and multimedia staging.How he defines an “artistic being” and turns daily practice into finished compositionsThe Pyramids as an ensemble for theater, dance, and groove—music that moves people (literally)Collaborating with spoken-word icons Danny Glover and Rhodessa Jones and writing for distinctive voices“The Grandma Cole Story”: turning family memory into melody, rhythm, and testimonyAfrofuturism as compass: studies and travels that shaped his sound and stagecraftProtest music built for the body and the mind—clarity, groove, and human perspective (“Police Dem”)Set design like cinema: seamless transitions, projection, and audience participationLegacy and ownership: why preserving masters and publishing matters to the art“I call myself an artistic being… sometimes a melody appears on the piano, sometimes on the horn—I follow it until it grows.”“When you hear me play, I want you to know it's me and no one else.”“This is about participation—breaking down the wall—so the audience becomes part of the experience.”“I get to the meat of it through the human perspective. The groove invites you in; the words ask you to stay awake.”Host & Producer: Steve Roby — Backstage Bay AreaGuest: Idris AckamoorEditing/Mix: Steve RobyArtist: Idris Ackamoor / The Pyramids – official site, socials, and music streamingCultural Odyssey – background on Ackamoor's performing arts workLabel: Strut Records – catalogue and archivesPhoto: Pat Mazzera

Episode summaryViolinist–vocalist Yilian Cañizares joins Backstage Bay Area to talk about the musical DNA that powers her work—classical discipline, Afro-Cuban tradition, and the open-ended spirit of jazz. She reflects on the new single “Ore,” the cross-Atlantic pulse of “Habana-Bahia,” and the next chapters: a fall EP and her full-length album Vitamina Y. Along the way, Yilian opens up about freedom, ritual, collaboration, and how she wants audiences to feel when the trio takes the stage.GuestYilian Cañizares is a Havana-born, Switzerland-based artist known for fusing conservatory-level violin with Afro-diasporic rhythm and improvisation. A Montreux Jazz Festival awardee, she tours internationally with a trio featuring Childo Thomas (bass) and Inor Sotolongo (percussion).Highlights (no timestamps)The meaning of “freedom” in her music: composing, improvising, and singing from an honest place.The backstory of “Ore”: a gift from childhood friend Yasser “El Gozo” that reconnects her to Cuban roots and the diaspora.Crafting “Habana-Bahia” in Salvador, Brazil: sisterhood, women's empowerment, and the Cuba–Bahia link through Africa.Why the trio format (violin/voice, bass, percussion) is the perfect vehicle for spontaneity and audience connection.Vitamina Y: the “vitamin people” who nourish her life and the album's goal to uplift listeners.The rollout plan: “Vamos Florescer!” and more singles leading to the full album release.What to expect live at SFJAZZ's Joe Henderson Lab: intimate room, evolving setlists, and early previews of new material.Music referenced in this episode (with permission)“Ore” (single)“Habana-Bahia” (title track from the 2023 project)“Vamos Florescer!” (from the forthcoming Vitamina Y rollout)Quotes “Jazz, for me, is freedom—the freedom to express how I feel in the moment and to share my vision of the world.”“Every song has to come from a place of honesty, where people can know my heart a little better.”“We want to deliver something unique every time we play.”LinksArtist website: yiliancanizares.comTickets: SFJAZZ.org → Joe Henderson Lab, Yilian Cañizares (Sept 25–26; 7:00 & 8:30 p.m.)Backstage Bay Area: BackstageBayArea.comCreditsHost & producer: Steven RobyAudio editing & post: Backstage Bay AreaArtwork/Photography: Frank SochaHashtags#YilianCañizares #VitaminaY #BackstageBayArea #AfroCubanJazz #JazzViolin #SFJAZZ #JoeHendersonLab #HabanaBahia #Ore #BayAreaMusicCall to actionIf you enjoyed this conversation, follow Backstage Bay Area on your favorite podcast platform and leave a rating or short review—it helps more listeners discover the show.

Show Notes:On this episode of the Backstage Bay Area Podcast, host Steve Roby sits down with the legendary Paquito D'Rivera—multi-Grammy-winning saxophonist, clarinetist, and composer—for a lively conversation that bridges continents, genres, and generations.Paquito shares the inspiration behind his acclaimed album, Jazz Meets the Classics, revealing how his father's classical roots and his own love for improvisation shaped a project that reimagines European and New World composers through a jazz lens. Hear how Chopin's "Fantasia Impromptu" gets a Cuban and Brazilian twist, and why Bach might just be the original bebopper.The episode features insights into the creative process, the art of improvisation, and the unique chemistry of Paquito's quintet—featuring Diego Urcola (trumpet), Oscar Stagnaro (bass), Mark Walker (drums), and Alex Brown (piano). Paquito also previews his upcoming performances at the SFJAZZ Center's Miner Auditorium, promising two nights of surprises, spontaneity, and musical magic.Links & Resources:Tickets for Paquito D'Rivera at SFJAZZ: sfjazz.orgPaquito D'Rivera's official website: paquitodrivera.comMore about the album: Jazz Meets the ClassicsDon't miss:The story behind "Fantasia Impromptu" and its journey from Chopin to HavanaWhy every live jazz show is a new adventureWhat makes performing in the Bay Area special for PaquitoSubscribe, share, and join us backstage for a masterclass in musical fusion!Photo by: Geandy Pabon

Show Notes:In this episode of Backstage Bay Area, host Steve Roby sits down with acclaimed alto saxophonist Sarah Hanahan. Sarah shares her musical upbringing, the influence of jazz legends, and the story behind her debut album, "Among Giants." The conversation explores her approach to honoring jazz tradition, building stamina as a performer, and the creative process behind her original compositions.You'll also hear about Sarah's upcoming performances at the Joe Henderson Lab at SFJAZZ, her dynamic quartet, and what audiences can expect from her live shows. The episode features tracks from "Among Giants," including “Resonance” and “Stardust,” and offers a behind-the-scenes look at Sarah's passion for music and history.Links Mentioned:Tickets & info for Sarah Hanahan at SFJAZZ: https://www.sfjazz.orgLearn more about Sarah Hanahan and her music: https://www.sarahhan.comSubscribe to Backstage Bay Area for more exclusive interviews and insights from the vibrant music scene!

Episode Summary:Legendary guitarist and multimedia artist Andy Summers (The Police) joins Steve Roby on Backstage Bay Area to discuss his innovative one-man show, which focuses on live guitar, storytelling, and evocative photography. Andy shares insights into his creative process, the evolution of his performance, and the threads connecting his music, visual art, and writing.Highlights:Andy's multimedia show: A blend of live guitar, narration, and a curated sequence of his photography, creating an immersive, cinematic experience.The Evolution of the Show: How Technical Improvements and Growing Confidence Have Shaped His Stage Presence and Storytelling.Artistic connections: Andy's thoughts on sensibility as the common thread between music, photography, and narrative.Behind the scenes: The technical setup and the intimate feel of performing in smaller theaters.Revisiting collaborations: Reflections on his work with Robert Fripp and the rediscovery of unreleased tracks.The Police legacy: Andy's perspective on archival releases, box sets, and the enduring appeal of the band's music.Creative process: Scoring his own images, the abstract relationship between music and photography, and the ongoing evolution of his work.New projects: Hints at a novel set in Japan and upcoming performances, including the San Francisco show at the Presidio Theater.Event Info:An Evening with Andy SummersSaturday, September 27th, 7:30 PMPresidio Theater, San FranciscoTickets: presidiotheater.orgMore info: andysummers.comThanks for listening to Backstage Bay Area!

Show Notes:Welcome to Backstage Bay Area! In this episode, host Steve Roby sits down with Grammy Award-winning pianist, composer, and bandleader Arturo O'Farrill for a deep dive into the intersections of music, activism, and community.About the Guest:Arturo O'Farrill is a celebrated figure in the world of Afro-Latin jazz, founder of the nonprofit Lango, and a passionate advocate for social change through music. From his early days with the Carla Bley Band to his leadership of the Afro Latin Jazz Ensemble, Arturo's career is a testament to curiosity, integrity, and fearless creativity.In This Episode:Arturo reflects on his evolving approach to the piano and ensemble leadership, emphasizing relaxation, honesty, and the importance of humor in jazz.The Influence of Carla Bley: Lessons in Following Your Muse, Writing with Integrity, and the Power of Laughter in Music.Behind the new album “Mundoagua”: honoring Carla Bley's legacy while forging a distinct artistic voice and exploring the environmental and political themes woven into the music.The story and emotion behind “Blue Palestine” and how music can be a vehicle for social consciousness.Arturo's upcoming opera, “Lucero,” is inspired by real-life events, tackling hate crimes, and blending avant-garde textures with South American folk traditions.The vision for Casa Belongó in East Harlem is to create a vibrant, inclusive space for music, art, and community belonging.The role of Afro-Latin traditions in contemporary jazz, and why the arts truly belong to the people.What to expect at Arturo's upcoming show at the SF Jazz Center, and his philosophy on audience participation and the communal spirit of live performance.Key Moments:The transformative power of relaxing at the pianoCarla Bley's lessons on curiosity, integrity, and humorThe making of “Mundoagua” and its environmental messageThe opera “Lucero” and confronting social injustice through artBuilding Casa Belongó: a home for creativity and communityThe global roots and future of Afro-Latin jazzDon't Miss:Arturo O'Farrill and the Afro Latin Jazz Ensemble live at the SF Jazz Center's Minor Auditorium, Sunday, September 28th at 7:00 PM. For tickets and info, visit sfjazz.org.Learn more about Arturo's work at arturoofarrill.com.Subscribe to Backstage Bay Area for more conversations with the artists shaping the music scene.

Show NotesBackstage Bay Area welcomes the vibrant Afro-Cuban duo, OKAN—Elizabeth Rodriguez and Magdelys Savigne—for an inspiring discussion about music, identity, and resilience.In this episode, host Steve Roby dives deep with OKAN as they share:Their humble start at making music in a Toronto basement and finding their creative voices.The meaning behind the name "OKAN" and how honoring their roots and heart shapes their sound.Balancing life as musicians, partners, and parents on the road—including stories of their young son joining them on stage.Collaborating with Brazilian multi-instrumentalist Munir Hossn on their new single "PomPom" and exploring the unique process of blending Afro-Cuban and Afro-Brazilian influences.Their songwriting process, the importance of supporting women composers, and how spiritual well-being and self-love fuel their art. The making of their Juno-winning album "OKAN Tumi," and a sneak peek at their upcoming, more digitally influenced fourth album.What to expect at their upcoming SF Jazz shows—featuring new music, dance floor energy, and a family affair on stage.Tune in for exclusive tracks, behind-the-scenes stories, and a celebration of music that unites cultures and generations.Featured Music:"Pompom" (with Munir Hossn)"OKAN Tumi"“Me Merezco” – Exclusive previewUpcoming Shows:Catch OKAN at SF Jazz's Joe Henderson Lab for four shows over two nights—details and tickets are available at sfjazz.org. For more music and tour dates, visit okanmusica.com.Listen now for a journey of heart, rhythm, and the power of believing in your own voice.