David Schroeder, Sonny Rollins, Ardeshir & Alex Abramovitz

From the heart of Kansas City, we kick off the 965th Episode of Neon Jazz in high-flying style with Alex Abramovitz and His Swing'n Kansas City Jazz Band, featuring the infectious energy of their new 2026 live release, Jumpin' on Grand: Live at Black Dolphin. It's the perfect opening to a vibrant hour celebrating the city's rich jazz tradition. Keeping the festive spirit alive, we honor Kansas City's moment on the global stage as it welcomes the world for the FIFA World Cup, with the fitting sounds of Godiva Jazz and selections from their spirited 2026 release, World Cup Jazz. The journey continues with exclusive interviews and musical spotlights featuring David Schroeder, Mark Tonelli, Mark Wade, and Sarah Sharp, each bringing fresh perspectives and exciting new music to the conversation. Along the way, we pay tribute to jazz greatness with unforgettable performances from Sonny Rollins, Al Hirt, Oliver-Smith Incomparables, and Brad Goode, creating a rich tapestry that bridges generations of jazz artistry. As this memorable hour draws to a close, The Amstel Jazz Ensemble provides the perfect finale, wrapping the episode in warmth, elegance, and swing. Settle in for another outstanding edition of Neon Jazz—where the music is timeless, the stories are inspiring, and the spirit of jazz is always alive.

Playlist

• Alex Abramovitz & His Swing'n Kansas City Jazz Band "Fountain City Jive" Jumpin' on Grand Live at Black Dolphin (Jazz Daddy Records) 0:00
• Host talks 6:04
• Gotiva Jazz "Match Day" World Cup Jazz (11582602 Records DK) 8:13
• David Schroeder "A Kind and Gentle Light" A Kind and Gentle Light (Combo Nuvo Records) 11:20
• Host talks 15:50
• Sonny Rollins "Conception" Miles Davis X Sonny Rollins (UME Recordings) 17:51
• Mark Tonelli "Twenty One Biscuits" Brasilliana (Mark Tonelli) 21:17
• Host talks 26:22
• Al Hirt "That's a-Plenty" Al Hirt at the Mardis Gras (RCA Victor) 27:46
• Mark Wade "The Good Doctor Gradus" New Stages (Dot Time Records) 30:48
• Host talks 33:16
• Oliver-Smith Incomparables "Jimtown Blues" Stomp Your Stuff (Oliver-Smith Incomparables) 34:27
• Ardeshir "The Eternal Triangle" Introducing Ardeshir (Cellar Live) 37:33
• Host talks 42:48
• Brad Goode Quintet "Someday My Prince will Come" Live Your Dream (Live At North Street Cabaret) (OA2 Records) 43:31
• Sarah Sharp "Don't Think Twice, It's All Right" Deja Vu (Spaceflight Records) 46:58
• Host talks 52:45
• The Amstel Jazz Ensemble "Joy Spring" First State Blues (Summit Records) 54:00