The Stereo Image

In this episode, Mike chats with former Chicago Tribune music critic, Howard Reich. Howard shares his journey from being a jazz critic to becoming an accidental filmmaker and opera writer. He emphasizes the role of music in storytelling and the importance of critics in promoting lesser-known artists. He also reflects on his transition to new artistic mediums like opera and ballet, celebrating the legacy of musicians and the power of music to shape identity and experience. More Info for this episode: Gershwin's Piano Concerto in F (YouTube) An American in Paris trailer (YouTube) Makoto Ozone - pianist (YouTube) Patricia Barber - pianist (YouTube) Kurt Elling (YouTube) Mike Jones - Duke Ellington Medley (YouTube) Prisoner of Her Past - Book by Howard Reich The Art of Inventing Hope - Book by Howard Reich Kimikos Pearl - Ballet inspired by Howard Reich For the Left Hand - Documentary by Howard Reich   From Howard’s website: Howard was born in Chicago and at age 10 moved with his family to Skokie, a northern suburb that was a nexus of Holocaust survivors, like his parents. At age 16, Howard happened on the film “An American in Paris” and instantly became obsessed with music. By 18 he was a piano performance major at Northwestern, and at 22 he began freelancing articles on music for the Chicago Daily News. The next year he started contributing arts coverage to the Chicago Tribune, where he was hired full time in 1983 and spent his entire newspaper career. Howard’s stories took him to London, Paris, Warsaw, Vienna, Moscow, Munich, Prague, Havana, Panama and other locales, as well as deep into one of the most culturally vibrant cities in the world: Chicago. Howard served for 32 years as the Tribune’s jazz critic, the last three years doubling as classical/opera critic. He retired from the newspaper in 2021, continues writing for the stage and page, and lives in a Chicago suburb with Pam Becker, his wife, a retired Tribune editor. Mike Jones bio: Born and raised in Buffalo, NY, Jones attended Berklee College of Music in Boston, and after college he remained in the city, working with such eminent local players as Herb Pomeroy and Gray Sargent. After significant East Coast performances, appearances at the Floating Jazz Festival on the S.S. Norway and the Queen Elizabeth ll, and a series of recordings that established him as a world-class pianist steeped in the pre-bop jazz tradition, Jones relocated to Las Vegas. There he caught the ear of Penn Jillette who, in 2002, brought Jones onboard for the nightly Penn and Teller show at Rio All-Suite Hotel and Casino.

Our latest guest is Ashley Kahn, author, educator, and deep thinker! He and Mike discuss how people discover and listen to music today and how it differs from the past. More info for this episode: Paul Simon's Graceland (YouTube) Dr John - There Must Be A Better World Somewhere (YouTube) International Society of Jazz Arrangers & Composers John Beasley - pianist Tuesday's Just As Bad Radio Show Hot Tuna Blues (YouTube) The Universal Tone By Ashley Kahn Monty Alexander - pianist Montreux Alexander (YouTube) Kenny Banks Jr - Take 5 (YouTube) Theo Croker   From Wikipedia: Ashley Kahn (b. 1960) is an American music historian, journalist, and producer. He was born in the Bronx, New York, and was raised in Cincinnati. Kahn graduated from Columbia University in 1983. While attending Columbia, he hosted a jazz and blues radio show on WKCR, and was known on the air as "The Cincinnati Kid." In 2014, Kahn co-authored the autobiography of Carlos Santana, titled The Universal Tone: Bringing My Story To Light. To date, his most critically acclaimed books have been on two major jazz albums, Kind of Blue by Miles Davis and A Love Supreme by John Coltrane. He pens articles, interviews and other features on music, and is a prolific liner note writer for a variety of music labels, and for which he has earned three ASCAP/Deems Taylor awards, and three Grammy nominations. In 2015, he was awarded a Grammy for his album notes to the John Coltrane release Offering: Live at Temple University.

This week’s episode features Marc Myers. If you are a lover of all things music, Marc is the man for you. If you appreciate music's history and evolution, Marc is the man for you. If you have always wanted to get into jazz music but just didn’t know where to begin or what to listen for, Marc is the man for you! Marc is the creator of JazzWax which hosts a wealth of history, stories, opinions, and more about jazz and other forms of music. We talk a little about the musicians Marc has known over the years and what it’s like to meet them. Marc and Mike share their opinions of rock and jazz and the musical process. Marc is fascinating to talk to. Marc Myers is a frequent music and arts contributor to The Wall Street Journal. He writes two regular columns—“House Call,” in which he interviews Hollywood actors on their childhood years, and “Album@50,” on pop albums celebrating a 50th anniversary and how they changed music history. He is the author of “Why Jazz Happened,” two volumes of “Anatomy of a Song” and “Rock Concert: An Oral History.” He posts five days a week at his award-winning JazzWax.com blog, launched in 2007.

This week, Mike is talking with Jason Garfield. Jason is a great juggler. But don’t roll your eyes at that. He does a lot of other things too! Jason is trying to get juggling into the Olympics and he talks a little about the struggles involved in that. He is also a fitness buff and he and Mike have a lot to say about that. Mostly Mike which is odd since Jason is the expert. Jason also learned to play the piano… sort of . He has opinions about that too. We had a great time talking with Jason and we hope you enjoy it too! More info for this episode: Valentina Lisitsa playing Hungarian Rhapsody No. 2 (YouTube) Valentina Lisitsa playing Moonlight Sonata 3rd Mvmt (YouTube) Jason Garfield's 5 ring color change (YouTube) The World Juggling Federation Eminem - Houdini (YouTube) Rhythmic Gymnastics - Varfolomeev's ball routine (YouTube) Jason Garfield's Fast Food series (YouTube) Leafside Meals   Jason Garfield's bio: Jason started juggling when he was 11 years old.  He went on to win International Juggling Association championships and World Juggling Federation championships.  He has performed on cruise ships, television, and across the internet.  Additionally, he has produced programs for ESPN and others related to juggling and fitness.  Currently he is not only a professional performer but also a fitness and health coach.    

In a first for this podcast (and probably many others) our guest is a magic dragon! Of course his lovely and talented sidekick, Jade Simone, is here too! In fact, while Piff has many musical opinions, Jade is the one with the extensive musical background. This episode is kind of a free-for-all. It’s what you would expect from a dragon. Among the fray, many musical opinions are expressed. In the end, we learn that AI is coming for us all, including dragons! Because this was recorded at Piff & Jade’s recording lair, who is hosting the show is a little uncertain at times. Luckily Jade is there to anchor the chaos. It was so much fun talking with Piff & Jade.  We hope you have as much fun listening to this episode as we did recording it. More info for this episode: Animal Planet: The Haunted (Wikipedia link) David Byrne (YouTube link) Miles Davis - Kind of Blue (YouTube link) Norah Jones (YouTube link) Mike Jones Trio - Are You Sure You Three Guys Know What You're Doing? Piff's first appearance on Fool Us (YouTube link) Piff & Pop's UK Tour Andy Paley (Wikipedia link) Suno AI Music           Piff & Jade bio: Piff is a British magician who came to fame on Penn & Teller’s Fool Us. He moved to the US where he began performing in Las Vegas and appearing on America’s Got Talent along with his partner, Jade Simone. Jade grew up in Dallas, Texas and performed as an emcee and showgirl for several years before teaming up with Piff. You can see them nightly at the Flamingo Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas or on tour around the world. Mike Jones bio: Born and raised in Buffalo, NY, Jones attended Berklee College of Music in Boston, and after college he remained in the city, working with such eminent local players as Herb Pomeroy and Gray Sargent. After significant East Coast performances, appearances at the Floating Jazz Festival on the S.S. Norway and the Queen Elizabeth ll, and a series of recordings that established him as a world-class pianist steeped in the pre-bop jazz tradition, Jones relocated to Las Vegas. There he caught the ear of Penn Jillette who, in 2002, brought Jones onboard for the nightly Penn and Teller show at Rio All-Suite Hotel and Casino.

For the month of September, Mike is talking to 2 of his good friends. He talks to them separately but they make up a comedy-juggling duo who have performed together for many years. Because of that, the humor gets a little… sarcastic, biting, and even sometimes harsh. With that disclaimer out of the way… Today Mike talks with Scotty Meltzer. Scotty is the other half of the juggling-comedy duo at Comedy Industries. Scotty is incredibly smart, funny, articulate, and LOVES being the butt of the joke. That is certainly evident throughout this discussion! Mike and Scotty discuss Scotty’s bad taste in music that originated from a childhood in musical theater and drumming. They talk about how that translates to a corporate juggling act that relies on comedy and the variety arts to hype up an otherwise mundane message. More info from this episode: 24 TV Show (Wikipedia) Ribbons Down My Back (YouTube) Katie Thiroux (YouTube) Michael Goudeau (Wikipedia) Ethel Merman - There's No Business Like Show Business (YouTube) Sutton Foster - Anything Goes (YouTube) Cynthia Erivo & Herbie Hancock - Fly Me To The Moon (YouTube) Prog Rock (Wikipedia) From Scotty’s website bio: Scott Meltzer (known as Scotty to his friend) is head writer and a principle performer for Comedy Industries. Scott has degrees in computer science and mathematics from U. C. Berkeley where he graduated with honors. An ex-IBMer and a Watson Scholar, Scott chooses to spend his time writing comedy and juggling knives on a six-foot unicycle while escaping from more straitjackets than any other computer programmer in the world. He’s also appeared on ESPN as the expert commentator for their coverage of The World Juggling Federation competitions. Comedy Industries Mike Jones bio: Born and raised in Buffalo, NY, Jones attended Berklee College of Music in Boston, and after college he remained in the city, working with such eminent local players as Herb Pomeroy and Gray Sargent. After significant East Coast performances, appearances at the Floating Jazz Festival on the S.S. Norway and the Queen Elizabeth ll, and a series of recordings that established him as a world-class pianist steeped in the pre-bop jazz tradition, Jones relocated to Las Vegas. There he caught the ear of Penn Jillette who, in 2002, brought Jones onboard for the nightly Penn and Teller show at Rio All-Suite Hotel and Casino.

Today Mike talks with Katrine Spang-Hanssen. She is a great juggler and drummer, a funny conversationalist, a lovely person, and one half of Comedy Industries. Mike and Katrine discuss their love of jazz music, their experiences with other music growing up, and what it’s like to work in a performing duo. Of course the ultimate performing duo, Penn & Teller, come up numerous times. Katrine is from Denmark! We’ll get that out of the way now because Mike continues a long running joke of confusing where she is from. But! She has lived in San Francisco for many years and tells about experiencing juggling and music in the bay area from the 1990’s to today. For the month of September, Mike is talking to 2 of his good friends. He talks to them separately but they make up a comedy-juggling duo who have performed together for many years. Because of that, the humor gets a little… sarcastic, biting, and even sometimes harsh. With that disclaimer out of the way… More Info for this episode: Nat Cole Trio - Bring Another Drink (YouTube) Styx playlist on YouTube Abba Greatist Hits playlist on YouTube Jesus Christ Superstar playlist on YouTube Penn & Teller's Secret to a 50 Year Partnership - article in New York Times From Katrine’s website bio: Katrine Spang-Hanssen is one the world’s premiere female jugglers. She has toured the world opening for stars such as Kenny Rodgers, Willie Nelson, and Natalie Cole. She’s performed at hundreds of comedy clubs, fairs, festivals, colleges, and theater productions. Together with Scott Meltzer and the rest of the CI group, she has performed an infinite number of trade show presentations and sales meetings, presenting for corporate clients ranging from startups in 10×10 booths along the back wall to Fortune 100 diamond sponsors. Katrine & Scotty's juggling duo: Comedy Industries Katrine's band: Shake It Booty Band Mike Jones bio: Born and raised in Buffalo, NY, Jones attended Berklee College of Music in Boston, and after college he remained in the city, working with such eminent local players as Herb Pomeroy and Gray Sargent. After significant East Coast performances, appearances at the Floating Jazz Festival on the S.S. Norway and the Queen Elizabeth ll, and a series of recordings that established him as a world-class pianist steeped in the pre-bop jazz tradition, Jones relocated to Las Vegas. There he caught the ear of Penn Jillette who, in 2002, brought Jones onboard for the nightly Penn and Teller show at Rio All-Suite Hotel and Casino.

Jonesy and Michael Close explore the intertwined worlds of music and magic, delving into Michael's early influences, his journey into both fields, and the challenges he faced as a performer in Las Vegas. They discuss the importance of mentorship, the evolution of live music in Vegas, and the realities of pursuing a career in the arts. In their conversation, Jonesy and Michael Close delve into the intricacies of cocktail piano performances, the challenges of solo gigs, and the evolution of audience engagement. They share memorable stories from their musical journeys, reflect on their influences, and discuss the impact of technology on music learning. The conversation also touches on the future of jazz and the role of magic in entertainment, particularly through the lens of the television show 'Fool Us.' More info from this episode Dave McKenna plays Nobody Else But Me (YouTube) Ben Patterson at the Green Mill (YouTube) Lance Burton (YouTube) Penn & Teller's Fool Us on the CW   More info about Mike Close Mike Close Magic by Mike Close on Vanishing Magic, Inc  

Our guest this week is the indomitable actor, Dean Cameron!  You may have seen him in Summer School, Ski School, or the TV show for Fast Times at Ridgemont High.  Or you've seen him in one of his numerous other acting gigs that don't involve school. In addition to acting, he plays in a fun band called Low Speed Chase and he wrote (with the help of his Nigerian friend) and acted in a hilarious play called Nigerian Spam Scam Scam. We talk about all that and his experiences growing up and getting into music as well.  Check him out! More information from this show: Coreyoke (on YouTube) Led Zeppelin 77 Tour at the Forum in LA (on YouTube) Nigeriam Spam Scam Scam (on YouTube) More about Dean Cameron and Low Speed Chase Dean Cameron's Website Dean Cameron on IMDB Low Speed Chase Music Low Speed Chase on Instagram

Welcome to Part 2 of Mike's talk with Hank O'Neal.  In Part 1 we discussed the creation of Chiaroscuro Records and Hank's work on the jazz cruises.  In this part Hank shares more stories from the jazz cruises as well as discussions about his photography and his "government work" in which he has since made a donation to the CIA museum...  Additionally, they discuss the art of photography, capturing moments, and the changing value of creative work in today's digital age.  Hank is a renaissance man who has experienced so much of history and technology in the later part of the 20th century. More information about topics in this episode: Hank's personal website with info about his photography and books Hank's photos from the jazz cruises Chiaroscuro Records - Classic Jazz Archives  

This week we present part 1 of Mike's chat with Hank O'Neal.  In this first part, Hank shares his journey through the world of jazz music, detailing the founding and evolution of Chiaroscuro Records, his early musical influences, and the innovative concept of jazz cruises. With anecdotes about legendary musicians and insights into the music industry, Hank provides a rich tapestry of experiences that highlight the importance of creativity and passion in music. Jonesy and Hank discuss the evolving landscape of jazz music, the significance of jazz cruises, and the memorable experiences shared with legendary musicians. They delve into the journey of building a recording studio and the evolution of Chiaroscuro in the 70's, 80's, and 90's. Learn more about some of the topics discussed: Chiaroscuro Records Hank O'Neal on Wikipedia Sherman Fairchild on Wikipedia Indian Love Call from Rose Marie vs. Indian Love Call by Artie Shaw    

This week, Jonesy and Jon Bates explore the profound impact of music on personal experiences, the cultural shifts of the 1960s, and the journey of navigating a career in the music industry. Jon shares his early influences, the significance of live music, and the challenges he faced, including addiction. The discussion highlights the importance of mentorship, networking, and understanding the business side of music, all while celebrating the universal language of music that connects us all. In this engaging conversation, Jon Bates shares vivid memories of his experiences in the vibrant jazz scene of New York City, particularly around Christopher Street during a transformative era. He recounts his time working at Chiaroscuro Records, the challenges and triumphs of navigating the music industry, and the impact of substance abuse on musicians.  More information about topics in this episode: Chiaroscuro Records Louie Bellson on Wikipedia Buddy Rich on Wikipedia Christopher Street in New York City More on Jon Bates: The Jon Bates Band      

In this conversation, Eric Montzka shares his journey as a drummer in the Chicago music scene, discussing his early influences, professional experiences, and the evolution of live music. He reflects on the importance of wedding bands, the impact of technology on music, and the future of jazz performance. The discussion highlights the challenges and joys of being a musician in today's world, emphasizing the enduring love for music despite industry changes.   More information on topics from this episode: Eric Montzka Discography The Green Mill in Chicago Patricia Barber Pink Floyd's Breathe - open in YouTube  

This week I talked with Todd McCaffrey.  He is a fantasy and science fiction author and an AI enthusiast.  Todd took a break from packing up to move to Ireland to get a degree in Cyber Psychology to talk with me.  We discuss his upbringing and how he got into writing along with his mom, Anne McCaffrey.  Over the years he has served in the military, been a computer programmer, become a pilot, written almost 100 books, and so much more.  He has helped continue the fantasy series his mom started, The Dragonriders of Pern, and written several of his own. I hope you enjoy my talk with Todd McCaffrey!   Todd McCaffrey's website Rocket City Boys - the book that inspired Todd to study Cyber Psychology Anne McCaffrey on the Pern Fandom Wiki Dragonriders of Pern series

This week on The Stereo Image, I talk with Dara Gottfried.  You might know her as the wife of Gilbert Gottfried but she has had a really cool and fascinating career as a music executive before even meeting Gilbert.  We talk about the music industry in the 90's and how it's so different from today.  We also talk about Gilbert and how much of a genius he was.   I hope you enjoy this episode of The Stereo Image! Follow us on Instagram or Blue Sky for lots more!   Links to topics discussed in this episode: Gilbert Gottfried's Amazing Colossal Podcast Arlene Gottfried's Photography Matchbox 20

This week, I am joined by Bill Prady.  You may know some of his work:  The Big Bang Theory and even the Muppets.  Bill is a friend from way back.  We discuss his recent foray into saxophone playing.  I've heard him and he's really good.   We also discuss listening to music really getting into and enjoying the sound.  I had a great time chatting with him and I think you'll enjoy him too. More information from this episode: Ray Brown counting in Lined with a Groove with a phone ring Betty Buckley (Wikipedia) Christian Jacob (Wikipedia) Marantz receivers Ron Carter (Wikipedia) More about Bill Prady: Bill Prady on IMDB Bill Prady on Wikipedia Bill Prady on Instagram        

David Silverman is a fantastic artist and animator.  You might have heard of the show he works on: The Simpsons.  But he's also a fantastic tuba player and a fount of knowledge about classical music.  His enthusiasm knows no bounds! In this engaging conversation, David Silverman shares his journey through music, from his early influences in classical and jazz to his deep appreciation for 20th-century composers. He reflects on the pivotal moments that shaped his musical understanding and the connections he made with fellow musicians. The discussion highlights the importance of education in music and the unique fascination with low instruments, showcasing Silverman's passion and insights into the world of music. In this conversation, David Silverman discusses the evolution of brass instruments, particularly the tuba, and its unique role in music and film scores. More info from this episode: The Simpsons (Wikipedia) Ophicleide (Wikipedia) Carnival of the Animals - Saint Saens (YouTube) Gilbert & Sullivan - Pirates of Penzance (YouTube) Stravinsky - The Firebird (YouTube) Prokofiev - Romeo and Juliet (YouTube) Berlioz - Symphonie Fantastique (YouTube) David Silverman plays the flaming tuba at Burning Man (YouTube)   David Silverman's work: IMDB David Silvmerman on Wikipedia

This week, Mike talks with Dave Jemilo!  Dave owns the fabulous Green Mill in Chicago - the oldest jazz club in the US.  Dave is not known as a musician but he got his start with his friends in elementary school in their band Dave Jemilo and the Gems!  They never played a gig and in Dave's words, they sucked!  But it was the beginning of what would lead Dave to own and run one of the foremost jazz clubs in the world. In this engaging conversation, Dave Jemilo shares his journey from college football player to successful jazz club owner. He discusses his early experiences juggling multiple jobs, his first solo gig, and the pivotal moment when he decided to pursue a career in music and business. Jemilo reflects on the creation of vibrant jazz scenes, particularly at the Green Mill, and the evolution of live music in Chicago. He also touches on his current musical tastes and the unique experience of owning a venue that showcases top jazz talent. More info from this episode: Sing Sing Sing - Benny Goodman Orchestra (YouTube) Chuck Berry - Johnny B. Goode (YouTube) Eric Dolphy - Jitterbug Waltz (YouTube) Hank Mobley - The Best Things In Life Are Free (YouTube)   Check out Dave's club: The Green Mill

This week, Mike talks with Matt Donnelly.  He is hilarious to chat with.  He is an accomplished improv actor, stage magician/mentalist, a writer on Penn & Teller's Fool Us, and! he has a really fun podcast with his friend Paul Mattingly.   In this conversation, Mike and Matt talk music, comedy, and Bruce Springsteen - The Boss!  They reminisce about listening to the radio and watching music on MTV.  They talk broadway musicals like only they can! Mentioned in this episode: Bruce Springsteen Official Website Bruce Springsteen on Wikipedia Bruse Springsteen on YouTube Mamma Mia! Musical (Wikipedia) Jersey Boys Musical (Wikipedia)   Check out Matt's magic and mentalism: The Mind Noodler Check out Matt's podcast: Matt and Mattingly's Ice Cream Social

This week's episode is a little different.  Back when we were first discussing the idea of a podcast, Russ agreed to talk with Mike as a test run.  He was so much fun that we wanted to release it! Mike and Russ have known each other since their days at Berklee College of music together.  Mike was a pianist and Russ was a drummer and percussionist.  Russ discusses the ups and downs of the life of a working musician.   Russ's website: Russ Gold Drums Russ's Book: Phrasing: Advanced Rudiments of Creative Drumming