
The Jazz Jam
Über

Cool Struttin' by Sonny Clark
Oct 3, 2025·—
—
This week, we dive into Sonny Clark’s hard bop classic Cool Struttin’. Backed by a powerhouse lineup featuring Jackie McLean on alto saxophone, Art Farmer on trumpet, Paul Chambers on bass, and Philly Joe Jones on drums, Clark delivers one of the most iconic Blue Note sessions of the late 1950s. Tune in as we break down the album, explore its lasting impact on the hard bop tradition, and reveal how we arrived at our overall rating of 9.5/10! Feel free to reach out to us with any listener questions or album recommendations at [email protected] Website: Click here! Instagram: @thejazzjampodcast Spotify Playlist: Top 3 Playlist

The Messthetics and James Brandon Lewis
Aug 28, 2025·—
—
This week, we mix it up with a punk-rock jazz exploration by The Messthetics and James Brandon Lewis. This Impulse release is a bit different than any other we've done on the show thus far. Tune in and see how we arrived at our overall rating of 7.3/10! Feel free to reach out to us with any listener questions or album recommendations at [email protected] Website: Click here! Instagram: @thejazzjampodcast Spotify Playlist: Top 3 Playlist

Yaron Herman Interview: His musical journey and creating "Radio Paradise"
Jun 26, 2025·—
—
This week Max sits down with jazz pianist Yaron Herman to talk about his musical journey and his latest album "Radio Paradise". Feel free to reach out to us with any listener questions or album recommendations at [email protected] Website: Click here! Instagram: @thejazzjampodcast Spotify Playlist: Top 3 Playlist

The Bridge by Sonny Rollins
Mar 13, 2025·—
—
This week, we dive into Sonny Rollins' triumphant return after a two-year sabbatical with The Bridge. This landmark album showcases a pianoless quartet, featuring the brilliant addition of Jim Hall on guitar. Tune in as we break down the album, discuss its impact, and reveal how we arrived at our overall rating of 9.0/10! Check out this episode's sponsor Meadowroad Records ( @meadowroad_records ) for their weekly vinyl auction: https://www.ebay.com/usr/meadowroad Feel free to reach out to us with any listener questions or album recommendations at [email protected] Website: Click here! Instagram: @thejazzjampodcast Spotify Playlist: Top 3 Playlist

Portrait by Samara Joy
Feb 6, 2025·—
—
On this week's episode we head back into the world of blossoming jazz star, Samara Joy. Her sophomore Verve release takes a step forward into new territory with daring arrangements of many different standards. Our overall combined rating for the album is 9.2/10, make sure to take a listen to our thoughts and how we came up with that score! Feel free to reach out to us with any listener questions or album recommendations at [email protected] Website: Click here! Instagram: @thejazzjampodcast Spotify Playlist: Top 3 Playlist

Friends And Strangers by Ronnie Laws
Dec 11, 2024·—
—
On this week's episode we direct our attention to the funk fusion class "Friends And Strangers" by Ronnie Laws. The 1977 release is a fundamental recording in the jazz fusion sphere. Our overall combined rating for the album is 8.7/10, make sure to take a listen to our thoughts and how we came up with that score! Feel free to reach out to us with any listener questions or album recommendations at [email protected] Website: Click here! Instagram: @thejazzjampodcast Spotify Playlist: Top 3 Playlist This episode may contain copyrighted material, the use of which may not have been authorized by the copyright owner. The material contained in this podcast is distributed without profit for research and educational purposes. This should constitute a 'fair use' of any copyrighted material (referenced and provided for in section 107 of the US Copyright Law).

Alto Summit by Phil Woods, Vincent Herring and Antonio Hart
Oct 31, 2024·—
—
On this week's episode we direct our attention to a deeper cut that was recommended by a listener; Alto Summit by a trio of fantastic alto saxophonists. This album spans a few different generations of the music with Phil Woods being 64 at the time of the session and Vincent Herring and Antonio Hart both being under 35. Our overall combined rating for the album is 8.5/10, make sure to take a listen to our thoughts and how we came up with that score! Feel free to reach out to us with any listener questions or album recommendations at [email protected] Website: Click here! Instagram: @thejazzjampodcast Spotify Playlist: Top 3 Playlist This episode may contain copyrighted material, the use of which may not have been authorized by the copyright owner. The material contained in this podcast is distributed without profit for research and educational purposes. This should constitute a 'fair use' of any copyrighted material (referenced and provided for in section 107 of the US Copyright Law).

Moanin' by Art Blakey & The Jazz Messengers
Oct 4, 2024·—
—
On this week's episode we explore the hard-bop cornerstone of Moanin' by Art Blakey & The Jazz Messengers. This album was foundational in the development of the hard-bop style as well as the development of the musicians on the album. Our overall combined rating for the album is 9.5/10, make sure to take a listen to our thoughts and how we came up with that score! Feel free to reach out to us with any listener questions or album recommendations at [email protected] Website: Click here! Instagram: @thejazzjampodcast Spotify Playlist: Top 3 Playlist This episode may contain copyrighted material, the use of which may not have been authorized by the copyright owner. The material contained in this podcast is distributed without profit for research and educational purposes. This should constitute a 'fair use' of any copyrighted material (referenced and provided for in section 107 of the US Copyright Law).

Fearless Movement by Kamasi Washington
Sep 11, 2024·—
—
On this week's episode we dive into Kamasi Washington's latest album "Fearless Movement". This record bring a host of different musicians to the table from funk legend such as George Clinton to bassist Thundercat and many in between. Our overall combined rating for the album is 7.4/10, make sure to take a listen to our thoughts and how we came up with that score! Feel free to reach out to us with any listener questions or album recommendations at [email protected] Website: Click here! Instagram: @thejazzjampodcast Spotify Playlist: Top 3 Playlist This episode may contain copyrighted material, the use of which may not have been authorized by the copyright owner. The material contained in this podcast is distributed without profit for research and educational purposes. This should constitute a 'fair use' of any copyrighted material (referenced and provided for in section 107 of the US Copyright Law).

Portrait In Jazz by Bill Evans Trio
Jul 12, 2024·—
—
On this week's episode we take a pit stop in the world of Bill Evans with his album "Portrait In Jazz". This is the first studio album of his trio with Scott LaFaro on bass and features some incredible piano trio playing that has been influential to many. Our overall combined rating for the album is 9.5/10, make sure to take a listen to our thoughts and how we came up with that score! Feel free to reach out to us with any listener questions or album recommendations at [email protected] Website: Click here! Instagram: @thejazzjampodcast Spotify Playlist: Top 3 Playlist This episode may contain copyrighted material, the use of which may not have been authorized by the copyright owner. The material contained in this podcast is distributed without profit for research and educational purposes. This should constitute a 'fair use' of any copyrighted material (referenced and provided for in section 107 of the US Copyright Law).

Who Are You When No One is Watching? by Braxton Cook
May 31, 2024·—
—
On this week's episode we get back to Braxton Cook with our review of his 2023 album "Who Are You When No One is Watching?" It was truly an honor to get to review and fully delve into this personal work from Braxton after getting to interview him on the podcast. Our overall combined rating for the album is 8.8/10, make sure to take a listen to our thoughts and how we came up with that score! Feel free to reach out to us with any listener questions or album recommendations at [email protected] Website: Click here! Instagram: @thejazzjampodcast Spotify Playlist: Top 3 Playlist This episode may contain copyrighted material, the use of which may not have been authorized by the copyright owner. The material contained in this podcast is distributed without profit for research and educational purposes. This should constitute a 'fair use' of any copyrighted material (referenced and provided for in section 107 of the US Copyright Law).

Blue Train by John Coltrane
Apr 26, 2024·—
—
On this week's episode we take a dive into a Blue Note masterpiece in John Coltrane's Blue Train. It was his only Blue Note recording as a leader and is a landmark album in the history of jazz music. Our overall combined rating for the album is 9.6/10, make sure to take a listen to our thoughts and how we came up with that score! Feel free to reach out to us with any listener questions or album recommendations at [email protected] Website: Click here! Instagram: @thejazzjampodcast Spotify Playlist: Top 3 Playlist This episode may contain copyrighted material, the use of which may not have been authorized by the copyright owner. The material contained in this podcast is distributed without profit for research and educational purposes. This should constitute a 'fair use' of any copyrighted material (referenced and provided for in section 107 of the US Copyright Law).

Braxton Cook Interview: His musical journey and creating "Who Are You When No One Is Watching?"
Mar 15, 2024·—
—
On this week's episode we get to talk to award winning saxophonist and singer Braxton Cook about his journey as a musician and about his 2023 album "Who Are You When No One Is Watching?". We get lots of insight into his different influences as well as his creative process while creating an album. Feel free to reach out to us with any listener questions or album recommendations at [email protected] Website: Click here! Instagram: @thejazzjampodcast Spotify Playlist: Top 3 Playlist This episode may contain copyrighted material, the use of which may not have been authorized by the copyright owner. The material contained in this podcast is distributed without profit for research and educational purposes. This should constitute a 'fair use' of any copyrighted material (referenced and provided for in section 107 of the US Copyright Law).

Momentum by Joshua Redman Elastic Band
Mar 5, 2024·—
—
On this week's episode we go through a listener suggestion Momentum by Joshua Redman Elastic Band. This album brings a lot of funk and some intriguing different covers. Our overall combined rating for the album is 7.1/10, make sure to take a listen to our thoughts and how we came up with that score! Feel free to reach out to us with any listener questions or album recommendations at [email protected] Website: Click here! Instagram: @thejazzjampodcast Spotify Playlist: Top 3 Playlist This episode may contain copyrighted material, the use of which may not have been authorized by the copyright owner. The material contained in this podcast is distributed without profit for research and educational purposes. This should constitute a 'fair use' of any copyrighted material (referenced and provided for in section 107 of the US Copyright Law).

2024 Jazz Grammy Preview Show! (Picks, Predictions, and More)
Feb 3, 2024·—
—
On this week's episode we take a quick dive into the 2024 Jazz Grammy Nominations. We go through the nominations for Best Jazz Performance, Best Vocal Jazz Album, and Best Instrumental Jazz albums and make our picks for each category to get us ready for the Grammy selections on February 4th. Take a listen to what we thought about each nomination and let us know your thoughts! Feel free to reach out to us with any listener questions or album recommendations at [email protected] Website: Click here! Instagram: @thejazzjampodcast Spotify Playlist: Top 3 Playlist This episode may contain copyrighted material, the use of which may not have been authorized by the copyright owner. The material contained in this podcast is distributed without profit for research and educational purposes. This should constitute a 'fair use' of any copyrighted material (referenced and provided for in section 107 of the US Copyright Law).

Groovin' With Jug by Richard Holmes and Gene Ammons
Jan 26, 2024·—
—
On this week's episode we are captivated by one our personal favorite albums Groovin' With Jug by Richard "Groove" Holmes and Gene "Jug" Ammons. This live recording brings so much energy and is heavy-swingin'. Our overall combined rating for the album is 9.3/10, make sure to take a listen to our thoughts and how we came up with that score! Check out Max and Dwain playing the tune Morris The Minor from the album live: Morris The Minor YouTube Link Feel free to reach out to us with any listener questions or album recommendations at [email protected] Website: Click here! Instagram: @thejazzjampodcast Spotify Playlist: Top 3 Playlist This episode may contain copyrighted material, the use of which may not have been authorized by the copyright owner. The material contained in this podcast is distributed without profit for research and educational purposes. This should constitute a 'fair use' of any copyrighted material (referenced and provided for in section 107 of the US Copyright Law).

In Real Time by Artemis
Jan 12, 2024·—
—
On this week's episode we explore the sophomore album by all female group Artemis entitled "In Real Time". This album features many great compositions and some great musicianship throughout. Our overall combined rating for the album is 7.4/10, make sure to take a listen to our thoughts and how we came up with that score! Feel free to reach out to us with any listener questions or album recommendations at [email protected] Website: Click here! Instagram: @thejazzjampodcast Spotify Playlist: Top 3 Playlist This episode may contain copyrighted material, the use of which may not have been authorized by the copyright owner. The material contained in this podcast is distributed without profit for research and educational purposes. This should constitute a 'fair use' of any copyrighted material (referenced and provided for in section 107 of the US Copyright Law).

Speak No Evil by Wayne Shorter
Jul 19, 2023·—
—
On this week's episode we venture into the world of Wayne Shorter with his iconic recording Speak No Evil. This album is regarded by many as his crowning jewel. He is joined by Freddie Hubbard, Herbie Hancock, Ron Carter, and Elvin Jones for a recording that you won't soon forget. Our overall combined rating for the album is 9.4/10, make sure to take a listen to our thoughts and how we came up with that score! Feel free to reach out to us with any listener questions or album recommendations at [email protected] Website: Click here! Instagram: @thejazzjampodcast Spotify Playlist: Top 3 Playlist This episode may contain copyrighted material, the use of which may not have been authorized by the copyright owner. The material contained in this podcast is distributed without profit for research and educational purposes. This should constitute a 'fair use' of any copyrighted material (referenced and provided for in section 107 of the US Copyright Law).

Phoenix by Lakecia Benjamin
May 10, 2023·—
—
On this week's episode we take a look at Lakecia Benjamin's new album entitled Phoenix. Lakecia levels up on this album which also has many great guest features. Our overall combined rating for the album is 8.5/10, make sure to take a listen to our thoughts and how we came up with that score! Feel free to reach out to us with any listener questions or album recommendations at [email protected] Website: Click here! Instagram: @thejazzjampodcast Spotify Playlist: Top 3 Playlist This episode may contain copyrighted material, the use of which may not have been authorized by the copyright owner. The material contained in this podcast is distributed without profit for research and educational purposes. This should constitute a 'fair use' of any copyrighted material (referenced and provided for in section 107 of the US Copyright Law).

Afternoon in Paris by John Lewis & Sacha Distel
Feb 22, 2023·—
—
On this week's episode we're getting back into some classic jazz albums with this listener recommendation of Afternoon in Paris by John Lewis and Sacha Distel. This is an under the radar recording that features some talented French musicians. Our overall combined rating for the album is 8.0/10, make sure to take a listen to our thoughts and how we came up with that score! Feel free to reach out to us with any listener questions or album recommendations at [email protected] Website: Click here! Instagram: @thejazzjampodcast Spotify Playlist: Top 3 Playlist This episode may contain copyrighted material, the use of which may not have been authorized by the copyright owner. The material contained in this podcast is distributed without profit for research and educational purposes. This should constitute a 'fair use' of any copyrighted material (referenced and provided for in section 107 of the US Copyright Law).

Linger Awhile by Samara Joy
Feb 8, 2023·—
—
On this week's episode we're reviewing the award winning album Linger Awhile by Samara Joy. This album just won the Grammy award for Best Vocal Jazz Album and Samara Joy was able to surprise many by winning Best New Artist. Our overall combined rating for the album is 9.2/10, make sure to take a listen to our thoughts and how we came up with that score! Feel free to reach out to us with any listener questions or album recommendations at [email protected] Website: Click here! Instagram: @thejazzjampodcast Spotify Playlist: Top 3 Playlist This episode may contain copyrighted material, the use of which may not have been authorized by the copyright owner. The material contained in this podcast is distributed without profit for research and educational purposes. This should constitute a 'fair use' of any copyrighted material (referenced and provided for in section 107 of the US Copyright Law).

2023 Jazz Grammy Preview Show! (Picks, Predictions, and more)
Feb 1, 2023·—
—
On this week's episode we're culminating our 2023 Grammy lead up with our Jazz Grammy preview episode. We go through the nominations for Best Improvised Solo, Best Vocal Jazz Album, and Best Instrumental Jazz albums and make our picks for each category to get us ready for the Grammy selections on February 5th. Take a listen to what we thought about each nomination and let us know your thoughts! Feel free to reach out to us with any listener questions or album recommendations at [email protected] Website: Click here! Instagram: @thejazzjampodcast Spotify Playlist: Top 3 Playlist This episode may contain copyrighted material, the use of which may not have been authorized by the copyright owner. The material contained in this podcast is distributed without profit for research and educational purposes. This should constitute a 'fair use' of any copyrighted material (referenced and provided for in section 107 of the US Copyright Law).

Parallel Motion by Yellowjackets
Jan 25, 2023·—
—
On this week's episode we're continuing our lead up to the Grammy's with the Yellowjackets latest release Parallel Motion. This fusion group has been on the scene for over 30 years and in many different iterations. Our overall combined rating for the album is 7.0/10, make sure to take a listen to our thoughts and how we came up with that score! Feel free to reach out to us with any listener questions or album recommendations at [email protected] Website: Click here! Instagram: @thejazzjampodcast Spotify Playlist: Top 3 Playlist This episode may contain copyrighted material, the use of which may not have been authorized by the copyright owner. The material contained in this podcast is distributed without profit for research and educational purposes. This should constitute a 'fair use' of any copyrighted material (referenced and provided for in section 107 of the US Copyright Law).

LongGone by Joshua Redman
Jan 18, 2023·—
—
On this week's episode we're starting our lead up to the Grammy's with this nominated album entitled LongGone by Joshua Redman. He is join by an A-List rhythm section for this 2022 studio album. Our overall combined rating for the album is 7.5/10, make sure to take a listen to our thoughts and how we came up with that score! Feel free to reach out to us with any listener questions or album recommendations at [email protected] Click here to visit our website! This episode may contain copyrighted material, the use of which may not have been authorized by the copyright owner. The material contained in this podcast is distributed without profit for research and educational purposes. This should constitute a 'fair use' of any copyrighted material (referenced and provided for in section 107 of the US Copyright Law).

The Sidewinder by Lee Morgan
Jan 11, 2023·—
—
On this week's episode we're going back to the peak of the Hard Bop era with The Sidewinder from Lee Morgan. An album that was widely popular amongst jazz enthusiasts as well as having more widespread popularity in pop music and culture. Our overall combined rating for the album is 9.4/10, make sure to take a listen to our thoughts and how we came up with that score! Feel free to reach out to us with any listener questions or album recommendations at [email protected] Click here to visit our website! This episode may contain copyrighted material, the use of which may not have been authorized by the copyright owner. The material contained in this podcast is distributed without profit for research and educational purposes. This should constitute a 'fair use' of any copyrighted material (referenced and provided for in section 107 of the US Copyright Law).


