Big Band Jazz emerged in the early 20th century and is known for its powerful sound created by large ensembles of brass, woodwind, and rhythm instruments. It became especially popular during the Swing Era of the 1930s and 1940s, when bands led by musicians like Duke Ellington and Count Basie filled dance halls across the United States. The music features strong rhythms, arranged sections, and opportunities for improvised solos that showcase individual performers. Big band jazz played a major role in shaping American music and continues to influence jazz and popular styles today.

Count Basie Big Band, April In Paris.

Bob Mintzer Big Band, Moonlight Serenade.

Christian Mcbride Big band, Brother Mister.

Bob Mintzer Big Band, Christopher Columbus.

Roy Hargrove Big Band, Mombo Roy.

Duke Ellington Big Band, Satin Doll.

Duke Ellington Big Band, Hello Little Girl.

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This week on the 8:30 Podcast, Herman Hollywood Dawkins and Ray The Jazzman dive into the smooth, melodic world of legendary guitarist Earl Klugh. They explore how Klugh’s signature blend of jazz, pop, and classical influences reshaped contemporary guitar music and continues to inspire players today. Tune in as the duo shares stories, insights, and timeless tracks that showcase Klugh’s unmatched artistry.

Songs Include :

1. Twinkle

2. Dr. Macumba

3. The Afterglow

4. Heart String

5. The Traveler

6. It’s So Easy Loving You - Hubert Laws - Earl Klugh

7. Master Of Suspense

8. Wind And The Sea

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Charles Mingus was a visionary bassist and composer whose music fused fiery emotion with intricate, unexpected structures. His work pushed jazz forward by blending hard-driving swing, blues, classical influences, and fearless improvisation into something unmistakably his own. Mingus’s genius lies in how boldly he challenged tradition while creating music that still feels alive, urgent, and essential today.

Songs Include :

1. II B.S.
2. Theme For Lester Young (Goodbye Pork Pie Hat)
3. Reincarnation Of A Lovebird
4. Fables Of Faubus
5. The Dry Cleaner From Des Moines - Joni Mitchell
6. Carolyn Kiki Mingus

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This week on the 8:30 A Jazz Podcast, we’re shining the spotlight on legendary jazz guitarist Wes Montgomery. Known for his warm tone and signature thumb-picking style, Montgomery redefined jazz guitar with hits like “Four on Six” and “West Coast Blues.” His soulful phrasing and innovative approach continue to inspire generations of musicians, proving that his sound is as timeless as ever.

Songs Include :

1. Bumpin’ On Sunset
2. Airegin
3. Windy
4. Four On Six
5. Full House
6. James And Wes - Jimmy Smith
7. Goin On To Detroit

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Jazz-Rock Fusion emerged in the late 1960s and early '70s, blending the improvisational elements of jazz with the energy and rhythms of rock music. Pioneered by artists like Miles Davis with Bitches Brew and bands such as Weather Report and Mahavishnu Orchestra, it introduced complex time signatures, electric instruments, and experimental soundscapes. This genre created a dynamic and evolving musical landscape that pushed the boundaries of both jazz and rock, influencing generations of musicians across diverse genres.

Songs Include:

1. Birds Of Fire - Mahavishnu Orchestra

2. Captain Fingers - Lee Ritenour

3. Hot Fun - Stanley Clarke

4. Quadrant 4 - Billy Cobham

5. The Magician - Return To Forever

6. In A Trance - Hiromi, Anthony Jackson, Simon Phillips

7. Herandu - Weather Report

8. Ice Cakes - Dixie Dregs

9. Five G - Bruford

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On this episode of the 8:30 Jazz Podcast, we dive into the groundbreaking career of Bob James, a pioneering jazz pianist, composer, and arranger whose influence spans over five decades. Known for his fusion of jazz with elements of R&B and pop, James helped shape the sound of contemporary jazz, with hits like "Nautilus" becoming iconic in the genre. His ability to blend complex musicality with accessibility has earned him a loyal following, making him a key figure in both jazz history and modern music. James's music, especially his early albums, has been sampled often by many hip-hop artists, with his songs "Nautilus" and "Take Me to the Mardi Gras" leading the field.

• Songs Include:

1. Angela (Theme From Taxi)

2. Nautilus

3. Night Crawler

4. Xraxse

5. Ashanti

6. I’ll Never See You Smile Again

7. Bare Bones

8. James

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Bill Evans was an influential American jazz pianist known for his innovative harmonic language and lyrical improvisation. A master of modal jazz, he played a key role in shaping the sound of the Miles Davis sextet on Kind of Blue and went on to lead his own groundbreaking trios. His intimate, introspective style continues to inspire pianists and jazz enthusiasts, cementing his legacy as one of the genre's most important figures.

Songs Include :

1. Waltz For Debby

2. My Romance

3. The Dolphin

4. Gloria’s Step

5. You Must Believe In Spring

6. Some Other Time

7. Nardis

8. My Funny Valentine

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In this continuing episode the 8:30 crew is celebrating more from the Blue Note Records catalog of sought-after classics matered by Kevin Gray and produced by Joe Harley from the original analog mater tapes. Each record features classic artwork and stunning Francis Wolff photography on deluxe gatefold jackets. Along with the legendary engineering from Rudy Van Gelder's studios.

Songs Include:

McCoy Tyner "I Didn't Know What Time It Was"

Herbie Hancock "Firewater"

Jimmy Smith & Stanley Turrentine "Prayer Meetin"

Chick Corea "Steps-What Was"

Andrew Hill "Tired Trade"

Lee Morgan "You Go To My Head"

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