Rabbit Hole Sessions with Abe Ovadia

Ralph Alessi — an ECM recording artist, visionary trumpeter, composer, and educator whose work bridges classical precision and avant-garde exploration. With roots in a deeply musical family and a career that’s included collaborations with artists like Steve Coleman, Ravi Coltrane, and Fred Hersch, Ralph has carved out a singular voice in contemporary jazz. We talk about his critically acclaimed EC...

I’m joined by legendary drummer Bill Goodwin — a cornerstone of the jazz world for over six decades. From launching his career with Charles Lloyd at 17 to a 40-year Grammy-winning collaboration with Phil Woods, Bill's journey reads like a who's who of jazz history. He’s played with everyone from Bill Evans and Dexter Gordon to Tom Waits and The Manhattan Transfer, and continues to lead a dynamic t...

On this episode of Rabbit Hole Sessions, I’m joined by pianist and composer Greg Murphy — a Chicago native who’s been a vital force in the New York jazz scene since the 1980s. Best known for his 22-year collaboration with the legendary Rashied Ali, Greg's career spans decades and continents, including performances with jazz giants like Wynton Marsalis, Ornette Coleman, and Christian McBride. From...

On this episode of Rabbit Hole Sessions, I'm joined by Tim Brey — a phenomenal pianist, composer, and educator based in Philadelphia. Known for his dynamic work as a bandleader, sideman, and solo artist, Tim has performed with legends like Terell Stafford, Renée Fleming, Peter Bernstein, and Samara Joy. We talk about his third studio album News, his evolving voice as a composer, and his role shapi...

Today, we’re joined by Peter Lin—a powerhouse trombonist, producer, and educator shaping the New York and New Jersey jazz scenes. A Taiwanese-American artist, Peter has shared the stage with legends like Ron Carter, Slide Hampton, Winard Harper, and JD Allen, performing at top venues like Carnegie Hall, NJPAC, Blue Note, and Birdland.       Beyond performing, Peter is dedicated to education and co...

Today, we’re diving into the mind of Brad Shepik—a guitarist, composer, and educator whose music seamlessly blends jazz with world influences. With a career spanning over three decades, Brad has played with legends like Paul Motian, Dave Douglas, Carla Bley, and Charlie Haden, appearing on over 70 recordings as both a leader and sideman. From his early days exploring Balkan and Middle Eastern musi...

Today, we have a true staple of the New York jazz scene—Michael "Spike" Wilner. A pianist, bandleader, and longtime owner of Mezzrow and Smalls Jazz Club. From steady gigs at now-legendary clubs like The Village Gate to his ongoing performances at Smalls, Spike has lived and breathed the jazz life in its purest form.  

Today, we’re sitting down with Jordan Young, a powerhouse drummer whose dynamic approach bridges the tradition of jazz with fresh, modern influences. A Detroit native, Jordan cut his teeth playing everything from rock and metal to jazz before diving deep into the art of swing. His journey has taken him from the University of Michigan to Juilliard, where he studied under the great Wynton Marsalis....

Today’s guest is legendary bassist and educator Mike Boone, a cornerstone of the Philadelphia jazz scene. Born in New York City, Mike studied at Eastman and toured with Ben Vereen and the Buddy Rich Big Band before settling in Philly, where he played with icons like Trudy Pitts and Shirley Scott. He spent over 16 years as part of the iconic house trio at Ortlieb’s Jazz Haus and currently teaches a...

Today, we’re joined by James Burton III, a powerhouse trombonist and dedicated educator who has shaped the jazz scene both on and off the stage. A former pre-med student turned Juilliard faculty member, James’ journey took a sharp turn at 14 when he first heard John Coltrane’s Blue Train—a moment that set him on a lifelong path in jazz. He’s worked with icons like Jackie McLean, Ron Carter & C...

Today, we’re joined by one of the most exciting drummers in jazz today—Jimmy Macbride. Named one of Downbeat’s “25 for the Future,” Jimmy has become a highly sought-after sideman, known for his musicality, versatility, and dynamic touch behind the kit.   Since moving to New York in 2009, he’s worked with legends like Terence Blanchard, Kurt Rosenwinkel, and Kevin Hays, performing everywhere from D...

Today, we’re joined by Benny Benack III—a rare talent who’s making waves as both a trumpeter and vocalist. With a fiery command of postbop trumpet and a crooner’s charm, he’s been recognized as Rising Star Male Vocalist in the 2025 Downbeat Readers Poll while also ranking among the top jazz trumpeters. Benny has performed worldwide, gone viral with Postmodern Jukebox and the 8-Bit Big Band, and sh...

Today, we’re joined by the extraordinary Thana Alexa, a Grammy-nominated vocalist, composer, arranger, and producer whose music defies boundaries. Known for her innovative approach, Thana seamlessly blends jazz with contemporary soul and world influences, using her voice as both a lyrical and experimental instrument. Her 2x Grammy-nominated album ONA is a powerful statement on womanhood, inspired...

Dive into the world of an unsung saxophone hero—Ned Goold! From his unique approach to jazz to his deep musical philosophy, this episode sheds light on his incredible contributions to the scene. Don't miss it! 🎶🔥 

Today, we’re joined by bassist Peter Brendler, a dynamic musician whose versatility spans upright and electric bass. A Baltimore native, Peter honed his craft at Berklee College of Music—where he graduated Magna Cum Laude—and later earned his master’s degree from Manhattan School of Music. He has worked with jazz greats like John Abercrombie, Victor Lewis, Barry Altschul, and Jon Irabagon, perform...

Legendary saxophonist Frank Catalano has been lighting up stages across the world with his powerhouse performances and signature sound. With over 150 shows a year, from sold-out venues to major festivals, Frank’s influence in jazz and beyond is undeniable. Whether tearing through an electrifying solo at The Hollywood Bowl or crafting a top-charting album, his impact on music spans generations and...

Today, we’re joined by the incredible jazz guitarist John Hart, a true master of modern mainstream jazz. A longtime fixture on the New York scene, John has released eight albums as a leader on Blue Note and Concord and has appeared on over 100 recordings as a sideman, including a 16-year tenure with organist Jack McDuff. He’s performed with legends like Jimmy Smith, James Moody, Maria Schneider, a...

Today, we’re honored to welcome Kim Perlak, an innovative guitarist whose work bridges classical, jazz, and American traditions. As Chair of the Guitar Department at Berklee College of Music, Kim has shaped modern guitar education while leading impactful projects like the Veterans Guitar Project and co-authoring Classical Technique for the Modern Guitarist. Her performances blend jazz improvisatio...

Today, we’re diving into the world of pianist and composer Randy Ingram, a true modern jazz visionary. Hailed as 'a formidable composer' by The San Francisco Chronicle, Randy has worked with some of the greatest musicians in jazz, from John Patitucci and Jeff Tain Watts to Ari Hoenig and Billy Higgins. His latest album, Aries Dance, featuring Billy Hart and Drew Gress, showcases his deep harmonic...

Today, we’re diving into the world of pianist and composer Randy Ingram, a true modern jazz visionary. Hailed as 'a formidable composer' by The San Francisco Chronicle, Randy has worked with some of the greatest musicians in jazz, from John Patitucci and Jeff Tain Watts to Ari Hoenig and Billy Higgins. His latest album, Aries Dance, featuring Billy Hart and Drew Gress, showcases his deep harmonic...

Today, we’re honored to have the legendary saxophonist, composer, and educator Bobby Watson. With a career spanning decades, Bobby has released over 40 albums as a leader and appeared on more than 100 recordings. From his GRAMMY-nominated Tailor Made to his celebrated work with Smoke Sessions Records, his music is deeply rooted in jazz history. As a former Director of Jazz Studies at UMKC and a Ka...

Today, we’re joined by the powerhouse tenor saxophonist and composer, Ken Fowser. Since arriving in New York in 2005, Ken has carved out a unique voice in jazz, blending traditional harmony with fresh, contemporary ideas. He’s worked with legends like David Hazeltine, Ugonna Okegwo, and Willie Jones III, and his debut album, Standing Tall, topped the JazzWeek Radio Chart for seven weeks straight....

Today, we’re sitting down with the multi-talented Wayne Tucker—trumpeter, composer, arranger, violinist, vocalist, actor, and model. Wayne has toured and recorded with legends across genres, from jazz greats like Kurt Elling and Dee Dee Bridgewater to pop icons like Taylor Swift and David Crosby. His band, The Bad Mothas, brings a fresh, high-energy take on the American Songbook, blending jazz, R&...

Today, we have the incredible Stacy Dillard, a powerhouse saxophonist making waves in the jazz world. After studying at Central State University, a chance encounter with Wynton Marsalis led him to New York, where he quickly became an in-demand player. With four albums as a leader and over fifty as a sideman, Stacy has worked with jazz greats like Cyrus Chestnut, Eric Revis, and Wycliffe Gordon. Hi...

Today, we’re diving deep into the world of one of the most exciting young voices on the double bass—Felix Moseholm. Born in Copenhagen, Denmark, Felix started on the cello before making the switch to bass, following in the footsteps of his granduncle, Erik Moseholm. Since then, he’s worked with jazz greats like Samara Joy, Brad Mehldau, and Wynton Marsalis, and has become a force on the New York j...