Ornette Coleman, Bill Evans, Ulysses Owens, Jr., Paul Edis & Noa Levy

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We launch into the 952nd episode of Neon Jazz with a spark of elegance and invention—UK pianist Paul Edis and San Francisco vocalist Noa Levy reimagining "Peri's Scope," the classic by Bill Evans, from their 2026 release Portrait in Evans. It's a bold, beautiful opening that sets the tone for a journey rich in texture and soul. From there, we shine a light on the artistry and insight of Glenn Makos, Joe Steels, and author John Gennari with his standout book Jazz Barn—a deep dive into the spaces and stories that shape the music. The momentum builds with a fresh wave of sounds from Steve Kovalchek, Hendrik Meurkens, Paul Keller, Dominic Walker, and April Varner—each bringing their own voice to the ever-evolving language of jazz. And to close it all out, we pour a rich, energizing shot of espresso from Ulysses Owens Jr. and his album Around the World With U—a fitting finale that leaves you buzzing. Step in, turn it up, and dig this vibrant hour of jazz, my friends.

Playlist

• Paul Edis and Noa Levy "Peri's Scope" Portrait in Evans (Dot Time Records) 0:00
• Host talks 5:10
• Bill Evans "Israel" At the BBC (BBC) 7:21
• Glenn Makos & Bru "The Last Straw" Arrosic (Stop Time Records) 12:21
• Host talks 16:08
• Steve Kovalcheck "Fast Eddie" Buckshot Blues (OA2 Records) 17:08
• Ornette Coleman "Focus on Sanity" The Shape of Jazz to Come (Rhino Atlantic) 21:03
• Host talks 27:45
• Hendrik Meurkens "Surf Board" Samba Tonto (Cellar Live) 29:07
• Paul Keller Orchestra "Bopportunity" Thank You Notes (Cold Plunge Records) 35:53
• Host talks 39:26
• Dominic Walker Trio}} "Witchcraft" Hurricane Summer (GreenKenny Records) 40:09
• Joe Steels "These are the Days" A Blue Patch (Luna Records) 45:00
• Host talks 50:18
• April Varner "A-Tisket, A-Taskey" Ella (Cellar Live) 51:10
• Host talks 54:11
• Ulysses Owens, Jr. "Espresso" Around the World with U (Cellar Live) 54:35

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