Rabbit Hole Sessions with Abe Ovadia

EPISODE 140 - Brad Shepik

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 music to his acclaimed solo work, Brad has constantly pushed the boundaries of jazz guitar. His latest album, Human Activity Dream of the Possible—a ten-movement meditation on climate change—dropped October 11, 2024.

EPISODE 139 - Spike Wilner

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.
 

EPISODE 138 - Jordan Young

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. His latest album, Jazz Jukebox (Posi-Tone, 2016), showcases his signature blend of groove-heavy organ jazz, featuring Brian Charette, Matt Chertkoff, and Nick Hempton. With influences ranging from Jimmy Smith and Jack McDuff to the Beatles and ’70s TV soundtracks, Jordan’s music speaks to both jazz purists and modern listeners alike. (This interview was cut short due to a power outage.)

EPISODE 137 - Mike Boone

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 at Temple University. Mike's latest release Family and Friends - Confirmation was also just released this year.

EPISODE 136 - James Burton III

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 & Christian McBride, performed on some of the world’s biggest stages, and now helps mentor the next generation of jazz musicians at Juilliard. But beyond the music, James is full of surprises—he was recruited to play Division I football, has a soft spot for bad ’80s pop, and once threw his trombone slide off mid-performance at Dizzy’s Club.

EPISODE 135 - Jimmy Macbride

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 Dizzy’s Club and Smalls to the Newport and North Sea Jazz Festivals. Whether backing top-tier soloists or driving a big band, his artistry speaks for itself.
 

EPISODE 134 - Benny Benack III

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 shared the stage with Christian McBride, Emmet Cohen, and Bria Skonberg. Whether leading a band, hosting jam sessions at Smalls, or lighting up the stage at Birdland, he’s redefining jazz performance for a new generation.
 
 

EPISODE 133 - Thana Alexa

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 by the immigrant women in her family and the broader experiences of women worldwide. Beyond her solo work, she co-leads the genre-bending trio SONICA and has created projects like Founding Mothers of Jazz to honor pioneering women in the genre. A force in the jazz community, she also co-founded Live From Our Living Rooms, the first virtual jazz festival during the pandemic, and serves as artistic director for Croatia’s Ponta Lopud Jazz Festival. 
 

EPISODE 132 - Ned Goold

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! 🎶🔥 

EPISODE 131 - Peter Brendler

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, performing at legendary venues like The Blue Note, Birdland, and The Kennedy Center. As both a sideman and bandleader, Peter continues to make his mark with acclaimed albums such as The Angle Below, Outside the Line, and Message in Motion.