Rabbit Hole Sessions with Abe Ovadia

EPISODE 130 - Frank Catalano

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 genres. Today, we dive into his incredible journey, collaborations with rock and jazz icons, and what keeps his passion for the saxophone burning

EPISODE 129 - John Hart

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, and Chris Potter, and has headlined major festivals worldwide. Currently a lecturer at the University of Miami’s Frost School of Music, John continues to inspire both audiences and students with his artistry and deep musical insight.
 

EPISODE 128 - Kim Perlak

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 improvisation with classical technique, and she has collaborated with top musicians across genres. With a career spanning NPR features, cutting-edge curriculum development, and dynamic live performances, Kim continues to inspire guitarists worldwide.

EPISODE 127 - Randy Ingram

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 sensibility and expressive touch. With an incredible career spanning recordings, international tours, and film appearances, Randy continues to shape the jazz landscape.

EPISODE 126 - Ben Allison

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 sensibility and expressive touch. With an incredible career spanning recordings, international tours, and film appearances, Randy continues to shape the jazz landscape.

EPISODE 125 - Bobby Watson

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 Kansas City Jazz Walk of Fame inductee, Bobby’s contributions to jazz education and performance are immense. Let’s dive into his incredible journey!"

EPISODE 124 - Ken Fowser

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. With a residency at The Django and international recognition, including an Indonesian Grammy nomination, Ken continues to push jazz forward. Let’s dive in!"
 
 

EPISODE 123 - Wayne Tucker

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&B, and rock influences. Whether it’s playing in NYC’s small clubs, Madison Square Garden, or even appearing on Succession, Wayne does it all.

EPISODE 122 - Stacy Dillard

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. His sound is soulful, powerful, and unmistakably his own. Let’s dive into his journey!"

EPISODE 121 - Felix Moseholm

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 jazz scene. From Juilliard to NPR Tiny Desk, his journey is nothing short of inspiring. Let’s get into it!"