Here is every interview, from the first to the last, in reverse chronological order.
Dave Lefkowitz Interview IV, Part 1 (December 22, 2006) Dave Lefkowitz Interview IV, Part 2 (December 22, 2006) Dave Lefkowitz was my last guest in the interview segment. In this two-part final interview, we discuss the usual stuff--theater--as well as the 200th episode of "Dave's Gone By," his upcoming New Year's Eve special on WGBB-AM, his other show at the time on WUSB.FM, and best wishes for my future. This interview was recorded December 8, 2006. Dave now has a public access show called "Shalom, Dammit!" starring his Rabbi Sol Solomon character.
Ken Navarro Interview, Part 1 (December 15, 2006) Ken Navarro Interview, Part 2 (December 15, 2006) Guitarist Ken Navarro was the last musician I interviewed for "The Mike Chimeri Show." In this two-part interview, Ken and I discuss how he got into music, his years as a Los Angeles session guitarist, the experience of recording his first album ("The River Flows") in the Fall of 1989 and its release in 1990, "The Meeting Place" (his current album at the time), and his record label Positive Music. "The Grace of Summer Light" was released through his website (see below) on May 1, 2008, and will be in stores on June 17. Visit Ken's website: www.kennavarro.com. This interview was recorded December 1, 2006.
Debi Derryberry Interview II (December 8, 2006) Voiceover actress and children's singer Debi Derryberry returned to talk about her debut children's album, "What A Way To Play!", her role in an upcoming animated movie called "The Legend of Secret Pass," and her holiday plans. This interview was recorded November 17, 2006, following David Benoit.
David Benoit Interview IV (December 1, 2006) In David Benoit's fourth appearance, we talk about his "Full Circle" album and his appearance on the Rippingtons' "20th Anniversary" album. We also discuss his recent and upcoming appearances and tours. This interview was recorded November 17, 2006.
Thom Huge Interview III (November 17, 2006) Thom Huge (HUE-ghee) visited for the third time. This time, Thom talked about his new job as Director of the Buffalo Bill Art Show and Sale in Cody, Wyoming; his side job in an acoustic/folk/bluegrass/blues music trio featuring his wife; and his trip to California earlier in the year to catch up with his old friend from "Garfield," Desiree Goyette. He even took time share a joke and discuss his plans for Thanksgiving. This interview was recorded November 3, 2006, from home. It was the last interview recorded at home.
Brad Sherwood Interview II (November 10, 2006) Actor Brad Sherwood, notably of "Whose Line is it Anyway?", returned to discuss what he had been up to since our first interview in May 2005. Four months after this interview, Brad would appear with Colin Mochrie at the 2007 Radio and Television Correspondents Dinner in Washington, D.C. This interview was recorded October 3, 2006, from home. I apologize for the hum on Brad's end. My end of the interview was re-recorded October 22, 2006.
Russ Freeman Interview II (October 27, 2006) Guitarist Russ Freeman of the Rippingtons returned to talk about the Ripps' "20th Anniversary" CD and tour, and gave an update on the latest at Peak Records. This interview was recorded September 29, 2006, with the intent to air on October 25.
Bob James Interview (October 20, 2006) In this landmark interview, pianist Bob James and I discuss the highlights of his early days in contemporary jazz and his present day projects. Bob's latest albums are "Urban Flamingo" and "Angels Of Shanghai." "Angels Of Shanghai" was only available as an import at the time, but was released in North America on Koch Records on April 10, 2007. He is also the lead man for the band Fourplay and their latest album is "X" (Ten). For more on Bob James, visit his official website. This interview was recorded September 27, 2006--following Russell Ferrante--with the intent to air on October 18.
Russell Ferrante Interview (October 13, 2006 - web only) Pianist Russell Ferrante of the band Yellowjackets stopped by to talk about 25 years of Yellowjackets and their CD/DVD "Twenty Five." For more on Russell and Yellowjackets, visit the official Yellowjackets website. This interview was recorded September 27, 2006, with the intent to air on October 11, as I had no clue my show would move to a new day. I forgot to bring a CD I had burned at home that had Russell's interview on it. So, I was not able to air the interview. This was a rare lapse in judgment. To Heads Up and to Russell for my "bonehead move"--as I referred to it on the air--I sincerely apologize.
Matt Marshak Interview (October 4, 2006) Guitarist Matt Marshak--a Long Island native--was nice enough to drop by on this day. His latest album at the time was "Groovosphere." "On The Rocks" was released in early 2008. Visit his website: www.mattmarshak.com. This interview was recorded September 25, 2006, and was the last interview to air on a Wednesday.
Gerald Albright Interview II (September 20, 2006) Saxophonist (and occasional bass player) Gerald Albright returned to talk about his summer of touring and to further promote "New Beginnings." This interview was recorded August 23, 2006, and was the only good thing to come out of what turned into show #165A.
Peter White Interview II (September 6, 2006) Guitarist Peter White returned to talk about what he's been up to, what's forthcoming, and to promote "Playin' Favorites." Since this interview, "Peter White Christmas" with Mindi Abair and Rick Braun was released. This interview was recorded August 9, 2006.
Dan Siegel Interview II (August 30, 2006) Pianist/keyboardist Dan Siegel returned to let us know how things are and to promote his new album, "Departure." This interview was recorded August 10, 2006.
Lisa Hilton Interview II (August 23, 2006) Pianist Lisa Hilton returned for a second interview to let us know how things were going and to promote her latest CD at the time, "Midnight in Manhattan." This interview was recorded August 8, 2006, the street date for "Midnight in Manhattan." "The New York Sessions" was released in August 2007.
Jay Rowe Interview, Part 1 (August 16, 2006) Jay Rowe Interview, Part 2 (August 16, 2006) Keyboardist Jay Rowe has worked with artists like Marion Meadows, Ken Navarro, Nelson Rangell, and Chieli Minucci/Special EFX. His latest solo album is "Red, Hot & Smooth"; his latest album with Special EFX is "Sweet Surrender"; and his latest albums with Ken Navarro are "The Meeting Place" and "The Grace of Summer Light." For more on Jay, visit his website. Unfortunately, since this interview aired, the Musicians For A Cause cruise was canceled. This interview was recorded August 7, 2006, and was the first one recorded since March 28.
Jon Kaiman Interview (May 27, 2006, during the WCWP 88.1 FM live broadcast from Bar Beach Park in Port Washington, NY) This was a live impromptu interview with Jon Kaiman, the North Hempstead Town Supervisor. It was a pleasure to conduct and a pleasure to meet him. If you hear any audio problems, there is nothing wrong with the file. The feed from Bar Beach was sent back to WCWP via ISDN and streamed live through that feed.
Gregg Karukas Interview (April 26, 2006) Keyboardist Gregg Karukas' latest album is "Looking Up." For more, visit his website. This interview was recorded March 28, 2006, and was the last one to be recorded until August 7, and to air until August 16.
David Benoit Interview III (April 19, 2006) This was the 50th interview overall and the third appearance for David Benoit. At the time, he had just finished "Full Circle," which was released in June 2006. This interview was recorded March 21, 2006.
Mindi Abair Interview III (April 12, 2006) Mindi Abair returned for a third time to promote "Life Less Ordinary" and the interview was a blast. Listen for yourself. This interview was recorded March 14, 2006, following Nick Colionne.
Nick Colionne Interview (April 5, 2006) Guitarist Nick Colionne stopped by on this day for a short, but sweet interview. For more on Nick, visit his website. This interview was recorded March 14, 2006, following Dave Lefkowitz.
Dave Lefkowitz Interview III (March 29, 2006) Dave Lefkowitz makes his third appearance for this show. As usual, we talk about all things theater. This interview was recorded March 14, 2006. It was intended to run in its entirety, but became two parts to avoid alienating viewers. The tease for part two, as heard when it aired, was taken from the tease for part three of the Billy West Interview. The words "...with Billy West" were removed.
Steve Briody Interview (March 22, 2006) Steve Briody (BRY-dee) is a contemporary jazz guitarist. His latest, and second, album is "Keep On Talkin'." The album was produced by--and features--Bill Heller of the Rippingtons. For more on Steve, check out his website. This interview was recorded March 2, 2006, during a minor winter storm.
Richard Elliot Interview (March 15, 2006) In this interview, saxophonist Richard Elliot discusses his career from its beginnings to his latest album at the time, "Metro Blue," the first album with ARTizen Music Group. On August 28, 2007, Richard's collaborative album with Rick Braun, "RnR," was released. For more on Richard, visit his website. This interview was recorded February 21, 2006.
Tom Scott Interview (March 8, 2006) Saxophonist Tom Scott has been a giant in the world of jazz for many years. His latest album at the time was "Bebop United." "Cannon Re-Loaded: All-Star Celebration of Cannonball Adderley" was released on February 12, 2008. For more on Tom, visit his website. This interview was recorded February 16, 2006.
Jay Beckenstein Interview II (March 1, 2006) Jay Beckenstein, saxophonist with Spyro Gyra, returned for a second interview. In this interview, we promote "Wrapped in A Dream," talk about Tom Schuman's "Deep Chill," Jay's "Eye Contact," and Jay's friendship with Chieli Minucci. This interview was recorded February 7, 2006. Since this interview, he and Spyro Gyra recorded a new album called "Good To Go-Go," which was released on June 12, 2007.
Thom Huge Interview II (February 22, 2006) Thom Huge (HUE-ghee) was nice enough to make a return visit to our show. Unfortunately, the interview was hardly heard when it was supposed to air. Over the air, the audio quality seemed garbled. However, during playback while editing the show's aircheck for the archives page, the audio was fine. It was also fine over the web. Live and learn, I guess. Luckily, you get to hear the interview in its entirety here. This interview was recorded January 16, 2006, following Bill Heller.
John Patitucci Interview (February 8, 2006) Bassist John Patitucci has performed with many artists of different instruments. His album "Line by Line" was released in September 2006. For more on John, and that album, visit his website. This interview was recorded January 6, 2006.
Bill Heller Interview (February 1, 2006) Bill Heller is the keyboardist for the Rippingtons and has produced and appeared on guitarist Steve Briody's albums. The day this interview aired, Bill appeared with John Favicchia's band, the Dharma All Stars, at D.J. Rider's (then the Funky Munky Lounge) in Oceanside, New York. This interview was recorded January 16, 2006.
Brian Simpson Interview (January 25, 2006) Brian Simpson is the keyboardist and Music Director for Dave Koz. His latest solo album at the time was "It's All Good." The title track features Koz. "Above The Clouds" was released on August 28, 2007. Check out his website: www.bsimpsonmusic.com. Midway through the interview, I accidentally call Brian "Dave Koz." Oops! This interview was recorded January 4, 2006.
Brian Hughes Interview (January 18, 2006) Guitarist Brian Hughes has performed as a solo artist for over 15 years and with Loreena McKennitt for almost 20 years. His live album, "Live," was released in August 2007. Here is Brian's website. This interview was recorded January 3, 2006.
Jeff Kashiwa Interview (January 4, 2006) Contemporary jazz saxophonist Jeff Kashiwa was with the Rippingtons from "Welcome to the St. James Club" in 1990 through "Black Diamond" in 1997. He also appeared on the Rippingtons' "20th Anniversary" album and tour. His latest solo album at the time was "Peace of Mind." "Play" was released on July 31, 2007. For more on Jeff, visit his website. This interview was recorded December 13, 2005.
Gerald Albright Interview (December 28, 2005) Gerald Albright is primarily a contemporary jazz saxophonist, but has also performed with a number of pop artists like Phil Collins. In the interview, we talk about his 2004 album "Kickin' It Up," even though we were a few months away from the release of "New Beginnings." For more on Gerald, visit his website. This interview was recorded December 8, 2005.
Mindi Abair Interview II (December 21, 2005) Mindi was nice enough to come back on the show. She was in the middle of touring for Peter White Christmas with herself, Peter, and Rick Braun. This interview was recorded November 29, 2005, following Mike Bono.
Mike Bono Interview (December 14, 2005) Mike Bono was an On-Camera Meteorologist at The Weather Channel for many years. He is currently the Chief Meteorologist at Capital News 9 in Albany, New York. The two people I mention in the interview are Chazz Abel and Matt Marron and their website is TWC Classics. Matt now solely maintains that site. This interview, as I say at one point, was recorded November 29, 2005.
Kathleen Rice Interview (December 7, 2005) On November 8, 2005, Kathleen Rice defeated 8-term incumbent Denis Dillon to become the new Nassau County (New York) District Attorney. Her current term began January 1, 2006. This interview was recorded November 15, 2005, following Tom Schuman.
Tom Schuman Interview (November 30, 2005) Tom Schuman is the pianist and keyboardist for Spyro Gyra. He is also a solo artist. His solo album, "Deep Chill," was released in January 2006, and the Spyro Gyra album, "Wrapped in a Dream," was released a month later. "Good To Go-Go" was released on June 12, 2007. This interview was recorded November 15, 2005.
Dave Lefkowitz Interview II (November 23, 2005) In Dave's return interview, we talk about the world of theater and his two radio shows. I also accidentally call him "Dave's Gone By." Oops! This interview was recorded November 9, 2005.
Frank Bielec Interview (November 16, 2005) Frank Bielec is a designer on the TLC show, "Trading Spaces" and the co-creator of Mosey 'n Me. This interview was recorded October 26, 2005. Special thanks to Discovery Networks and George Neighbors for granting me permission to do this interview.
Lisa Hilton Interview (November 9, 2005) Lisa Hilton is a pianist and composer. Her latest album at the time was "My Favorite Things: Everyone's Jazz Favorites." Since then, she released "Midnight in Manhattan" in August 2006 and "The New York Sessions" in August 2007. For more on Lisa, visit her website. This interview was recorded October 5, 2005.
John Favicchia Interview (November 2, 2005) Drummer John Favicchia heads up the band the Dharma All Stars. For more, visit his website. This interview was recorded September 21, 2005, following Jason Cascone and Darlene Johnson.
Jason Cascone/Darlene Johnson Interview (October 26, 2005) At the time, Jason Cascone and Darlene Johnson were the hosts of "So, You Wanna Job..." on WebRadio WCWP. In addition, they were counselors at the Professional Experience & Career Planning (PEP) Office at C.W. Post. Jason was the Senior Associate Director of Career Development for the PEP Office, while Darlene was a Senior Career Counselor. Jason still holds that position. Darlene now works at the College at Old Westbury. The status of "So, You Wanna Job..." is currently up in the air. Here's the "So, You Wanna Job..." website. This interview was recorded September 21, 2005, in what is now Studio One at WCWP.
Eric Marienthal Interview (October 19, 2005) Contemporary jazz saxophonist Eric Marienthal has recorded many solo albums over the years. His latest at the time was "Got You Covered!" He was also in the Chick Corea Elektric Band and, more recently, with the Rippingtons. "Just Around The Corner" was released on October 16, 2007. For more, visit Eric's website. This interview was recorded September 16, 2005.
Debi Derryberry Interview (October 12, 2005) One of Debi Derryberry's many voices is that of Jimmy Neutron on "The Adventures of Jimmy Neutron: Boy Genius." At the time, she was with a country band called Honey Pig. They have since disbanded. Also since this interview, Debi released a children's album called "What A Way To Play!" For more on Debi, visit her website. This interview was recorded September 14, 2005. The Columbus Day reference initially threw Debi off.
Carolyn Lawrence Interview (October 5, 2005) Carolyn Lawrence is the voice of Sandy Cheeks on "SpongeBob SquarePants," and Cindy Vortex on "The Adventures of Jimmy Neutron: Boy Genius." For more of her voices and her work, visit her website. This interview was recorded September 9, 2005. Since this interview, "Jimmy Neutron" was canceled.
Tara Strong Interview (September 28, 2005) Voiceover actress Tara Strong has many voices to her credit. They include Timmy Turner on "The Fairly OddParents." For more on Tara, visit her website. This interview was recorded September 8, 2005. Since this interview, "The Fairly OddParents" was canceled.
Craig Chaquico Interview (September 21, 2005) Craig Chaquico is a contemporary jazz guitarist, as well as the former lead guitarist for Jefferson Starship and Starship. His latest album at the time were "Midnight Noon" and "Holiday." For more, visit his website. This interview was recorded August 31, 2005, following Colin Mochrie. On that day, we had no idea that 2005 would be as record-setting a Hurricane season as it was.
Colin Mochrie Interview (September 14, 2005) Colin Mochrie was a performer on the British and American versions of "Whose Line is it Anyway?" He was also a performer on "Drew Carey's Green Screen Show" on Comedy Central. At the time, he could be seen with his wife, Deb McGrath, in a Canadian sitcom called "Getting Along Famously." On March 28, 2007, Colin appeared with Brad Sherwood at the annual Radio and Television Correspondents Dinner in Washington, D.C. For more on Colin, visit his website. This interview was recorded August 31, 2005.
Lee Ritenour Interview (September 7, 2005) Lee Ritenour's latest album at the time--both on CD and DVD--was called "Overtime." There are songs on the CD that aren't on the DVD, and vice versa. Since then, he recorded a new album, "Smoke 'n' Mirrors," which was released in August 2006. For more on Lee, visit his website. This interview was recorded August 11, 2005.
Mindi Abair Interview (August 31, 2005) Mindi Abair is a contemporary jazz saxophonist and vocalist. Her latest album at the time was "Come As You Are." For more on Mindi, visit her website. This interview was recorded July 28, 2005, following Chuck Loeb.
Chuck Loeb Interview (August 24, 2005) Chuck Loeb is a contemporary jazz guitarist. He was part of the band Steps Ahead and is currently with Metro. Primarily, however, he is a solo artist. His latest album at the time was "When I'm With You." He has since switched record labels, from Shanachie to Heads Up, and recorded "Presence," which was released on January 23, 2007. For more on Chuck, visit his website. This interview was recorded July 28, 2005.
David Benoit Interview II (August 10, 2005) David Benoit returned for another interview. Among the topics, conducting, how he got into music, his soon to be released (at the time) album "Orchestral Stories" (I mispronounced "Orchestral"), and a particular memory from touring. This interview was recorded July 13, 2005.
Russ Freeman Interview (August 3, 2005) Russ Freeman is the guitarist and lead man for the Rippingtons. At the time, Russ was promoting "Wild Card," but "20th Anniversary" was released July 25, 2006. For more information, visit the Rippingtons official website. This interview was recorded July 5, 2005.
Chieli Minucci Interview (July 27, 2005) Contemporary jazz guitarist Chieli Minucci has performed with many musicians and scored music for numerous TV shows. He and the late George Jinda created the band Special EFX. At the time, Chieli was promoting his solo album, "Got It Goin' On!" In February 2007, Chieli released "Sweet Surrender," a joint album with Special EFX. For more information, check out Chieli's official website. This interview was recorded June 30, 2005.
Dan Siegel Interview (July 20, 2005) Contemporary jazz pianist Dan Siegel's solo career spans over 25 years. He also had a band called Birds of a Feather, which released three albums between 1987 and 1997. At the time, he was promoting "Inside Out." His newest album, "Departure," was released July 18, 2006. For more on Dan, visit his official website. This interview was recorded June 27, 2005.
Jay Beckenstein Interview (July 13, 2005) Jay Beckenstein is the lead man and saxophonist for Spyro Gyra. At the time Spyro Gyra's latest album was "The Deep End," but they were working on their next album "Wrapped in a Dream," which was released on February 28, 2006. For more information on Jay and Spyro Gyra, go to their official website. This interview was recorded June 15, 2005, following Peter White.
Peter White Interview (July 6, 2005) Contemporary jazz guitarist Peter White had previously backed up many artists, including Al Stewart, before going solo in 1990. Peter's latest album at the time was "Confidential." On June 27, 2006, he released "Playin' Favorites." For more information, go to Peter's official website. This interview was recorded June 15, 2005.
Brad Rutter Interview (June 29, 2005) Brad Rutter was a five time "Jeopardy!" champion in 2000, won their Tournament of Champions in 2001, won the "Million Dollar Masters" tournament in 2002, and won the "Jeopardy! Ultimate Tournament of Champions" on May 25, 2005. At the time, Brad also hosted a Lancaster, Pennsylvania, TV quiz show called "Inquizitive". This interview was recorded June 1, 2005.
Joyce Cooling Interview (June 15, 2005) Contemporary jazz guitarist Joyce Cooling has had four albums since 1997: "Playing It Cool," "Keeping Cool," "Third Wish," and "This Girl's Got To Play." At the time, she was working on her fifth album, "Revolving Door," which would not be released until September 2006. She also has a previously unreleased album out called "Cameo." For more information, go to Joyce's official website. This interview was recorded May 25, 2005.
Jeff Lorber Interview (June 8, 2005) Contemporary jazz pianist Jeff Lorber made his debut in 1977 with the Jeff Lorber Fusion. He has been solo since 1982. His latest album at the time of this interview was "Flipside." "He Had A Hat" was released on April 3, 2007. His first album with Peak Records will be released in June 2008. For more information, go to Jeff's official website. This interview was recorded May 19, 2005.
Thom Huge Interview, Part 1 (June 1, 2005) Thom Huge Interview, Part 2 (June 1, 2005) Thom Huge (HUE-ghee) was the voice of Jon Arbuckle and others in the "Garfield" TV specials and on "Garfield and Friends." At the time, Thom was the News Director for the Big Horn Radio Network and KODI-AM in Cody, Wyoming. He retired from that position on November 3, 2006, to become the Director of the Buffalo Bill Art Show and Sale. This interview was recorded May 13, 2005.
Brad Sherwood Interview (May 25, 2005) Brad Sherwood was a performer on the British and American versions of "Whose Line is it Anyway?," as well as "Drew Carey's Green Screen Show." He was a panelist on the 2000-2002 version of "To Tell the Truth." And he has played various characters on "The Tonight Show with Jay Leno" since Jay's run began in 1992. Since the interview first aired, "Drew Carey's Green Screen Show" was picked up by Comedy Central and aired in Fall 2005. It was not picked up for a second season. On March 28, 2007, Brad appeared with Colin Mochrie at the annual Radio and Television Correspondents Dinner in Washington, D.C. This interview was recorded May 11, 2005. As with the first David Benoit interview, I apologize for this one. My interview skills gradually improve from here.
Laura Day Interview (May 18, 2005) At the time of this interview, Laura Day was a designer on "Trading Spaces" and "Trading Spaces: Family." She has her own company called Laura Day Design. This interview was recorded May 12, 2005.
David Benoit Interview (May 5, 2004) The first interview conducted was with contemporary jazz pianist David Benoit. Since the interview, Benoit joined Peak Records, an affiliate of Concord Records, which has a children's division. And rather than do a children's CD, he made an orchestral CD called "Orchestral Stories." Shortly after that, he produced and appeared on "40 Years: A Charlie Brown Christmas." "Full Circle" was released on June 27, 2006. "Heroes" will be released May 27, 2008. This interview was recorded April 28, 2004. My apologies for the way it was poorly conducted. It was my first interview, I was nervous, and I had just written up the questions within the hour.