Arts

The Upside of Jazz

Atlanta-based jazz pianist Joe Alterman expresses his deep appreciation of jazz and swing in his performances and compositions. Now he shares that love of jazz on The Upside of Jazz, celebrating the legendary performers of jazz and exploring what makes the music so timeless and endearing to listeners.

Latest Episodes:

Jazz Behind the Iron Curtain Mar 28, 2026

Show notes

Today he plays jazz, tomorrow he betrays the motherland.

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Oliver Wood - "My favorite thing is not knowing how it's going to come out" Mar 21, 2026

Show notes

Guitarist Oliver Wood (who happens to be Joe's guitar teacher from years ago) and Joe talk about the joy of being surprised by the music you make as well as Wood's career, including touring with Tinsley Ellis, playing with King Johnson, and form The Wood Brothers with his brother Chris.

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Jimmy Heath on Jazz at the Intersection of Black and Jewish Communities Mar 14, 2026

Show notes

The relationship between Black and Jewish musicians in jazz has a long and sometimes complicated history. In this episode, saxophonist Jimmy Heath reflects on his own experiences and what he learned from a lifetime in the music.

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Ron Carter - “I’m bringing that history book back” Mar 07, 2026

Show notes

Bassist Ron Carter joins Joe to talk about growing up with church music, his introduction into jazz, and returning to his church roots on the new album, “Sweet, Sweet Spirit.”

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Rufus Reid - “If we take care of business, the band can fly” Mar 07, 2026

Show notes

Joe and bassist Rufus Reid have a conversation about the role the bass plays in a band and finding chemistry with fellow musicians .

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John Scofield - "All you have to do is find better notes" Feb 28, 2026

Show notes

Guitarist John Scofield joins Joe for a discussion about what playing music means for Scofield, seamlessly flowing between genres, and more.

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How Milt Gabler & Commodore Records Changed Music Feb 21, 2026

Show notes

From small record shop on 42nd Street in New York City to recording company that worked with the likes of Billie Holiday, Ella Fitzgerald, and Bill Haley & The Comets, Commodore Records holds an important place in music history.

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Christian McBride - "Always listen first" Feb 14, 2026

Show notes

Bassist Christian McBride and host Joe Alterman talk why jazz is far from dead and McBride's latest album, "Without Further Ado, Vol. 1."

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Sonny Rollins - "God is jazz" Feb 07, 2026

Show notes

Joe sits down for a conversation with the Saxophone Colossus himself.

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Jazz in Nazi Germany Jan 31, 2026

Show notes

Jazz as sustenance. Jazz as resistance.