Welcome to a new edition of the Neon Jazz interview series featuring accomplished Florida-based jazz composer, educator, and recording artist Scott Lee.

In this episode, we discuss his ambitious and genre-defying 2026 album, Greetings from Florida: Postcards from Paradise, a compelling musical exploration of the myths, realities, beauty, and contradictions that define Florida.

This innovative song-cycle project features acclaimed jazz vocalist and guitarist Camila Meza and draws lyrical inspiration from eight poems by Cuban-American poet Carolina Hospital. Together, they create a rich musical narrative that explores the tension between the dream of paradise and the lived experiences of those who call Florida home.

Known for blending jazz, classical influences, and contemporary popular music, Scott Lee has developed a distinctive compositional voice. His music often incorporates odd-meter grooves, interlocking rhythmic patterns, sophisticated harmonies, and a unique balance between intellectual complexity and emotional immediacy.

In this conversation, we discuss the inspiration behind Greetings from Florida: Postcards from Paradise, songwriting, composition, poetry, collaboration, jazz Education, bass performance, creativity, and the evolving landscape of contemporary jazz.

Scott also reflects on his musical journey, artistic influences, teaching career, and the process of transforming poetry into powerful musical storytelling.

This is a fascinating conversation for jazz lovers, composers, musicians, educators, and anyone interested in the intersection of literature, culture, and music.

Get the album and learn more:
Scott Lee Official Website

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Joe Dimino Podcaster/Artist

Joe Dimino has been writing & creating in a variety of capacities since his college days at the University of Missouri-Kansas City somewhere around 1993. If you are keeping score, that would be about 29 years+. It all began at UMKCs University News as a Sports Writer & turned into a myriad of expressive avenues. Inventing poems, art, video & audio has always been in the proverbial cards.