Welcome to a new edition of the Neon Jazz interview series with Kansas City jazz organist, composer, and bandleader Chris Hazelton. We caught up with this very busy musician to talk about his new 2026 album In Rotation, his work with the Cory Weeds Duo covering Huey Lewis tunes, live performances, and much more.
Following up his acclaimed 2023 release After Dark, In Rotation explores time, texture, groove, improvisation, and mood through a distinctive instrumental lineup featuring Hammond B-3 organ, vibraphone, saxophone, and drums. The album showcases an exceptional lineup of Kansas City jazz talent including Brett Jackson on tenor and baritone saxophone, Peter Schlamb on vibraphone, and John Kizilarmut on drums.
Known for his soulful Hammond organ sound, inventive improvisation, and energetic live performances, Chris Hazelton continues to be a major force in the Kansas City jazz scene and beyond.
In this interview, we discuss jazz organ, composition, live performance, modern jazz, improvisation, Kansas City music, collaboration, recording, touring, Huey Lewis reinterpretations, and the inspiration behind In Rotation.
We dig into all of it and more. Enjoy this interview with Chris Hazelton.
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