Episode Details

Welcome to a new edition of the Neon Jazz interview series. We talk with Toronto jazz vocalist, composer, and arranger Alex Samaras about his 2025 Juno-nominated album Alex Samaras Meets Judy Garland and his remarkable journey in the music world.

As a child, Alex spent hours in the basement of his family home singing along to Judy Garland recordings. The intensity and emotional power of Judy Garland left a permanent imprint — and this album fulfills a lifelong artistic dream.

Known for his extraordinary vocal range and fearless genre-blending approach, Alex pushes vocal jazz beyond traditional boundaries. His work seamlessly incorporates classical, world music, and contemporary influences, creating a sound that is both deeply personal and boldly innovative.

In this conversation, we explore:

• The making of Alex Samaras Meets Judy Garland

• Reinterpreting iconic repertoire through jazz

• Vocal range, technique, and artistic risk

• Genre fusion in modern vocal jazz

• The emotional legacy of Judy Garland

• The Canadian jazz scene and global influence

This is a heartfelt and visionary tribute that feels like a dream realized.

🎶 Get the album:
https://tryal1.bandcamp.com/album/alex-samaras-meets-judy-garland-3

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