David Benoit is a three-time Grammy nominated pianist who has charted over 25 albums since 1980.  He has arranged, conducted and performed music for many popular jazz and pop artists including David Sanborn, Patti Austin, Kenny Loggins and Brian McKnight.  In our December of 2012 interview with David, he shares with our executive producer Ray White insights on his early career, his recording days with GRP Records, Benoit/Freeman Project and his album Conversation.  David's latest album is A Midnight Redezvous.  Lisa Davis, "Your Hostess with the Mostest," showcases guitarist Norman Brown, whose latest release is Let's Get Away.  In addition, blue-eyed soul singer/keyboardist Michael McDonald - who's out on the 50th Anniversary Tour with The Doobie Brothers, is featured.  Smooth sounds, hits you right in your soul, on the Coool CAT!

Dan Kuramoto co-founded the contemporary jazz band Hiroshima, featuring Japanese instruments, in 1974.  Throughout the years the band has been nominated for several Grammy awards and received two Gold albums.  Multi-award winning program director Ray White, sat down backstage with Dan in November of 2021 to talk about the storied career of the band that launched in Los Angeles.  Their latest album is 2020.  In our showcase segment we honor our very good friend Nick Colionne, who unexpectedly passed away on January 1, 2022.  A beloved jazz guitarist known for his enticing stage persona, we called Nick - Mr. Entertainment. You'll find shows featuring Nick on Episodes 006 and 118.  Godspeed, Nick.  We all miss you.  On the leading edge of contemporary jazz...yep, it's the Coool CAT!