James Valentine

1 week ago | abc.net.au | James Valentine

Singer Estelle Perrault travelled the world as a kid, living in France, Taiwan, Japan and Canada - but the musical soundtrack to her youth was jazz. Perrault grew up listening to Shirley Horn and Betty Carter, and those vocal influences have made their way onto the young musician's debut album. Featuring original music that reflects on her globe-trotting childhood, Perrault adds some modern groove elements to her jazz vocabulary, joining a host of emerging players across the session.

2 weeks ago | abc.net.au | James Valentine

I'd really hoped I'd never have to do this again. I've now twice gone on the radio on 702 ABC Sydney, and published articles online, revealing details of my disease. In March 2024, I announced that I had oesophageal cancer, and I was heading off for major surgery and it might be a while before I'd be back. In September 2024, I came back on air, and let everyone know, that I'd had a more minor procedure, removed the tumour in my oesophagus and would then be monitored for any future outbreaks.

2 weeks ago | abc.net.au | James Valentine

The Yellowjackets are an ensemble that has been together for nearly 50 years, and despite many line-up changes over the decades, some of the core members are still around. Keyboard player Russell Ferrante was a founding member and is still at it in 2025 - as is the long-serving Bob Mintzer on sax.

3 weeks ago | abc.net.au | James Valentine

Pasquale Grasso is a name on the rise in the world of jazz guitar after receiving a stand-out endorsement from the legendary Pat Metheny. Originally from Italy, Grasso grew up on the music of beboppers like Bud Powell and Dizzy Gillespie, and it's their influence - more than today’s leaders - that the guitarist has carried into his career.

1 month ago | abc.net.au | James Valentine

On the platter this week is a new work from Janette Mason. The British pianist has been active across the music scene, backing the likes of Oasis and K.d. Lang, but jazz has always been where she's most at home. Mason has just released her fifth album 'ReWired', and it's a trio date showcasing her energetic, modern arrangements of tunes from across the musical spectrum.