Lvl 1 - JAMES SHORTLAND QUARTET (MELB)

“James is part of a very strong generation of young Australian emerging jazz artists, James Shortland’s project will make a significant contribution to the Australian jazz scene’

- Dr Kevin Hunt (Academic Fellow in Jazz and Improvisation

SYDNEY CONSERVATORIUM OF MUSIC)

James Shortland Quartet ★★★★ - The Age, Jess Nicholas, Melbourne Jazz Co-Op Jazzlab 15/06/2025

James Shortland is one of Australia’s most exciting emerging double bassists and jazz artists. Having performed as a sideman alongside some of Australia’s leading jazz musicians, including Dale Barlow, Kevin Hunt, Julien Wilson, Andy Sugg, Warwick Alder, Andrew Dickeson and John Harkins, Shortland has established himself as an active and versatile member of the Australian jazz scene.

Shortland recently released his debut album, Emergence, a deeply personal body of work that exemplifies his honesty and vulnerability as an artist. Through the album, he shares his journey through addiction, offering audiences an intimate insight into his personal experiences. In conjunction with the release, Shortland presented this body of work through a national Australian tour. Highlights included appearances as a featured artist at the Brisbane International Jazz Festival, Coffs Harbour Conservatorium and Arts Yackandandah.

Originally from Newcastle, later based in Sydney, and now residing in Melbourne, James’ career has seen him perform widely across the country, shaping a musical voice grounded in versatility, curiosity and a deep commitment to the jazz tradition. Notably, Shortland has performed at the Melbourne International Jazz Festival (2025), Manly Jazz Festival (2022 and 2023) and Brisbane International Jazz Festival (2026). He also performs regularly at Melbourne jazz venues, including The JazzLab and Uptown Jazz Cafe.

As both an accompanist and collaborator, James has worked with a wide range of musicians. Notably, he contributed as a co-composer alongside Australian-Canadian vocalist Tiana Young on her debut album, Serendipity, where his musical voice is woven throughout the record.

In addition to his work as a sideman, James maintains a strong focus on presenting his own original music. His compositions, performed across Australia, explore new creative ideas while remaining firmly rooed in the African-American jazz tradition. With a growing body of work and a distinctive musical identity, James continues to establish himself as a compelling voice within the Australian jazz landscape.

3MBS INTERVIEW: https://omny.fm/shows/3mbs-interviews/james-shortland-emergence-album-launch

EMERGENCE STREAMING AND BANDCAMP LINKS: https://jamesshortland.bandcamp.com/album/emergence

https://open.spotify.com/album/4ypfK5iEftU1bfTzmhCgy7?si=c498e366e9284d5e

7pm Doors/Restaurant 🍷 🍕 8.30pm band