Stella Cole 8/22-28
Vocalist Stella Cole is a romantic and not afraid to show it. In our time when so much is slick or ironic, Stella chooses to be sincere and sing from the heart, digging deep into the emotional journey of a song, always with a bit of hope shining through, reflecting the classic musicals of the 1930s, ‘40s and ‘50s that she loved as a child.
Stella has toured with Post Modern Jukebox, with her own band, and now, three albums later, she’s off and running with loads of fans who include her twenty-something contemporaries, those who heard some of those songs originally, and everyone in between.
Matthew Sheens 8/29-9/4
Australian pianist/composer Matthew Sheens listens intently, whether playing music or having a conversation. Matthew’s musical inspirations range from Herbie Hancock to Kurt Rosenwickel to George Russell and everything in between so I knew a fun conversation about it all was in store.
I met Matthew in April 2025 shortly after he became an American citizen, something he didn’t plan on when he came to the States on scholarship to the New England Conservatory but rather a reality that unfolded as he fell in love with New York and its unique music scene. Before and after this milestone Matthew won numerous awards and commissions and when we spoke in September 2025, he’d just finished an untitled CD of original compositions which we preview during our conversation.
Diogo Brown 9/5-11
Latin Grammy-nominated Brazilian bassist/composer Diogo Brown is as enthusiastic and joyful as his music, both inspiring you to feel great and maybe just get up and dance.
His latest CD, Beleza Pura, with his eleven-piece band, Gee-ah-fee-EE-rah Rio Miami is a celebration of Brazilian music of the 1940s and ‘50s that brought together the sounds of Brazil with American big band swing. Gah-fee-EE-rah Rio Miami puts a modern twist on it all by adding musical influences from the rich cultural diversity of Miami adding in some funk and jazz for good measure.
Nicole Zuraitis Two 9/12-18
Singer/songwriter/pianist, Nicole Zuraitis has a big heart and a big voice to match. She leans into both to spread her love and art around, always hoping to make the world a better place.
Nicole first appeared on Jazz Inspired to discuss her CD How Love Begins, which went on to win a Grammy for Best Jazz Vocal Album. She won a second Grammy the following year, along with her husband, drummer Dan Pugach. Now, Live at Vic’s Las Vegas, her first recorded live, has two Grammy Nominations. I was curious how this recognition has changed her life and what she’s discovered from the experience.