VA - Best of ABC Jazz '26 (2026) [Hi-Res]

To celebrate Ausmusic Month, ABC Jazz is proud to present The Best of ABC Jazz '26, an annual collection of studio recordings that showcases the remarkable depth, creativity and diversity of Australian jazz.

This compilation brings together artists and ensembles that ABC Jazz has championed throughout the year, highlighting original compositions, unique collaborations and outstanding performances from across the contemporary Australian jazz scene. More than twenty musicians and ensembles are represented on the collection, reflecting the breadth of talent that continues to shape jazz in Australia today.

The album features an inspiring mix of established artists and emerging voices. Among those represented are vocalist Emma Pask and pianist Kevin Hunt, acclaimed improviser and pianist Matt McMahon, and emerging leaders Des Cannings, Pat Jaffe and Tessie Overmyer.
The collection includes tracks from 2026 ARIA-nominated releases by Lauren Tsamouras and Tom Avgenicos, as well as the pioneering large ensemble Ten Part Invention. Also featured is a new crop of recordings from the ABC Jazz Artist in Residence series, including performances by Hinano Fujisaki, Steve Elphick, Flora Carbo, Chris Cody, Lauren Kate Henderson, Brendan Clarke and Lachlan McKenzie.

Spanning intimate solo performances, inventive small-group recordings and ambitious ensemble works, the collection offers a snapshot of Australian jazz in all its richness and variety. The artists featured here represent a broad spectrum of musical approaches, drawing on jazz traditions while embracing influences from across Australia's cultural and artistic landscape.