I was pretty chuffed today at work to see a copy of the James Valentine CD “Debut” and see my name in the “thank you” credits.

Really very touched actually.

But it doesn’t mean, James, if you’re reading this you’re going to get a favourable review. Although often compromised, I can’t be “bought” all that easily.

That said, I’ve spent the night at home listening to the CD all the way through, not just listening to bits of tracks as I some times do.

The CD is a combination of interesting jazz instrumental interpretations of well kown songs such as “Ashes To Ashes” (David Bowie), “Help From My Friends” (Beatles) and “First Time Ever I Saw Your Face” (Ewan MacColl/Roberta Flack” – my three favourites on the CD – as well as well-known singer songwriter tracks including my favourite on this, “Clap Hands”.

I remember him saying at a show a couple of years ago he never had much time for singer-songwriters. And then when he discovered the likes of Tom Waits and Leonard Cohen, his eyes were opened.

It was VERY listenable. I suspect I may even play it a second time :) And perhaps a third time. Seriously though, it’s very good.

The official launch is next Friday night, which should be a lot of fun. It’s out through ABC Music.

As for me? I’ve been a bit crook today.

I woke up this morning hardly able to speak. I blame it on yesterday’s big dust-storm. So for about half the day all I could manage was a croak here and there as I went about my work.

Odd, since the only other time I’ve ever lost my voice was back in in October 2006. It came close today though.

At the end of the day I’m feeling a lot better, and my voice is sounding better, but I’m still feeling a bit crook. All that bloody dust!