The Bo-Keys, with a spring-loaded, testifying Memphis vibe associated with Otis Redding, Rufus Thomas and Al Green, have put out an album that bubbles like a dark, spicy gumbo.

Little Worlds is another one of those oddly configured trios that’s been popping up lately in jazz, but there is nothing gimmicky sounding from this guitar (Ryan Mackstaller), trombone (Rick Parker) and drums (Tim Kuhl) getup. With all three of these musicians being veterans of rock, jazz and whack jazz, Book One is a great combination of all three music [...]

At the El Rey Theater, Los Angeles I don’t get to see concerts like I used to. Back in college, it seemed like I saw something every couple of weeks.

Having already shown a smart penchant for pensive, piano-driven pop, Vanessa Carlton becomes quieter still for this effective update of a modern-day John Lennon holiday standard.