Bassist Marcus Miller’s newest release, Renaissance, directly references his time as a member of the Miles Davis band in the 1980s

Tom Johnston, longtime frontman of the Doobie Brothers, traces his inspirations past other 1970s rock titans — all the way back to Little Richard, blues legends like Albert, Freddie and B.B. King and, especially, James Brown.

Brian Valentine — perfect name, right? — had a deeply romantic idea for his wedding reception: Book Tom Petty. He’d been engaged, after all, at one of Petty’s concerts in 2010.

When it comes to boy/girl musical acts, there’s nothing typical at all about Washington, D.C.-based duo Janel & Anthony. They don’t sing, they don’t play jazz, they sure as hell don’t play pop

Another Monday, another chance to dive into fresh musical delights from the likes of Balsam Range, Branford Marsalis, Keith Jarrett, Marcus Miller and the Trishas, among others.

Like so many of Bruce’s songs, a relatively simple story ends up going a lot deeper. So what appears to be a gangland tale presented with cinematic detail, ends up reflecting shadows back onto the listener.

Detroit bluesman Johnnie Bassett, a Florida native who only late in life began releasing well-received albums as a leader, has died at 76 after a battle with cancer.