The Black Keys released ‘Turn Blue,’ an album that refused to cling to past glory, five years ago today.

Released five years ago, David Ian’s ‘Valentine’s Day’ deftly explored the contours of romantic moods – from the lusty to the lovely.

‘Welcome to Earth’ features three different bands, a sextet and two trios, with composer, arranger and drummer Jerry Kalaf’s melodic sense at the heart of everything.

Donna Deussen’s new collaboration with Paul Weitz feels like it came together over black coffee among friends. In essence, that is the story.

Sleater-Kinney’s ‘No Cities to Love’ is a set of 10 sharp daggers, clocking in at just a little over 30 minutes and leaving the place a damn wreck.

Offering an alluring mix of original pieces and standards, Marianne Solivan’s ‘Spark,’ is a smoking session of well-rounded material.

A funky, groovy midnight run of a record, Ali Bey’s satisfying ‘My Finest Hour’ features an abundance of grooves.

Ashley Daneman’s new album, while certainly couched in the world of jazz, is also irrepressibly personal and boldly imperfect.

Her range is inspiring, her tone is deep, her fire is irrefutable.

Daring but not self indulgent, this double album would be a risk in lesser hands.