The James McGowan Ensemble’s ‘Reaching Out’ is a blend of powerful solos, cleverly arranged ensemble work, and rich sound that’s uplifting and satisfying.

Joan Torres’s All Is Fused may be known as a fusion jazz band but on ‘Embrace Form,’ their improvisational skills come to the fore.

Replete with a new band and some imaginative compositions, ‘Vertigo’ offers a different side to Julian Costello’s music.

Eric Anders and Mark O’Bitz have worked together for more than 20 years in various genres but their musical home has always been in folk and Americana.

The Jamie Baum Septet + has achieved something very hard on ‘What Times Are These,’ speaking from the soul of both composer and listener.

With ‘The Love Insane,’ Wabi Sabi learned new ways to piece together an LP, using various pieces recorded in various locations rather than having each other present.

A conceptual album that draws on many influences, ‘Reaching In’ demonstrates James McGowan’s skill at looking beyond genre definitions.

Defne Sahin’s ‘Hope’ is an album of many facets, each one a little gem in the beautifully finished piece.

This delightful single is dedicated to Silvano Pagliuca-Mena’s mother, Anna Mena, a performer who dances to Spanish music.

‘In the Rain Shadow’ is largely inspired by progressive fingerstyle guitarist and composer Mark Vickness’ move to the high desert of California.