The word ‘Mahobin’ means ‘thermos bottle’ but also ‘magic bottle’ in Japanese, and the magic made for ‘Live at Big Apple in Kobe’ that retained its passion throughout meant that this fledgling group had lived up to both meanings of the name.

The men and women who make popcorn in a Wylie, Texas factory believe strongly enough in their mission to devise a cool 90-second rap ditty.

The Satoko Fujii Orchestra Berlin really comes onto its own with ‘Ninety-Nine Years.’

Tom Tallitsch’s ‘Wheelhouse’ is all in a day’s work for this underappreciated tenor saxman, who once again demonstrates the continued vitality of the hard bop form. If that kind of jazz is in your wheelhouse, then this album is sure to be as well.

Is it jazz-rock fusion or just instrumental jam-rock? Such descriptions are superfluous when the music connects as ‘Let It Wander’ by Circles Around The Sun does.

Whether it’s individual heroics or wonderful ensemble symmetry, ‘Rhapsody’ begins with the mind of Bobby Previte. He not only had a concept but saw it to a fully developed work that stays true to its mission and articulated it well.

The return of Jason Stein’s Locksmith Isidore with ‘After Caroline’ is a welcome one because these guys don’t slouch for a second in taking on Stein’s challenging material.

Here is the streaming premiere of “Dipsea Steps” from Brian Krock’s exciting new big band, Big Heart Machine.

The Rob Dixon Trio’s ‘Coast To Crossroads’ is funk-jazz that’s the best because it comes from the best.

Sounding very much like themselves while incrementally reinventing themselves, The Necks’ constant tweaking of their formula keeps the music fresh and full of fascination. ‘Body’ nudges the band forward on their long, highly rewarding journey.