Sophisticated without being stiff, the Mark Wade Trio’s ‘New Stages’ rewards both curious jazz listeners and classical fans alike.

Bassist Michael Formanek who has a reputation for consistently coming up with novel creative approaches to jazz just put his imagination into overdrive for ‘New Digs.’

‘ELEPHANT’ shows Adam O’Farrill’s daring to innovate new jazz with disparate non-jazz components comes from the acumen to conceive it and execute it with confidence.

Peter Somuah knows how to push jazz forward to present-day vibes without losing any of jazz’s vintage vitality, and he does it his own way.

Rachel Sutton’s ‘Realms’ is a gorgeous album, skillfully put together with the perfect mix of emotion, light-hearted numbers and good ballads.

‘In My Dreams’ is a perfect reminder of why Bill Frisell one of the most important figures of American music, always connecting the majesty of the past with vision for taking it into the future.

What is striking about the Antonio Farao and Stephane Belmondo Quartet’s ‘Do It!’ is how it unites traditional jazz influences with improvised, free playing.

We check out New Orleans-based supergroup Nolatet’s “Somethin’ to Relax With,” their swingin’ advance single from the upcoming album ‘Somethin’ to Relax With.’

“American Crow” is a new recording from pre-eminent jazz orchestra leader Maria Schneider, which she describes as “an extension” of her magnificent double album ‘Data Lords.’

The re-release of Joe Chambers’ ‘Double Exposure’ should provoke a long overdue re-examination of a career that touched on several turning points in jazz using multiple talents.