Progressive music has moved in the direction suggested long ago by ‘Junk Magic’ but as Craig Taborn revisits these ideas, it’s clear they remain unique in an increasingly crowded field.

Unlike many recordings back then, ‘Sur la mer’ doesn’t go overboard on smothering the Moody Blues’ natural talents in a blanket of gadgetry.

‘Hit Me: The Best of Ian Dury’ is pure nostalgia, but curated in such a way that you get a real insight into his musical persona.

Ron Miles’ music is always both relaxed and cerebral, a rare combination of qualities that few can pull off so convincingly. But once again with ‘Rainbow Sign’ he does, and with the ample help of some very special friends.

“In a World of Our Own” is a pleasing middle-of-the-road rock Yes song which needs a few more progressive elements to be memorable.

Dominated by a stirring dance groove, Stephanie Angelini and Vince Tomas’ transatlantic “Midnight Blue” features all the markings of a club hit.

Stumbling into Chicago’s Robert Lamm-sung “One From the Heart” was like finding a relic from an ancient civilization.

Daniel Carter, Patrick Holmes, Matthew Putman, Hilliard Greene and Federico Ughi create improvisational music of uncommon elegance and shared vision.

The Pretty Things were right there at the beginning of the British Invasion but just never made it particularly big – not on this side of the pond anyway.

Kevin Godley, William Shatner and Raphael Pannier are part of the latest edition of Five for the Road, an occasional look at music that’s been in my car lately.