Every time I listen to “In the Country” from 1970’s ‘Chicago II,’ I feel the freedom of the solitude and being alone in my thoughts, the gentle breeze tousling my hair.

Five years seems too long between releases for modern jazz guitarist and composer Sebastian Noelle when the a release like ‘Shelter’ sounds so sweet.

Leave it to another groundbreaking veteran like Denny Zeitlin to give Wayne Shorter’s songs tributes that are actually worthwhile hearing nearly as much as the originals.

‘In Search Of Better Days’ never needs to go searching for a feel-good groove, because Bluey and the rest of Incognito are naturals at creating them.

Is Yes’ “The Ancient / Giants Under the Sun” an easy listen? No, but it sure is a good one.

Grace Potter and the Nocturnals’ second disc, issued in June 2010, found them ready to break out – even if it wasn’t their best work.

Paul Jolly, a free jazz musician, producer and advocate, has made good on his own personal mantra: “Wake up every day, and do something positive and with love.”

Released in June 2009, the Evan Parker Electro-Acoustic Ensemble’s ‘The Moment’s Energy’ is made up of a continuum of evolving ideas, rather than actual songs.

Chicago will be excellent throughout the Terry Kath years, but rarely, if ever better than this deep cut. “Poem for the People” is the sound of a band that can do anything and do it well.

‘Wilco (The Album)’ arrived in June 2009 at a fork in the road: Would Wilco keep moving forward or stick with a winning formula?