So maybe no one asked for a reunion of Todd Rundgren’s Utopia? It’s a question that should have been asked. And ‘Live at the Chicago Theatre’ is the answer.

Jazz is the music of pure emotion, and it’s the vehicle by which Michael Bisio, Kirk Knuffke amd Fred Lonberg-Holm sorted out their feelings about a tragedy.

This sends a clear signal that success hadn’t changed Left Lane Cruiser. If anything, they’re doubling down on what made them America’s premier blues-rock band.

Charles Rumback’s ‘Cadillac Turns’ has all the energy and capriciousness of a free-jazz blowing session but still retains a strong sense of melody.

The overly generous folks at Walter Becker Media just dropped yet another shard of unfinished work from the late, great Steely Dan cofounder.

Wendy Eisenberg and Shane Parish’s ‘Nervous Systems’ is just two masters of experimental guitar in an impromptu meeting of the minds.

Samantha Boshnack takes her ambitions to the next level and then puts it all on the line with a new band in front of a live audience. No sweat.

Reaching within his household for inspiration, bass master Joe Martin takes a rare turn leading a star-studded group.

Bennie Maupin went solo 45 years ago this month, taking concepts (and players) from his time with Herbie Hancock – but using a far different approach.

Can both transcendental and earthly jazz coexist on the same record? With ‘In the Key of the Universe,’ Joey DeFrancesco answers with an emphatic ‘yes.’