Michael Barton’s The Anxiety Suite is worth a listen, especially by an empathetic audience that is willing to undertake a not-overwhelming 36-minute journey into one artist’s multi-faceted personal and sonic experience.

Nearly five years after his debut album Altitude, Chicago trumpeter Connor Bernhard gathered most of his cohorts for another recording of personalized themes, now released as Pathways, which continues along the same lines as the debut, albeit with more offerings and chances at covers. What also returns is the same bright, engaging horn that distinguishes Bernhard and lifts the proceedings significantly. His band—the three repeaters Julius Tucker on piano, Jeff Swanson on guit

On Threefold, Chris Madsen and his ultra-talented rhythm section extend their already evident fellowship into new territory that cements them as a formidable jazz unit.

Chicago baritone Paul Marinaro delivers a stunning tribute to Duke Ellington and Billy Strayhorn with Mood Ellington — a bold, beautifully arranged double album brought to life with a nine-piece band and a 12-piece violin ensemble. Our latest review dives into the artistry, arrangements, and live performances at Studio5, where Marinaro proves once again why he remains one of Chicago’s most compelling jazz vocalists.