Music

NRBQ are every bit as adventurous as they were as a young bunch of guys playing around at the Adams home some 51 years ago, even though Terry Adams stands alone as the only band member spanning the timeline from then to now. How he’s been able to hang on to the energy and charming irreverence that permeates this box of collected performances (both studio and live in concert) is a testament to his continued enthusiasm and love of music.

Rawlins is an engaging writer who obviously relishes digging out the meaty stories behind the songs he loves. His new book will delight anyone interested in music history or who loves early jazz.

One could view 'In Winter' as a stylish stopgap between Melua's last recording 'Ketevan' and her next album. However, one should embrace it as an inspired seasonal concept album that ties 'The House' as her most ambitious undertaking yet.

'Strunkin'' is straight-ahead jazz at its finest, recalling the sophisticated musings from the likes of Duke Ellington, Count Basie, and Benny Goodman.

Winzer invites listeners to reflect, with a set of delicately arranged Christmas songs, on the significance of this spiritually charged time of the year.

'Side Hustle' has tracks that could come straight out of a musical.

If you've never seen Iggy Pop in concert, 'Post Pop Depression: Live at the Royal Albert Hall' is the next best thing.

Directed by Martin R. Smith, this memorable celebration of pure talent and collaboration comes highly recommended. It is also available on Blu-ray.

Gwen Hughes captures the ups and downs of her passage through life with profound authenticity, and revealing honesty.

Fall Out Boy's new live DVD, 'The Boys of Zummer Tour: Live in Chicago,' lets fans experience all of their hits in one place.