Evoking the compelling Sarah McLachlan and the iconic Joni Mitchell (rich, organic melodies and vocal harmonies), Scott's sixth disc weaves a sumptuous musical tapestry, each song even more beautiful than its predecessor.

Written after the death of her 3½-year-old son from liver cancer, Scott's piano-based songs become meditations on the fragile threads we consistently strain at—getting from one end of the day to the next and the small beauties and great loves we miss while on that constricted, linear pursuit. Textured with strings, notably keyboardist David Sancious's elegiac arrangement for "World on Fire," and tempered with Tony Levin's ever-fluid bass, Scott, coproducer Kevin Bartlett and engineer David Cook create a welcoming atmosphere in which the weary can stop, rest, and listen—either to their own hearts or the universal heart beating in all the songs.

Pinpointing favorite tracks on Parachute is like shredding a whole cloth, but for those of you with short attention spans, start with the opening, title track. Then try the exquisite "Sarah." Then program "Come to Me," "World on Fire," and "Oh God." Then be kind to yourself and let the disc play in full. You'll hear what I mean.

Local singer-songwriter Gennarose follows in the footsteps of such artists as Rickie Lee Jones and Laura Nyro on her latest release, Spirit. Stylistically, she recalls the Norah Jones brand of smooth, smoky vocals on comfortable, laid-back songs, creating a sound that is extremely listenable and relaxing. All the tracks save one—a cover of Leonard Cohen's "Hallelujah"—are originals in which she shows great versatility as a songwriter. She tends to favor a slow rock beat, making generous use of a jazzy instrumental vibe that lends a coolness to the music. The disc also displays her talent for lyrics, even including two versions of the same song—one in English ("Who Could Ask for More") and one in Spanish ("Quien Queria Mas"). Her arrangement of "Hallelujah" seems to borrow from Jeff Buckley's version of the song, though her light piano replaces Buckley's guitar. Her relaxed, soulful vocal work fares well on this track, just as it does with all the others. Perhaps uncharacteristically, Gennarose also performs with Warwick's Grammy-winning polka king, Jimmy Sturr. On this pop-jazz gem she never fails to sound sincere, and this attribute alone should contribute to her success.

Matt Finley, former Dutchess Community College professor and dean, has also been a professional musician since 1962. His Brazilian Wish showcases 13 of the hippest Brazilian jazz performers in the Hudson Valley. Producer/arranger Jen Werking has played with jazz legends Grover Washington Jr., Bill Evans, Larry Coryell, and others.

These silky-smooth grooves are expertly crafted and easy on the soul. The title track is soft and sensual, cool and breezy. Not the hot, sweaty, dirty dancing associated with the music of Carnivale. No rough edges anywhere, the sounds here are effortlessly delivered. "There You Are" is a piano-and-trumpet-driven samba. This disc never takes its eyes off its roots, and is a hybrid of Brazilian rhythms under sleek, melodic jazz styles. There are nine tracks on the CD and over 40 minutes of clean, clear, dazzling listening. The last tune, "Softly Speaking," is a graceful kiss good night and an invitation to return for more. Take time to destress under the spell. Hear it on cdbaby.com and check mattfinley.com for biographical information on this amazing cast of top-notch players.