Luciano Sweep Over My Soul (X-terminator/VP)

The messenger of love has returned to stand on the mountaintop and smile on all he surveys. Luciano, always smooth with the lyrics, sings out from his soul, forming a tight hold on almost all of the 11 songs on this album. Tracks like "Ulterior Motive" and "Can't Stop Jah Works" find the man in classic form, always moving forward with the sweetest riddims in his corner. 8/10 (Scott C) At Medley, Sat., Feb 13

Heartbreak Hill Self-titled (independent)

Roots music continues to thrive as a kind of equal and opposite cultural reaction for those who would find Busta Rhymes and big beat utterly incomprehensible. I mean, bluegrass band Heartbreak Hill live in downtown Toronto. But that certainly don't make no never mind when it comes to coverin' lickety-split, Bill Monroe banjo licks or writing updated takes on mountain music the same way Gillian Welch makes dustbowl folk sound downright contemporary. 7.5/10 (Chris Yurkiw) At Café Campus with Fred Eaglesmith this Friday, February 5

Kurt Elling This Time It's Love (Blue Note/EMI)

Chicagoan Elling is the thinking man's singer, his Jazz Fest appearance being a standout. On this, his third CD, he's joined by the superb trio of pianist Laurence Hobgood and special guests, Windy City veterans John Frigo (violin) and tenorman Eddie Johnson. Standards like "My Foolish Heart" and "The Very Thought of You" are treated respectfully and there's also a look at McCoy Tyner's "Effendi," plus the the Lester Young-inspired "She's Funny That Way." Mr. Elling is the best new singer around! 9/10 (Len Dobbin)