Azita's "How Will You?" -- The fourth Drag City disc from Chicago's Azita is a hard-to-peg collection of pop songs that while anything but mainstream are easily absorbed. With a voice that is part Tracey Thorn, part Cerys Matthews (the opener, "I'm Happy" is pure Catatonia) and part Eddi Reader, Azita creates something like modern, indie torch songs that simmer -- as on "Come William" -- swing jauntily -- as on the title track -- and stomp -- as on "Lullaby." Azita has played keyboards with the likes of Silver Jews and Bonnie "Prince" Billy, so perhaps her fellow travelers will give you a clue to her milieu. But, who cares? The record is warm, breathy and melodic. Who needs more? --Bobby Tanzilo

A game of shuffleboard at Champion's Pub -- Inconspicuously located at 2417 N. Bartlett Ave., Champion's is the kind of place that inspires mixed feelings. The vibe is low-key, friendly and so much fun that you feel compelled to tell your friends about it. At the same time, though, you want to keep it from getting "too popular" and keep it as a secret hideaway. If you've never been inside, make it a point to do so and check out the refurbished shuffleboard table. It's a great way to keep the conversation -- and the good vibes -- flowing. --D.O.

Double punches at Stone Creek Coffee -- Who doesn't love the double coffee card punch? For my morning cup, I make it a point to stop at many different coffee providers throughout the week, but I must say that I'm influenced by the lure of the double punch. So, this month is great since all Stone Creek Coffee locations are giving two punches on your coffee card with every coffee or tea purchase. --J.S.

Chico Hamilton Trio's "Live @ Artpark" (Joyous Shout!) -- The latest from jazz drummer Hamilton -- recorded on his own label in 1994 -- is a quirky affair with electric guitar by Cary deNigris and electric bass Matthew Garrison. At times funky, at times almost indie rock-influenced and sometimes insufferably noodly, the eight tunes here challenge what we think of as jazz. "Ain't Nobody Calling Me" is part "Fat Albert" theme song and part fusion diddling; "A Little After Twelve" starts with a lovely, moody section. But regardless of what he's playing Hamilton is the star here and despite the fact that he obviously feeds off their energy, I find myself cursing the fact that there are sidemen at all. Hearing Hamilton's musical explorations and inventiveness on their own would be more satisfying. The same cannot be said for "Dreams Come True," a 1993 duet with late pianist Andrew Hill, also released on Joyous Shout. Hamilton and Hill speak the same language and the eight tunes make for just about the best hour of jazz this writer has heard in a long time. Because neither of these master musicians appeared inhibited in any way, this musical conversation is engaging, soulful, witty. Extremely recommended. --B.T.