(Mandala Records)

Pianist Stephen McQuarry leads his trio in a beautiful work of musical synchronicity. Azure is a cross-section of soothing ballads and upswinging tunes, all written by McQuarry. The chemistry of the trio is that of a group of musicians who are familiar with each other and like playing together. The lineup includes Ted Burik on bass and Greg German on drums. Both as a musician and a composer, McQuarry has a musical voice that is pleasing to the ear and soul. This is a fantastic recording.