Rivers In Our Veins.

The article reviews several contemporary jazz albums, focusing on their distinctive artistic approaches and contributions. Steve Lehman's *Ex Machina* features the French Orchestre National de Jazz under Frederic Maurin, blending complex rhythms and electronic textures to explore tensions between humanity and technology. Vibraphonist Chien Chien Lu's *Built in System* presents original compositions reflecting themes of migration and cultural roots, supported by a cohesive ensemble including mentor Jeremy Pelt. Drummer Myele Manzanza's *Crisis & Opportunity Vol. 4 – Meditations* offers a reflective acoustic trio recording emphasizing unity and intricate time signatures. Allison Miller's *Rivers In Our Veins* draws inspiration from East Coast rivers and conservation efforts, combining folk, post-bop, and gospel influences with diverse instrumentation. Additionally, Ed Motta's *Behind the Tea Chronicles* synthesizes jazz, rock, and soul with lush orchestration, evoking cinematic soundscapes reminiscent of Steely Dan.