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He is best remembered as the composer of the standard "Misty." But he also remains one of the greatest improvisers ever, a self-taught pianist whose unique approaches to melody, harmony and rhythm made him a star.

Matthew Dear's "Deserter" sounds like a gem plucked from a compilation of early-'80s European synth-pop. His emotionless voice serves Dear's chilly new-wave perfectly, just as the song serves as an ideal introduction to his new album's icy pop excellence.

On Fast Computers' "Sweden Hasn't Changed, You Have," a minimal, pinball-like loop explodes into a swirl of carnival-esque synth washes evocative of Low-era Bowie. The melody is powerful, haunting and stark, but it also seems organic and natural.

The Bell's wiry guitar-rock recalls many of the bands that came up in the wake of, or were contemporaries to, Echo and the Bunnymen. The group's debut CD, Make Some Quiet, draws on these influences, while also recalling the post-punk pop of Interpol.

Born in the Dominican Republic and raised in New York, the pianist has earned a reputation as a ferocious jazz player — and lately, as a classical stylist, too. Camilo performs originals, classics and selections from across the Afro-Latin tradition.

Two years ago, jazz guitarist Bill Frisell and drummer Matt Chamberlain spent a few days free-associating in the recording studio. Their extemporaneous jams were then sampled, cut up and mixed together to create an unusual album project called Floratone.

Pianist Gabriela Montero fields songs sung over the telephone and creates her own improvisations around them. This week, hard work on a sailing team inspired a listener to sing the song "The Weight" by The Band.

Ann Hampton Callaway is a multi-talented artist who defies labels. She is equally at home on stage as she is in the worlds of jazz, pop and cabaret. Callaway's award-winning compositions are as impressive as her three-octave vocal range. Hear and interview and performance.

The Monterey Jazz Festival celebrates 50 years of great music this weekend. Musician David Was reflects on the festival and reviews a new set of archival Monterey CDs featuring Thelonious Monk, Miles Davis and Dizzy Gillespie.

Fresh Air's music critic Milo Miles considers the work of the art-punk band Sonic Youth; the group's 1988 album Daydream Nation has just been reissued in a deluxe double-CD edition.