Fans of Daphne Lee Martin, one of the most respected singer-songwriters in New London and across the region, have been consistently enthralled, amazed — and occasionally puzzled — by her restless Muse. Indeed, her intelligent curiosity about a variety of musical styles — from torch jazz and Americana to Cajun and honky tonk — has resulted in a wide-reaching discography.

With her latest, though, titled "Scared Fearless," longtime listeners might speculate that Martin has, through her musical experiments as well as the hard-carved experiences of Life Itself, found her true niche. "Scared Fearless" is, to these ears, anyway, a collection of wonderful, wistful and occasionally sad songs — sophisticated pop meditations that are meticulously sculpted and supported by an empathetic ensemble of gifted musical pals. Sure, there are touches of her past work — it's all in her DNA, after all — but this is a really distinctive, assured and confidently presented album.

"Scared Fearless" is the best record Martin has made – and it's going to be a pleasure to hear her introduce the work today when she returns to The Day's "Live Lunch Break." Her performance kicks off a day-into-night set of performances in New London's Telegraph Records Shop.

And Martin and her amazing band will formally introduce "Scared Fearless" with a release party Saturday in New London at the Social. To help with the fun, Martin's show will be sandwiched between support sets from Amy Kucharik and The Huntress and Holder of Hands.

Daphne Lee Martin, "Live Lunch Break," noon today, Telegraph Records, 19 Golden St., New London; free; theday.com/livelunch.

"Scared Fearless" release party, 8 p.m. Saturday, The Social, 208 Bank St., New London; $8, CDs available for purchase; (860) 442-6900