One of the early progenitors of what would come to be known as smooth jazz, pianist originally made his name in the '70s and '80s with his electric jazz outfit . As the name implies, initially took inspiration from such genre-bending icons as , , and the '70s electrified sound of , albeit with an ear to pushing his fusion and funk-influenced sound in a much more mainstream direction. His fifth outing since reactivating the ensemble with 2010's , 2017's is a slick -- if still soulful -- production that finds digging into a set of upbeat funk- and pop-inflected jams with just enough hardcore jazz flourishes to keep things from getting too predictable. Headlining this time out are longtime associate bassist (who co-produced the album with ) and in-demand studio saxophonist , whose abundant album credits have found him playing everything from jazz to gospel to emo-pop. Augmenting these sessions at various times are such recognizable stalwarts as drummer , guitarist , bassist , and others. Also, as on several past dates, saxophonist supplies his tastefully punchy horn arrangements. Generally speaking, most of the tracks on have less in common with classic '70s fusion jazz and fall more easily into the contemporary crossover jazz idiom. Cuts like the leadoff "Hyperdrive," the R&B-infused "What's the Deal," and the EDM-inflected "Gucci" are sophisticated midtempo grooves built around 's juicy organ, synth, and piano parts and accented by 's organic, emotive sax lines. That said, has always straddled the line between crafting mood-oriented jams and engaging, improvisation-friendly arrangements, and only works to reinforce that notion. Along those lines, "Vienna" and "Park West" bring to mind the edgy, bop-informed style of '80s . Similarly compelling are the bluesy, funky title track and the sultry "Hidden Agenda," both of which allow for subtle harmonic colorations and swinging improvisational asides. Ultimately on doesn't attempt to break the smooth jazz mold so much as represent the best of breed. Thankfully, he remains one of the first and best at what he does. ~ Matt Collar