is back -- 37 years past his breakthrough solo project, -- with his follow-up to the fine 2006 album . Though the title does signify influences and peers ( and specifically) has enjoyed, is also somewhere in between. Playing the drum kit and lots of marimba and vibraphone -- at times overdubbed -- offers Afrocentric polyrhythms with Latin underpinnings, and loads of hard-swinging jazz. is also feted on his great composition bright as the sun in Latin, off-minor tenor sax from and swift bop. With the mysterious a full decade of from his latter period of work is represented in more subtle tones. sings faithfully in the stoic, pointed style of during the politically charged and the pensive while is also recognized during the fleet, staccato-accented version of is his usual reliable and occasionally brilliant self, with pianist right there every step of the way. The mallet work of has been downplayed for decades, but here emphasizes what a complete musician and especially unique arranger he is, not just a drummer or timekeeper. also deserves credit and high praise as a support drummer and primary percussionist. Though you have to wait until the last track, to hear as a composer, it's well worth it in a cooking modal form via bassist , which identifies the bandleader's personal style. With complete vision of sound and sensory perception in an African-American perspective, hits several grand slam home runs on this vital and exciting album that comes highly recommended. ~ Michael G. Nastos