So. What we have here is a British musician who poses on his album cover in a leather jacket and a Budweiser t-shirt. Never mind that he plays some of the finest hard bop saxophone (for starters) I've heard in a long time. Never mind that his band has a keen sense of when to wander and when to lock in. Never mind . . . that the man is wearing a Bud shirt!

Binker Golding Abstractions of Reality Past and Incredible Feathers (Gearbox)

The names that come up almost reflexively in his press are Coltrane and Rollins. Well, hell. Really? Yes. For a more modern take, I'd go with Branford Marsalis. Golding's tone is a bit edgier, but he has the same polymathic approach to music. These pieces are thrill rides, full of kinetic adventure and melodic joy. Golding is anything but smooth, though, and he's often pushing the limits of one idea or another.

For someone who approaches titles like Fiona Apple, Golding has found a very traditional production sound. Indeed, the warm, full and rounded feel he achieves gives is lovely. No matter how many times he wanders, the sound brings us home.

An intimate set. These pieces irresistibly draw in the listener. And they don't let go. Golding charms and challenges in equal measure. Quite a set.

Jon Worley