Alto saxophonist Steve Coleman retains core members of his band Five Elements while changing the ensemble texture to include clarinet, violin, piano, acoustic bass, and percussion—but no drum set. The effect is radical and engrossing. The music unfolds with unsurpassed sonic clarity and thematic intrigue. Even without drums, it has Coleman’s distinctive and funky rhythmic fingerprint, but also a heightened lyrical quality. His blend of dense written material and flowing improvisation has never sounded more natural and compelling.