Phil Meadows’ last project was an ambitious collaboration with the Engines Orchestra: this new release, his first since 2014, brings things back down to the quartet format, but the scope of Meadows’ compositional ambition remains unchanged, and there’s plenty of fine detail to enjoy in this nicely balanced set. On ‘More Minutes’ and ‘Trashlantis’ Meadows’ full-toned soprano sax dances agilely across light, airy soundscapes sculpted by guitarist Michell De Souza’s precise, clipped chords and arpeggios, while producer Mikko Gordon, who has also worked with Thom Yorke and Matthew Herbert, joins with Meadows and electronic artist Nick Tyson to create layers of tasteful electro ambience. Meadows’ tone on alto is throatier and more assertive, providing a stimulating contrast on the jaunty ‘The Journey’, with Jay Davies’ crisp, carefully paced drumming and versatile bassist Joe Downard’s hip minimalist lines both contributing to the accessible pop flavour.

Amidst the general breeziness, however, there are surprises in store: ‘Freedom Of Speech’ is a collage of found sound stitched together to create an unsettling portrayal of ceaseless digital chatter: ‘Beware Of The Bear’ ups the stakes to provide De Souza with an opportunity to unleash some fusion chops as the rhythm section turns up the heat, and ‘The Don’ adds layers of electronica to a slinky groove that builds into a powerful crescendo, driven by Downard’s compelling basslines. There’s an attractively unshowy poise to this well balanced band that makes this a highly engaging listen.