ArtScience

Jazz pianist Robert Glasper and his fusion ensemble make an independent move on ArtScience. After guesting with Snoop Dogg and Brandy and covering Nirvana, Glasper and company wrote, performed and produced all the tunes here. The opening “This Is Not Fear” blasts out blitzing post-bop improv before settling into a funk groove, showing the band’s mastery of multiple jazz styles. Saxophonist/vocalist Casey Benjamin shines throughout, whether in laid-back R&B environments (“Thinkin Bout You”) or on disco-influenced tracks like “Day to Day”.