The saxophonist-composer David Binney's seventh release for the Dutch-based recorded-in-Brooklyn label Criss Cross, Anacapa, sounds like it could be the missing link between Frank Zappa and the contemporary left-field New York jazz scene. If you've got to know something of his prolific yet consistently strong recordings as leader over the past two decades, you will soon hear the unmistakable signature sound of rhythmically infectious, sweet ‘n’ sour melodies in Binney's compositions and arrangements on Anacapa. The album is framed by two tracks that show his interest in exploring certain aspects of electronica. He adds sax to ‘She Loves, Introduction’ that sounds Giorgio Moroder-ish and to ‘She Hates, Outro’ that echoes Mike Oldfield – note that Binney isn't afraid of revealing unfashionable tastes so long as he can find a good vehicle for it. What's more, he always utilises popular culture references such as singer-songwriter, alt rock-pop and funk in a way that focuses rather than dilutes his improvising sensibility. His recordings always attract big names and this is a line up from his regular, close-knit pool of musicians, including sometime guest heavyweight left-field jazz-rock guitarist Wayne Krantz, who fits in perfectly here, and a more recent recruit, the English expat pianist John Escreet. With Anacapa Binney has made one of his strongest and most instantly soulful recordings to date.