Donald Harrison enjoys jumping from straight-ahead jazz to Latin jazz to rap to Mardi Gras Indians—you name it. The primary home for the saxophonist’s output for the brand of jazz he has dubbed “nouveau swing” has been the German-based Nagel Heyer label, and the approach is most noted for its irresistible groove matched by Harrison’s educated and far-reaching jazz sensibilities. It’s kind of a two-for-one concept, especially appealing to dance-loving jazz fans. Longtime Harrison associate, drummer John Lamkin is right in the pocket on the opening title cut, “The Survivor,” which, according to the altoist, refers not only to his surviving Katrina but also the sometimes-fickle jazz world. His fiery horn rages atop the solid backbeat, while Mulgrew Miller’s piano engages it rhythmically and melodically. Occasionally, Harrison sings a bit in the background, encouraging the funk as on “Twerk It.”

His nephew, the very up-and-coming, 22-year-old trumpeter Christian Scott offers some melodic magic with his well-rounded tone. Also in the talented twentysomething division are the Curtis brothers, bassist Luques and pianist Zaccai with the latter taking over for Miller on one cut. Harrison and Scott mingle their instruments on a hard-hitting number from Harrison’s pen, “The Hook-Up” as well as the change of pace entry, “Summertime.” It’s one of three non-originals along with “Oriental Folk Song” and an electrified, scratchin’ version of the standard “Caravan.” The liner notes referring to this tune ask, “Who is the funky drummer?” hinting that it is Harrison behind the trap set. This piano-less, bass-less, one-man-band, rendition of the tune is a pretty quirky way to end the album and might drive some folks who dig the rest of this fine disc a little nuts.