First an explanation of the name of the New Orleans-based band, Basher, and the title of the album, Doubles. Saxophonist Byron Asher acquired the nickname Basher when he was in high school, and it stuck. It now becomes the name of the ensemble of which he is the major player. Doubles refers to the group’s somewhat unusual instrumentation with two saxophonists, Asher on tenor and Aurora Nealand on alto and two drummers namely Brad Webb and Zach Rhea. Also onboard with the bass-less band is Daniel Meinecke on synthesizers.

The double teams work it hard on tunes like “Primetime A Go-Go,” a totally accessible, melodically appealing selection that could get a crowd going with its enthusiasm. Asher and Nealand blow intuitively together and accent one another as they each head in their own direction.

There’s something very amusing about “Claptrap Clapback,” another danceable cut. The happiness begins with Meinecke’s light-hearted opening that is continued throughout.

The beauty of the ballad “Ponchatoula,” on Basher, Doubles, which primarily features Asher’s tenor, offers not simply a change of pace but a further insight into the players’ range and the essential humanity required in all music.

Opening the album and scattered about are what could be considered interludes that reflect the band’s interest in free jazz. The pieces are short, though shouldn’t be overlooked if one desires to understand the big picture of who Basher is.

With its many personalities, Doubles, which concludes on what those in New Orleans might describe as a dirge, conjures up many wonderfully intriguing images and ever-changing moods.