One thing is quite certain. As a bandleader and composer, it would be difficult to put bassist Ben Fox into any musical box. His recent albums included Ben’s Bop, which as the title indicates, is be-boppin’ all the way and includes standards from the likes of Art Blakey. Next up was Wrong Impressions that explored New Orleans-style traditional jazz with all selections coming from Fox’s pen. Each of these releases featured different local musicians as does the leader’s latest, The Pavanist. Conceptually and with the inclusion of an electric keyboard, Fox and company take a more open, free-flowing approach to jazz music with, again, the bassist composing all of the selections.

It opens simply on “Floral Wallpaper” with the drums of Peter Varnado soon joined by keyboardist Seth Finch and the saxophone of Sam Taylor. The tune begins with an exotic flavor, but chameleon-like, changes its “colors.” Fox takes a rare solo here, displaying his skills and the fine sound qualities of his bass.

The album moves from the light, toe-tapping “Leaf Theory” to the funk of “My Kit.” Dig the fast pace of “New Eyes” and Gladney’s screamin’ sax solo. The acoustic piano work of Chris Coreil sets “The Russian Dilemma” stylistically apart from the rest of the album, making for an appreciated tonal change.

The Pavanist stands as another solid release by the prolific and diverse Ben Fox. Although it’s filled with unfamiliar material, it conquers by engagement. One does have to wonder what the sly Fox will come up with next.