Saxophonist Rob Wagner’s third trio disc maintains continuity with his first two albums while forging ahead into fresh turf. As before, the sole constant (save Wagner) is esteemed bassist James Singleton, here heard with the effects setup he has used on recent gigs. His electronics expand the sonic palette and enhance Wagner’s compositions while avoiding novel gimmickry. Occasionally Singleton will sample and loop a bass line so he can bow a solo over it, then punctuate the solo with fuzzy overdrive or cavernous reverb that cuts through the mix.

Wagner here maintains his Spinal Tap-like propensity for changing drummers. Practical reasons initiated each replacement, but it has resulted in a thematic motif that makes each session a distinct and compelling volume, and Lost Children might be the best yet. Kevin O’Day’s boisterous enthusiasm gave way to James Alsanders’ Blakey-esque swagger, while Lost Children brings us to Ocie Davis’ brisk clarity, recalling prime early Tony Williams (particularly his rippling ride cymbal) on this disc. Wagner’s compositions are logical and varied, but with a more focused and turbulent emotional core on this outing. They provide a great setting for his playing, whether he’s hurling a dense torrent of notes on alto, knitting Steve Lacy-esque pinpoint phrases on soprano, or plumbing the full range of his tenor sax.