Alto saxist/composer David Bixler keeps his heart in the post-bop jazz side of things here, leading a pianoless quintet with John Hart/g, Scott Wendholdt/tp, Ugonna Okegwo/b and Andy Watson/dr. There is a healthy mix of arranged melodies and interplay and group improvisation, as displayed on “Perfected Surfaces.” The team can set a nice groove down as well cruising through the title track like the Pony Express, and Bixler’s hefty alto providing some nice moments as well. Some contemplative moments arise on the chamber styled “The Darkness…” spotlighting some of Hart’s dexterity on the strings. Impressive release that keeps in the traditional root while grown a few extra leaves.