LLOYD Hyperion With Higgins (2012)

Culled from the same sessions as last year's The Water Is Wide, this compelling CD is dedicated to the late Billy Higgins, whose subtle, vitalizing drumming all but steals the show from the saxophonist leader, pianist Brad Mehl-dau, and guitarist John Abercrombie. More assertive if less affecting than the contemplative Water, Hyperion catches everyone in animated form, updating and enhancing the trademark modal jazz sound that Lloyd has nurtured since the '60s.