Calling trumpeter, composer, producer and bandleader Micheal Leonhart a musical journeyman would be an understatement. Maybe genius is over used in this day and age, but Leonhart is closer to that term on the talent scale. If you only know Leonhart from his more than 25-year tenure with the Steely Dan band, then you are doing yourself a disservice. Leonhart touches on rock (2010’s Seahorse and the Storyteller), acoustic guitar-based jazz (2002’s Slow), and straight-ahead jazz (1995’s Aardvark Poses). The constant in every Leonhart project is his excellent gift of melody, and ability to draw the listener in. “Shut Him Down,” the album opener co-written with guest vocalist Elvis Costello, combines all Leonhart’s melodic gifts with Costello’s powerful and expressive baritone. Leonhart’s horn chart is sparkling and powerful, and frequent collaborator JSWISS provides a power rap to further move the song forward.

The Normyn Suites is dedicated to Leonhart’s dog who recently departed, and serves as a testament to connection and love. Michael Leonhart’s “The Normyn Suite #2 (Love and Loss)” was constructed during the dog’s final days and displayed a range of emotions and musical dynamics. Guitarist Bill Frissell is prominent on “Waking For Sedation,” and keyboardist Larry Goldings also lends his magic. These special guests never distracts or overwhelms Leonhart’s composition. He is a remarkable arranger and bandleader, melding heady pieces to create a cohesive and emotionally compelling album. These 17 songs are yet another example as to why Michael Leonhart is among the best jazz composers and arrangers today.