In the Moment

This innovative Chicago drummer latches onto a strong concept, compiling a year's worth of full-band improv sessions and editing them into lean, potent forms. Consequently, tracks tend to jump right into the groove and run short. Funk and hip-hop's rhythms abound, like the loose shuffle of "The Drop," but so do soul-jazz textures and occasional hints of post-rock, when Tortoise guitarist Jeff Parker guests (see “On the Spot"). As a composer, McCraven has a way with the steady build: During “The Jaunt,” check out the momentum he builds with bass, vibes, guitar, and saxophone.