Extraordinary sounds from Michael Mayo on Bones (out now on Mack Avenue) it's clear. There are elements of lots of people but his approach is more than the sum of its many parts. Mayo certainly has the skill of a Sachal Vasandani and the flair and mastery of a Kurt Elling. In terms of sheer vocal acrobatics yes there is a little of Bobby McFerrin in his approach and fans of Jacob Collier will find something of interest in the singer's debut especially in the polyphonic spree of the production and the singer's sprawling capturing of vocal adventure.

The improvising at the heart of his sound when Mayo breaks free from strict melody makes him stand out so much. From Los Angeles, Mayo attended the New England Conservatory of Music and become only the third vocalist accepted by the Thelonious Monk Institute where he was mentored by Herbie Hancock and with whom he later toured. The only difficult task is to select just one track from a groundbreaking album. But for sheer life force and exuberance it's got to be his original song and arrangement, 'Stolen Moments.' Michael Mayo, top. Photo: Shervin Lainez