Combining jazzy improvisation, persistent electronic-inspired beats and dramatic harmonic patterns akin to a film soundtrack, ‘Stranger Searching’ is a journey through addictive musical landscapes. Rōnin Arkestra has pulled out all the stops with this one, as its hard to pinpoint whether the highlights of the piece come in the form of subtle, meandering trumpet motifs, or the return to the catchy, soulful main theme that increases in density and passion each time it comes back. Hopefully, this Tokyo-based band will rise to join the likes of Snarky Puppy in the jazz fusion scene. -Dan Peeke