David Larsen’s Cohesion is a compelling exploration of hard bop, uniting East and West Coast jazz sensibilities. The baritone saxophonist leads a quintet featuring Darryl Yokley on tenor saxophone, Zaccai Curtis on piano, Alex Apollo on bass, and Wayne Smith Jr. on drums. The album comprises original compositions by Larsen and Yokley, showcasing intricate harmonies and robust improvisations. The interplay between Larsen’s baritone and Yokley’s tenor creates a rich tonal palette, while the rhythm section provides a solid foundation, resulting in a dynamic and cohesive collection that pays homage to jazz traditions while embracing contemporary influences.