“Universal Syncopations II” by Czech bassist/composer Miroslav Vitous explores a wider range of options than its best-selling predecessor (released 2003), as choirs loom out of the mix and orchestral colours swirl around a shifting cast of modern jazz players which includes Randy Brecker on trumpet and Bob Mintzer, Bob Malach and Gary Campbell on saxophones. Miroslav’s uniquely expressive double-bass drives the music forward and has a central role to play in the ensemble interaction.