Drummer, composer and producer Bob Holz brings together some of jazz fusion’s biggest names on Next In Line. The ten-track collection gathers newly remastered highlights from Holz’s eight previous albums, with appearances by John McLaughlin, Jean-Luc Ponty, Stanley Clarke, Randy Brecker, Mike Stern, Larry Coryell, Darryl Jones and more.

Next In Line makes a strong case for the company Holz has kept throughout his recording career. Opener “Jammin Man” mixes reggae and fusion with a fiery bass solo from Stanley Clarke, while “Shooting Range” brings Larry Coryell, Randy Brecker and keyboardist Steve Weingart together for a round of trading solos.

One of the collection’s major highlights is “World Turned Upside Down,” a mini Mahavishnu Orchestra reunion featuring John McLaughlin, Jean-Luc Ponty and Ralphe Armstrong. Meanwhile, “Larry’s Blues” pays tribute to Holz’s late friend and collaborator Larry Coryell, with Mike Stern delivering the song’s expressive guitar work.

The players keep coming. “Better Try” features Rolling Stones bassist Darryl Jones alongside saxophonist Brandon Fields, taking Holz into a smoother jazz groove, while his own composition “Flat Out” features Randy Brecker on trumpet. Former Weather Report percussionist Alex Acuña also appears on the collection.

“The Tunnel” spotlights the late guitarist Dean Brown, and Next In Line circles back to the beginning for its finale with “Moving Eyes,” originally heard on Holz’s debut album, A Vision Forward, and featuring Mike Stern on guitar.

Holz’s career took a major turn when he began playing and recording with jazz fusion legend Larry Coryell from 2015 through 2017. Since then, his list of collaborators has grown to include some of jazz fusion's most familiar names.

Through it all, Holz’s drumming remains the common thread. His combination of dynamics, groove, finesse and remarkable technique drives these recordings, while his work as a composer gives the musicians plenty of room to stretch out. Next In Line offers a concentrated look at the music Bob Holz has created with an extraordinary group of players over the course of eight albums.