It's debatable whether the world was crying out for for a revival in Polish jazz music but no matter, because one has arrived anyway. Moreover, the fact that Ninja Tune - one of the most cutting edge of electronic/dance labels - have decided to release the debut recording from Skalpel suggests that it's a sub-genre woth investigating. The sound is heavily informed by the 50s jazz scene in Poland but is brought bang up to date by a modern production and a canny use of sampling techniques. It's also equipped with a sense of fun too, not least on recent single '1958' and 'Not Too Bad'. And when it's not fun it is deeply evocative of spy thrillers and the kind of film noir soundscapes that Barry Adamson would nod approvingly at. Yet the outstanding moment is saved for the 'Sculpture' finale, a subtle swinging sensation with a huge melodic heart. Recommended for lovers of the double bass.