WHAT’S ON: Friday, Martin Taylor, NCEM, York, 01904- 658338; Sunday, Alex Baker Quartet, Forum Music Centre, Darlington, 01325-363135.

CD REVIEWS: Tommy Smith & Brian Kellock/Whispering of the Stars (Spartacus STS019) Their two previous albums have already shown off the musical rapport between Tommy’s gentler tenor sax and Brian’s pellucid piano, but they reach new heights of delicacy on this selection of ballads. From Stardust to Moonlight Serenade and from Michel Legrand to Duke Ellington it’s a joy all the way through. spartacusrecords.com.

Christine Tobin/A Thousand Kisses Deep Award-winning singer and composer Christine Tobin has reworked 11 Leonard Cohen songs on this new album. Her clear, tuneful voice and her obvious empathy for some mysterious, but mostly romantic, songs make for fascinating listening, all enhanced by perfect accompaniment from Phil Robson, Dave Whitford, Huw Warren and, on one track, Gwilym Simcock. christinetobin.com.

Julian Arguelles/Circularity (CAM JAZZ CAMJ7872-2) For his first CamJazz album as leader, the saxophonist (tenor and soprano) reunites with pianist John Taylor and drummer Martin France, both on his first CD. This time the bass player is Dave Holland who fits in just perfectly.

Julian’s eight compositions are explored very thoroughly by all four players. The focus may shift from one to another but it’s very much a group effort. camjazz.com