WHAT’S ON: Georgian Jazz Festival: Paul Edis Sextet Saturday, Richmond Jam Sunday, Theatre Royal, Richmond, 01748-825252.

CD REVIEWS

Stefano Bollani/Joy in Spite of Everything (ECM 378 4459)

All the pianist’s records have been enjoyable, but this new one moves up to another level. Accompanied again by the ultra-sensitive rhythm team of Jesper Bodilsen and Morton Lund, he’s also joined by tenor player Mark Turner and guitarist Bill Frisell in various combinations. Sensitive, imaginative and immediately appealing, this is an outstanding record. ecmrecords.com

J.C. Sanford Orchestra/Views from the Inside (Whirlwind WR4652)

It’s taken me longer to appreciate this album but it’s been worth it. The 15-piece Brooklyn-based ensemble switches musical forms so comfortably and naturally and its unusual instrumentation provides an amazing variety of colours and moods. I heard hints of Gil Evans here and there but taken much further. whirlwindrecordings.com.

British Traditional Jazz/At a Tangent, Volume 6 (Lake LACD335)

Lake’s long running review of traditional jazz as it developed in the 1950s and 1960s continues with this focus on Classic Style bands. Paul Adams’ persuasive notes set the scene for seven bands including Colin Kingwell’s Jazz Band and the Original Down Town Syncopators. Best known are Steve Lane and his Famous Southern Stompers and Mike Daniels and his Delta Jazzmen whose rare acetates include pianist Fred Hunt. fellside.com