This week, we bring you an exclusive session from a pianist who has been at the cutting edge of the British jazz scene for a quarter of a century, but who has rarely sought its spotlight – John Law.

The set that he and his trio recorded for us reflects the latest step in a musical career that has been something of an odyssey. And Law’s classical upbringing in particular still has a big part to play, as you’ll hear from his pre-session interview with John Fordham, who stands in for Jez this week. The gently insistent lyricism of the opener shows off the highly attuned, stripped-back chamber-music approach that the trio has developed through 5 years playing together.

John Law at Livingston Studios

But this set also points in a new direction – there’s a grooviness and an edge to the second tune, Triadic Ballet, from its dark, buzzing opening to the suppressed Latin feel that later emerges. And to close, there’s a deliberate nod to Swedish trio EST in which Law, along with bassist Yuri Goloubev and drummer Asaf Sirkis, start with their signature deftness of touch before a heavier romp to finish.

Finally on the programme, we pay tribute to British composer, bandleader and educator Graham Collier, who died recently.

The Jazz on 3 team