The familiar sail-like backcloth was present and correct but there’s much more of a breeze blowing through the music in its foreground these days compared to the

experience of hearing the Jan Garbarek Group live a few years ago. As the Norwegian saxophonist’s recent live album, Dresden, indicated, Garbarek has been refreshed, adding a buoyancy to the always beautiful sound of his tenor and soprano playing.

This isn’t a matter of playing more notes: Garbarek always preferring a more considered approach. It feels like he has more to say and a more engaging way of saying it.

Much of this may reflect the change at his group’s heart. Retaining pianist, keyboards player and long-serving safe pair of hands Rainer Brunninghaus, Garbarek has introduced Brazilian Yuri Daniel, on five-string fretless bass guitar, whose playing brings a dancing lightness as well as a steely strength to the group dynamic. For this year at least, he’s brought in Trilok Gurtu, whose combination of tabla sorcery, idiosyncratic kit drumming and percussive colouration complement Garbarek’s current form perfectly.

One of many memorable moments, among pieces variously austere and atmospheric and bum-jiggingly groovy, was an exchange between Gurtu, a man who creates the most iconic use of a bucket this side of Oor Wullie, and Garbarek, who had forsaken his saxophones for a shepherd’s flute. The resulting teasing and challenges issued – and just about met – typified the vibe of a concert that was of generous length but passed quickly.

Sponsored by Scottish Power.

Star rating: ****