WHAT’S ON: Friday, Virtuoso Jazz Trio, St. Cuthbert’s Centre, Crook, 01388- 768880; Saturday (12.30), Brownfield/ Byrne Hot Six, St. Augustine’s Centre, Darlington.

CD REVIEWS: Mitch Shiner & the BloomingTones Big Band/Fly! (Patois PRCD016) This is a striking debut by the young drummer, vibes player, composer and arranger leading a 16-piece band, mostly fellow graduates of Indiana University’s jazz programme.

They bring a fresh look to a traditional format. patoisrecords.com

The Puppeteers (Puppet’s Records) This energetic, bubbling quartet came together via Brooklyn jazz club Puppet’s Jazz. It comprises club founder and drummer Jaime Affoumado, vibes player Bill Ware, bass player Alex Lake and pianist Arturo O’Farrill, all very experienced players who gel perfectly together. puppetsrecords.com

Felipe Salles/Ugandan Suite (Tapestry 76023-2) Brazilian saxophonist and jazz lecturer Felipe Salles wrote and produced these jazz portrayals of Ugandan wild life following a visit there in 2011. It incorporates a wide range of influences including Ugandan rhythms and percussion instruments but retains a strong jazz pulse, especially with fellow saxophonist David Liebman. caprirecords.com Danny Fox Trio/Wide Eyed (Hot Cup 133) Pianist and composer Danny Fox, bassist Chris van Voorst van Beest and drummer Max Goldman have spent many hours rehearsing and playing together as a trio. Their music is complex, absorbing many different influences and as such reveals itself slowly. dannyfoxmusic.com