Many performers stick with a successful formula throughout their careers. Bolder artists tend to be works in progress, and Lynne Arriale belongs in that category. Slim and intense, this lyrical US pianist has grown as an artist and bandleader during her seven years on the circuit.

Originally inspired by the great Bill Evans (briefly heard recently in an excellent TV tribute to Tony Bennett) she now covers a wider piano world. Unveiling a new album, Nuance, and a new rhythm section, featuring dynamic young drummer Anthony Pinciotti and French double-bassist Thomas Bramerie, she achieved several mood-swings in a dashing set.

Driftin’, a jaunty 32-bar theme from Herbie Hancock’s early Blue Note days, was funky and relaxed. A spiky Thelonious Monk standard, I Mean You, was taken out of tempo and back into swing.

Then came a dreamlike version of I Hear A Rhapsody, the melody so well disguised that it seeped out almost by osmosis.

Crawfish Gumbo was spicier, her snappy right-hand lines recalling pushy improvisers like David Kikoski. “Here’s our version of Night in Tunisia,” she said finally, giving Dizzy Gillespie’s classic some extra‑curricular chord changes not inappropriate to the originals. That’s an art in itself.

Until tomorrow. Information: 020 7439 0747.