One of the challenges confronting the modern mega-player is how to deploy their awesome musical accomplishments in a way that connects with a broad range of listeners.

One solution, presented here, is to reach back into the ‘Songbook’ repertoire: we are reminded that Avishai’s roots are still firmly in the kind of jazz that Ellington would have recognised, when everything was still in 4/4. When he duets with Yuval Drabkin’s ravishing sax on ‘Polka Dots And Moonbeams’ the results are bewitching; a vocal version of ‘Summertime’ in a sort of ska-influenced 5/4 is slightly more bewildering.

The other tracks are carefully-crafted originals, presenting an updated but still accessible approach to the classic acoustic trio and quartet, with additional mellow horns and guitar giving a West Coast feel. The pianists and drummers excel in nearly-straight-ahead blowing tunes like ‘Roni’s Swing’, while short, gnomically titled compositions like ‘Hope’ and ‘Humility’ showcase a sort of muscular chamber-jazz, with more intricate construction, and pastel shades from the extended ensemble.

There’s a piece from the classical repertoire as well - Liszt, naturally. The execution from these outstanding players is flawless and the determination to remain approachable will delight some listeners but may disappoint fans of Cohen’s edgier back catalogue.