Rebecca Nash's suite Redefining Element 78 was originally commissioned for the Bristol Jazz and Blues Festival in tribute to scientist and jazz lover Ian Thorn. Inspired by saxophonist John O'Gallagher's tone-row theories of 12-tone improvisation the pianist used the combination of mathematics, science and music as the basis of compositions derived from the atomic numbers of various chemical elements.

Far from a dry exercise in musical structure, however, the result is a deeply satisfying and diverse series of pieces combining a strong melodic integrity with fine solo performances. There is a loose thematic consistency heralded by the opening track ‘Platinum I’ - platinum being element 78 – and while Nash's compositional voice gives a unifying clarity to the whole suite her choice of side players (including O’Gallagher himself) ensures that the music is not overly constrained by that.

Trumpeter Nick Malcolm's soaring solo fluency is a notable contribution, as is the nicely judged guitar of Jamie Leeming who gets a fine McLaughlin-esque wigout on ‘Rhodium’. It's a richly cross-rhythmic number propelled by Matt Fisher's snapping percussive invention and Paul Michael's bass that eventually allows O’Gallagher the space for a triumphal virtuoso display. Nash's piano, spacious and elegant throughout, dives deep into the tone-row method for ‘Platinum II’, her solo introduction owing as much to classical influences as jazz while her gently prodding chords urge on the ensemble to the tune's close. It all adds up to a rich musical mix that definitely rewards repeated listening.