Joe Lovano is well known from previous visits, though anyone expecting the US saxophonist's polished post-bop witnessed a new direction.

His edgy tenor was augmented by Billy Drews on soprano, which gave the quartet a Steve Lacy-ish feel.

Drews also used a set of random percussion to add to the freedom.

He also took over the kit from regular drummer Billy Reis, who stepped forward to play trumpet on several occasions.

At that point, Lovano moved onto the stritch, a straight alto sax.

The band was now clearly in exhilarating Ornette Coleman territory, with Reis taking Don Cherry's role.

More switching found Lovano on drumkit for one piece - a high point was a trio for soprano, stritch and trumpet.

This performance was a rollercoaster ride for all concerned, with only excellent bassist Cameron Brown staying firmly put behind his instrument.

Gardner Arts Centre, University Of Sussex, Falmer, Brighton, Saturday