A simultaneous release of the 20-something Danish pianist Rasmus Sørensen’s debut Traits – originally issued as digital download exclusively in Denmark in 2022 – and a brand new recording, Balancing Act.

The different line-ups reflect the pianist’s geographic whereabouts at the time of recording although more significance and interest lies in the evolution of Sørensen as a pianist, composer and improviser. Having graduated from a Manhattan School of Music scholarship after moving to New York in 2018, Sørensen assembles a tougher New York-based line-up for Balancing Act, including the influential drummer-composer Kendrick Scott.

On his debut Sørensen, alongside long-time partners of Paris-based Italian drummer Francesco Ciniglio and Stockholm-based upright bassist Jon Henriksson, sounds like an old soul, with his breezily attractive mainstream Bill Evans-influenced lyricism. He draws on a set of cheery originals drawing from both the American and European acoustic jazz heritages. The Denmark-based trio play with empathy, the mood being mostly lyrically sunny or yearningly melancholic.

But it’s noticeable listening to the newer recording that he’s yet to cut his teeth. On Balancing Act Sørenson showcases major refinements as an interpreter as well as composer. On Coltrane’s lesser-known ‘Mr Day’ the pianist builds up a head of steam without revealing much of a spiritual connection with the original, while the take on pianist Duke Pearson’s ‘Is That So?’ is more suited to the trio’s effortlessly cool swing. Balancing Act is still temperament-wise like Traits, but solos are more airy, considered, and possesses all the elements that a well-drilled New York jazz apprenticeship can bring. Being by a relative newcomer, the recording also doesn’t overstay its welcome, being about half the length of Traits.

A promising new piano voice then, with Balancing Act being the most enjoyable as well as accomplished of the pair of new releases.