ON THIS third album for Manfred Eicher’s jazz label, British saxophonist Andy Sheppard has added Norwegian guitarist Eivind Aarset to his acclaimed Trio Libero of bassist Michel Benita and drummer Sebastian Rochford, both superstars in their own right.

The result’s a beautifully restrained and atmospheric set, the kind of contemporary, contemplative instrumental jazz that will appeal to Eicher fans.

Over subtle soundscapes, Sheppard’s sax moves from the eerie, thin notes of trumpeter Arve Henriksen to wandering lines reminiscent of the saxophone playing of fellow west countryman John Surman.

There’s a cover of Elvis Costello’s I Want To Vanish and a three-part version of a traditional Gaelic song before the album closes with a tribute to free jazz innovator Ornette Coleman.

Quiet and sparse with a mysterious ambience, Surrounded by Sea is another strong record from Sheppard.