Evan Parker (left) – our very own world renowned circular breathing improv sax master – has been one of the most popular draws at Dalston’s Vortex jazz club in London appearing monthly with a regular trio. To celebrate his ongoing relationship, the saxophone avatar, who is a highly regarded jazz star on the continent but remains under appreciated on these shores, is to curate a special festival at the club in January.

Dubbed “At Mr Parker’s Pleasure” the festival explores a wide range of music over five nights from 26 January beginning with an appearance by highly rated young improv pianist Alexander Hawkins and his ensemble that also features vibes master Orphy Robinson. This is followed by Django Bates’ Belovèd Bird Trio, which debuted at the Vortex a few years ago and also featured a tumultuous guest spot from Parker, reprised here on 27 Jan. Then it’s the return of the Hans Koller Big Band who launch their new album Cry, Want, again with Parker adding his distinctive edge (28 Jan).

Perhaps the surprise pick of the week is MOBO-winning quartet Empirical (on 29 Jan), who in spite of basing their sound on that of a classic sax/vibes-led bop quartet subvert this with complex rhythmic ideas, M-BASE-styled funk and adventurous stylistic intersections.

The closing night (30 Jan) also features a surprise choice for a Parker collaboration in the form of a duet with octogenarian Brit-Jazz icon Stan Tracey. The latter may well be regarded as the UK’s answer to Thelonious Monk, yet Tracey has proved his free improv credentials with fellow pianist Keith Tippett (check out their excellent Supernova LP), here though he’ll be duetting with Parker before a second half set with his drummer son Clark.

– Mike Flynn