Chris Potter’s Circuits Trio made a splash at Blues Alley — with jaw-dropping moments from James Francies

The future of jazz piano lies in 23-year-old James Francies.

That’s an odd takeaway from a performance by Chris Potter’s Circuits Trio, led by saxophonist Potter, but a power trio if ever there was one. If anything, Francies was the least ostentatious member of the band during Tuesday night’s tremendous first set at Blues Alley, often operating on a level just above liminal. When he did let loose, though, it was clear that we were hearing something new, exciting — and special.