The astoundingly versatile and gifted pianist/songwriter Jon Regen returns to our part of the world Friday with a performance at the Side Door jazz club in the Old Lyme Inn.

Regen's been riding high of late - as in the top of the Billboard New Age charts. His "Change Your Mind" CD, a collaboration with physician Dr. Mitch Gaynor, has also been in the iTunes Top Ten for eight weeks.

Also, Regen's recent "Revolution" album, comprising several of his sophisticated, Connick, Jr./Billy Joel-style pop tunes, included appearances by Andy Summers, Benmont Tench, and Rob Thomas.

All this, in conjunction with his reputation as a superb post-bop stylist, should result in a memorable show at the Side Door. Bassist Richard Hammond and drummer Abe Vogel fill out the trio.

- RICK KOSTER

The Jon Regen Trio, 7:30 p.m. Friday, The Side Door, Old Lyme Inn, 85 Lyme St., Old Lyme (860) 434-0886, thesidedoorjazz.com.