Day By Day
Outside In, 2026
9/10
The composer/arranger Zhengtao Pan brings along his 17 piece ensemble for this jazz, classical and chamber influenced listen.
The elegant “Childhood” opens with Rufus Reid’s skilled bass complementing the rich brass and warm strings, and “Dave’s Here” follows with Andrew Gutauskas’ firm reed gestures and Chen Wang’s radiant guitar adding much to the meticulousness.
“Endless Cycle” arrives in the middle and is a busy and melodic moment that benefits from Adam Birnbaum’s piano prowess, while “Wind Dance’ welcomes Steve Wilson’s flowing sax amid the dreamy textures.
Arriving late, “Aurora” makes great use of Sara Gazarek’s animated scatting that suits the harmonic quality of the album’s best, and the title track exits with intimacy and grace via Martha Kato’s keys and Sam Dillon’s reeds.
A reflective and gorgeous body of work, Pan’s vision is handled precisely thanks to the esteemed players, where a heartfelt presence and much adventurousness is appreciated.
Travels well with: Zhengtao Pan- Mirror Floating On The Water; Zhengtao Pan Jazz Orchestra- Scenery In My Story