Best Laid Plans
Summit, 2026
9/10
The composer, arranger and conductor Jon Schapiro returns with a 3rd release by his Schapiro 17 band, where both originals and covers are fleshed out with plenty of attention to detail.
The dense versus soft “Ugly Chic” opens with Sebastian Noelle’s thick guitar alongside the richly layered horns, and “Chameleon” follows with the soulful sax amid the colorful trumpets of the reserved climate.
Halfway through, “Solace” showcases Simona Premazzi’s agile keys before the layered winds enter the frisky 9+ minutes, while “East Broadway Run Down” benefits from Jon Wikan’s animated drumming that complements the infectious energy of the timeless jazz sounds.
Arriving late, “Moment’s Notice” allows for Bob Sabin’s skilled bass to help illuminate the cautious yet adventurous brass and wind dynamics, and “The Uncluttered Mind” exits with the meticulous rhythm section and lively keys matching the trumpets, trombones and reeds.
There’s a few new players in the ensemble this time around, and it helps make for busy and calm moments that emits plenty of solos, grooves and rhythm that you can’t not admire.
Travels well with: Schaprio 17- New Shoes: Kind Of Blue At 60; Steve Rosenbloom Big Band- San Francisco 1948