Composer and pianist Simon Pilbrow teams up with the Brent Fischer Orchestra and guests Ken Peplowski/cl, Bobby Shew/tp and Larry Koonse/g for a swinging and optimistic collection of originals. Fischer does the arranging while adding bass, vibes and marimba, with the charts a mix of vintage feel and forward looking directions.
A take of the “Rhythm” changes has the brass volleying along with Carl Sunders on “Austrialia” with “Remembering Woody Shaw” featuring Ron Stout sizzling with Bob Sheppard’s soprano on the stark statement. The rhythm team lead by Ray Brinker’s drums snaps on “Fast Fingers” which have Ken Peplowski’s clarinet dashing around the fun grooves, while a gorgeous samba “Autumn Breeze” features Larry Koonse’s deft guitar musings. The exciting section work mixed with sagacious solos make this a hit for big band fans.