Rossano Sportiello, Eddie Metz & Nicki Parrott - It's a Good Day (2014)

There is much to be said for musical simpatico. These trio-mates have it in great abundance in live concert – and on the recording studio, as this newest Arbors CD attests. Their forte is in gems from the Great American Songbook, jazz standards and adding jazz twists to classical music. The latter is a natural fit because of Milan native Rossano Sportiello’s classical piano training and amazing chops in so many styles.
Favorites: the band’s elegant take on Quincy Jones’ ballad "Quintessence,” its romp through “Lavender Blue,” which Burl Ives sang in the 1948 Disney film So Dear to My Heart, Sportiello’s solo take on “This Is No Laughing Matter,” and bassist-singer Nicki Parrott’s warm and vibrant vocal approach to “Pick Yourself Up” and the Peggy Lee classic “It’s a Good Day.” Other treats: the band’s jazz adventures on two classical pieces: Beethoven’s “Piano Sonata” and Bach’s “Jesu, Joy of Man’s Desiring.” Drummer Eddie Metz Jr.’s subtle surprises enhance his solid swing. As evidenced by this project, it is great to see Rachel Dombers carrying on the work of her late husband, Arbors founder Mat Dombers, who passed away in September 2012.