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Introducing Best Laid Plans: Igniting Audiences with Energetic Melodies and Electrifying Performances!

Prepare to be captivated by the explosive energy of Best Laid Plans, an extraordinary band known for their blazing solos, impeccable musicianship, and dynamic range. With a lineup featuring an exceptional assembly of talent, this unstoppable force includes Nick La Riviere on trombone and vocals, Miguel Valdes on trumpet, Barrie Sorensen on sax, Kelly Fawcett on guitar, Chris Van Sickle or Attila Fias on keys and vocals, Louis Rudner on bass, and Alex Campbell on drums. Together, they create an electrifying fusion of genres, effortlessly maneuvering between original compositions, infectious New Orleans party music, soulful R&B, and all things fun!

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Fronted by the acclaimed singer-songwriter Nick La Riviere, whose trombone mastery has taken him around the world with renowned acts like the Juno award-winning Paperboys, Michael Kaeshammer, 54-40, The BC World Music Collective, and Adonis Puentes, Best Laid Plans is a band with an unyielding passion for their craft. Nick’s remarkable talent has even led to unforgettable collaborations, including performances alongside luminaries such as Steven Page (Barenaked Ladies) and The Temptations. As a freelancer, he stands as one of Victoria’s most sought-after musicians, enriching the local music scene with his exceptional artistry.

Drawing inspiration from influential artists such as Trombone Shorty, Galactic, The Preservation Hall Band, and Allen Toussaint, Best Laid Plans creates an authentic musical experience. Their original compositions embody a piano-centric fusion of pop and funk, infused with the infectious energy of New Orleans-style horns and punctuated by electrifying trombone solos that leave audiences breathless.

  • “Powerful and rich vocals. ‘Where We Go’ is the perfect pick-me-up for those long summer days; it’s original, exciting, and the lyrics are incredibly catchy.”LostInTheNordics.com
  • “With a slightly velvety and natural voice, he fits his lines into the song without technical exaggeration, but with perfect pitch and unparalleled balance.”Roadie Music Mag
  • “With a stinger ending, this powerful and super catchy track has all the elements needed for a summer anthem.”SendMeYourEars.com
  • “The extraordinarily talented trombonist, Nick La Riviere, is a true showman.  His enthusiasm and energy totally engaged the audience and it was obvious that he loved every minute of what he was doing on stage.”Sheila Midgley, Galiano Concert Society
  • “…his headlining appearances qualify as mark-your-calendar nights of entertainment.”Mike Devlin, Times Colonist
  • “La Riviere negotiates his own challenging music with passion and noble grace.”Raul D'Gama Rose, All About Jazz
  • “Nick’s musical diversity has led to performances with some of the finest musicians in the country and abroad.”Devon MacKenzie, Peninsula News Review
  • “The guy has a flare, which makes the music simply a joy to listen to.”Calvin Daniels, Yorkton This Week
  • “Nick La Riviere is one of the hardest-working musicians in town.”Adrian Chamberlain, Times Colonist
  • “A really lyrical sound.”Wynton Marsalis
  • “Exuberant, multi-faceted, humorous, outgoing, and just fun.”Jeremiah Sutherland, Island Jazz
  • “Infectious, energetic, and fun. This band has it all!”Darryl Mar, Artistic Director, Victoria Jazz Society

More Press (click)

Versatility lies at the core of Best Laid Plans’ ethos, making them the perfect choice for any occasion. Whether performing their own awe-inspiring originals or delivering high-energy covers for an enthusiastic dance floor in a lively bar, this band is devoted to spreading joy through music. Joining them for their cover shows is the phenomenal Danielle Lebeau-Peterson, adding her guitar finesse and vocal prowess to the mix.

Best Laid Plans are available to elevate festivals, theaters, weddings, parties, corporate events, bar performances, and any other setting where people crave an unforgettable, good-time experience. Their mission is simple: to create music that resonates with people’s happiness and leaves a lasting impact on every listener.

Experience the thrill of Best Laid Plans as they ignite the stage with their dynamic presence and sensational sound. Brace yourself for an unforgettable musical journey where infectious rhythms, soulful melodies, and pure passion converge to create an electrifying experience like no other.

Performing Covers

Performing (mainly) Originals (filmed at the Port Theatre, Nanaimo)

Here’s another video of the cover version of the band:

Like the video above and want to see more?
Here’s a longer version of the same video

“Your performance was a crowd favourite!
Thank you for bringing joy and cheer to our event!”
Stephanie Meine, Brink Events

I was in the Irish Times and saw your show. It was incredible and I thought it was the best live band performance in a small venue I have ever seen in my 55 years on planet earth. I went in at around 9 for a beer and thought that would be it. My wife and I didn’t leave until the end!!
Andrew Crichton, emailed comments from audience member

“Infectious, energetic, and fun. This band has it all!”
Darryl Mar, executive/artistic director, Victoria Jazz Society

“…his headlining appearances qualify as mark-your-calendar nights of entertainment.”
Mike Devlin, Times Colonist

“The extraordinarily talented trombonist, Nick La Riviere, is a true showman.  His enthusiasm and energy totally engaged the audience and it was obvious that he loved every minute of what he was doing on stage.”
Sheila Midgley, Galiano Concert Society

“Nick’s musical diversity has led to performances with some of the finest musicians in the country and abroad.”
Devon MacKenzie, Peninsula News Review

“The guy has a flare, which makes the music simply a joy to listen to.”
Calvin Daniels, Yorkton This Week

For more press, click here!

Promo Photos (click here for full resolution image download)


Stage Plots

Full 7 Piece Original Band
7 Piece Band Performing Covers