On this episode of The Bandwich Tapes, I sit down with guitarist and composer Bob Lanzetti, best known as one of the founding members of Snarky Puppy. I’ve admired Bob’s playing for a long time, so getting the chance to talk with him felt especially meaningful. We begin with something many musicians quietly carry with them: the fear of hand issues and how that concern evolves over the course of a career. Bob reflects honestly on how he thinks about it now compared to earlier years.
From there, we rewind to the beginning—growing up around his dad’s guitar, discovering The Beatles, and the simple invitation that changed everything: “Learn this song and you can sit in with my band.” That moment set Bob firmly on the path toward becoming a guitarist. He traces his journey through early mentors, jazz studies, and eventually to the University of North Texas, where he found a musical community that would change his life—and where Snarky Puppy first came together.
We spend time talking about the musical ecosystem around North Texas as well, especially the gospel and R&B scenes that shaped Bob’s ear in ways the classroom couldn’t. Bob shares how Snarky Puppy actually learns and rehearses music—often through oral tradition, demos, and Logic sessions—and how the band’s three-guitar setup works without stepping on each other’s sonic space. Along the way, he reflects on something younger musicians often overlook: the importance of restraint, listening, and self-balancing within a band.
One of my favorite parts of the conversation centers on Bob’s Nosferatu project, where he composed and performed an original score for the classic silent film during the COVID years. That project opened the door to exploring 20th-century classical textures, string writing, layered guitars, and production techniques. We wrap up by talking about the wide range of influences that shape Bob’s music—from Charlie Christian and Jim Hall to Sonic Youth and Derek Bailey—and what’s ahead in 2026, including GroundUP Festival, touring with Snarky Puppy alongside the Metropole Orchestra, his trio work, and the growing role of producing in his creative life.
Key Takeaways
- Musicians confront physical concerns over time — long careers require resilience and perspective.
- Early invitations can shape a life path — a simple opportunity to sit in with a band set Bob on the guitar journey.
- Community matters — the University of North Texas and the surrounding Dallas scene were foundational for Snarky Puppy.
- Listening and restraint define great band playing — especially in complex ensemble settings like a three-guitar lineup.
- Musical learning often happens by ear — oral tradition and demos play a huge role in how bands develop material.
- Creative side projects expand the palette — Bob’s Nosferatu score opened the door to new textures and production ideas.
- Producing can become another creative outlet — shaping the sound of recordings scratches the same itch as performing.
Music from the Episode
- B - Bob Lanzetti
- Anonymous - Bob Lanzetti
- The Seven Deadly Sins (from Nosferatu) - Bob Lanzetti
- Jenny is a Donkey - Bob Lanzetti
About the Podcast
The Bandwich Tapes is a podcast hosted by Brad Williams, featuring conversations with musicians, composers, producers, and creative thinkers about their musical journeys. Each episode explores the influences, decisions, and experiences that shape a life in music—one conversation at a time.
Connect with the Show
Email: contact@thebandwichtapes.com