Jazz fans- let's talk (modern day) big bands

[DancingBear]

Here are two of my favorites:

Bob Florence Limited Edition - Even though Florence plays electric piano (and I hate electric piano) the charts he writes for this band are just amazing, and this band has "chops" beyond belief. On their earlier albums, they were driven by an amazing drummer named Nick Ceroli, who if memory holds was (at one time) the drummer for Herb Alpert and the Tijuana Brass! I think they are primarily a west coast band, but I'm not sure.

Vanguard Jazz Orchestra - These guys began life as the Thad Jones - Mel Lewis Orchestra, so that gives you some idea of their pedigree. Their LP "Can I Persuade You?" is a bit hard to find, but worth the trouble. While several of the tunes are not well known (I had not heard of at least two of the composers) the musicianship is breathtaking. Cue up "A Simple Wish" or the VJO takes on "Sophisticated Lady" and "Antigua" and enjoy.

Any other recommendations out there?

[Skink]

1. I got to see Chico O'farill....

At Birdland. It was smoking.

:smoke: