The Bob Florence Limited Edition is one of the best big bands recording today. I second the Rob McConnell & The Boss Brass. Bob Curnow's L.A. Big Band is another good group. Sadly, Mel Lewis & Thadd Jones have both passed on, but their recordings are among the best. Happy listening.
Jazz- Modern big band
Was going to post at Jazz Recommendations but thought better make a new thread... Any suggestions for good contemporary (let's say last 20 or so years) big band material? Economics make this an increasingly rare format, but there must be some good stuff out there. I read about Maria Schneider in the Dec. Sterophile; maybe I should try her. I have and enjoy Gil Evans sessions at Sweet Basil. I suppose Thad Jones and Mel Lewis still have their orchestra going. I used to really dig the Toshiko Akiyoshi/Lew Tabackin big band; Akiyoshi must still be doing her thing. I haven't been paying attention for a while and don't have anything in big band, besides the Evans, from the 80's or 90's. What should I be aware of?