Holland's latest effort is What Goes Around, the debut by his Big Band, which hits with the power of a quintessential jazz orchestra. Think Duke Ellington or Charles Mingus: booming, brassy, harmonically brilliant, and heavy on the swing. For this combo, Holland has expanded his longtime quintet -- trombonist Robin Eubanks, tenor saxophonist Chris Potter, vibraphonist Steve Nelson, and drummer Billy Kilson -- with eight additional horn players, including altoist Antonio Hart and baritonist Gary Smulyan. In contrast to similar efforts that anemically attempt to resurrect the sound of an old-school orchestra, this 13-piece ensemble's character stems from Holland's signature aim: to offer fresh arrangements of originals that capture the exuberant tradition without resorting to nostalgia. There's arguably no better definition of jazz -- and no other bassist working today who quite brings the concept to life.
