A big-band date that slightly predated pianist Gene Harris’ association with the Philip Morris Superband, this CD is ostensibly a tribute to the recently deceased Count Basie, but surprisingly, only two of the eight songs (“Swingin’ the Blues” and “Blue and Sentimental”) were played by Basie, although one original (“Captain Bill”) was written in homage of the bandleader. Harris’ 16-piece orchestra does bring back the spirit of Basie’s band in spots, with a lightly but steadily swinging rhythm section and such soloists as trumpeters Conte Candoli and Jon Faddis and tenors Plas Johnson and Bob Cooper. But in reality, Harris dominates the solo spotlight, and the music (which includes a memorable version of “When Did You Leave Heaven”) is a bit predictable. – Scott Yanow