PETER HAND - OUT OF HAND (Savant Records) ★★★★★ (5 stars)

Big bands supposedly died decades ago. Certainly the touring variety vanished for economic reasons, yet the attraction of a large ensemble survives in rehearsal bands, where musicians come together, largely for kicks, because they savour the unity of expression that is the nature of an expansive ensemble. Peter Hand, a most able guitarist, has put together a splendid 16-piece unit which upholds the spirit and history of the genre. He wrote all the nicely crafted arrangements, composed five originals and brought in Houston Person as a star soloist for "Sunny," "Blues In The Night" and "Day Dream." 

Hand features his own agile guitar work (and why not?) fairly prominently, but also allows his talented co-workers ample space, and this is a band packed with distinctive players, such as trombonist Vince Gardner, saxophonists Don Braden and Ralph Lalama and trumpeters Valery Ponomarev and John Bailey. The writing is fresh and well conceived for a band which understands the importance of dynamics. There are many original touches, like "Summertime" in 6/4 time and an inspired re-casting of "Day Dream" which melds several influences into a satisfying whole. 

This is the band’s second outing; the first was a live set of Harold Arlen tunes which also warrants investigation. Out Of Hand fully merits a five-star rating and will be a strong contender for record of the year honours.