by Scott YanowLouie Bellson's big bands are always hot and explosive, if not all that surprising. This 1987 CD features four originals by the drummer, three obscurities, and an opening "Caravan" that has solo space for guest flugelhornist Clark Terry, the great tenor Don Menza and Bellson. The other selections feature such talented soloists as trumpeters Brian O'Flaherty and Glenn Drewes, George Young on alto and soprano, altoist Joe Roccisano, Kenny Hitchcock on tenor, and pianist John Bunch. The 17-piece big band mixes together veterans with comparative youngsters and has many names familiar to followers of Bellson's orchestras. An above-average effort from the swinging crew.