Billy Byers, Count Basie

Count Me In (edited)

Much like Neil Hefti's Li'l Darlin', this Billy Byers original exemplifies quiet, warm ensemble writing at its finest. There is also the contrast of a strong shout section before returning to the quieter approach. This was recorded by the Count Basie Orchestra on the album Count Basie's Finest Hour (originally Basie Land). Set as a medium-slow swing feel, there are solos for trumpet and piano. In this edited version, the arrangement is almost exactly like the original, except the solos are written out, the high trumpet parts are adjusted, and the saxophone parts have been simplified a bit. 5-4-4-4