I do not know if anyone has mentioned this yet but check out Charlton Johnson's book on big band comping. I have gone through that book and have found it very informative. It is available through Hal Leonard and is around 15 - 20 bucks. Johnson not only took over Freddie's spot in the band after his death but he and Eddie Durham are really the only two guys that recorded electric guitar solos with the Basie Band. I haven't really checked out the bands latest recordings but I have met Wil and have heard him play. Both Johnson and Matthews are great in that style and have a great deal to offer those of us interested in it.
