From the opening notes, the brilliance of tone of the Dave Holland Big Band lifts the spirits and expectations. It is this mood that begins “The Monterey Suite,” a work commissioned for performance at the 2001 Monterey Jazz Festival that includes four movements comprising most of the disc. Holland, a virtuosic bassist and equally adept composer, is amid his superb, and long-time quintet with reedman Chris Potter, drummer Billy Kilson, vibist Steve Nelson and trombonist Robin Eubanks. The 13-piece ensemble’s ranks are filled out with more outstanding musicians that add further layers to the core and take some mighty solos themselves. Holland’s always eloquent and informed bass introduces “Free for All,” with Nelson’s vibes gracefully welcoming the rest of the orchestra. The quiet start gives way to a big joyfulness and ultimately elation. This tune gets downright danceable and funky. On Overtime, Dave Holland once again offers music of the human spirit and mental capacity. It makes you smile, think and wonder.