I think the problem trying to play 'Big Band' on an arranger is that a big band arrangement is too complex to get the dynamics in the right places AND that the 'generic' style parts in 'big band' styles rarely fit any specific song very well.
chas
I try to pull off big band too and agree. Very tuff to do on an arranger.
But anyways I liked the 2nd one better. I'm not sure a Korg Kronos was necessary though?