Besides being an orchestra leader Count Basie (1904-1984) also liked to work with smaller ensembles. Septets from the early 80s with, among others, trumpeters Freddie Hubbard and Snooky Young, and tenor saxophonist Eddie Lockjaw Davis.
sources:
Count Basie Kansas City Seven (Pablo J33J 20007)
Count Basie Septet� (Pablo cd 2310-919)