Some jazz tomorrow

Playing in a small group tomorrow. Been a while since I played some standards and really, I mean really, played jazz. I often do it within the confines of the big band and it can be hit or miss. If you are not familiar with the melody of a big band chart, it is more difficult (I feel) to sell a solo, as it can be detached from the arrangement. In a smaller group, the melody can really be the thread that holds the music together. By "the melody," I mean the rhythmic, melodic, stylistic, and dynamic aspects of that melody - not just the notes. You really need to know the tune inside and out and then you can hint at that melody. Looking forward to doing that.