Yeah, I know what you mean. When I was playing Latin Band, I had a heck of a time trying to practice my parts (2nd trumpet) outside of the context of the rest of the music. What did I do? NOTHING!
I "practiced" at the rehearsals and gigs.
While I realize this is not ideal, it got me to the point where I learned faster and read better, and I did them well enough that I was ok at the gig.
I agree about trying to find recordings. That's how I practice drums for the Praise music I play.