Viennese clarinetist/alto saxophonist Franz Georg ‘Fatty George’ Pressler ranks as one of the major figures in Europe’s traditional jazz renaissance. Influenced by Benny Goodman’s swing style and Lee Konitz’ modernism, George brought a touch of the contemporary into his brand of classic Chicago jazz. The sextet on this 1978 release includes one of Europe’s most respected traditional jazz players, George’s longtime friend and musical companion, Austrian trumpeter/guitarist Oscar Klein, while Swiss drumming phenom Charly Antolini fires up the rhythm section. Louis Armstrong’s ‘Hot Five’ classic Hotter Than That features crack Ensemble playing and hot solos in the best ‘Satchmo’ tradition, while a relaxed Sugar features an especially sweet clarinet. Earl ‘Fatha’ Hines’ Monday Date has trombonist Roy Crimmins crooning ala Armstrong along with some ornate ensemble play. On Exactly Like You Klein switches to guitar in a mellow duo with Fatty George. Gershwin’s I Got Rhythm is given a lively trad-to-modern swing interpretation, whereas Klein’s sparkling trumpet leads out Big Boy. With its more modern swing feel, Gershwin’s ‘S Wonderful highlights Crimmins’ trombone and vocals, and the sextet walks through some relaxed, bluesy solos on If I Had You. Fatty George and Dutch pianist Hans Van Der Sys exchange ideas in duo on Tangerine, as Fatty and band conclude with their poignant rendition of Hoagy Carmicheal’s, Georgia On My Mind. Beautifully recorded, and played with a vibrant authenticity, the music digs deep into the Chicago jazz tradition.