The Lawson-Haggart Jazz Band had its genesis when both men were members of Bob Crosby's band in the mid-'30s; it was also a forerunner of the World's Greatest Jazz Band, with trumpeter Yank Lawson and bassist Bob Haggart in prominent roles in both groups. In spite of the corny album cover with a silhouette of a trumpeter in front of a riverboat, this septet is a swinging interpreter of traditional jazz favorites such as "Riverboat Shuffle," "Basin Street Blues," and "Way Down Yonder in New Orleans." The music is consistently fresh and exciting, with plenty of strong interplay in the group improvisations as well as strong individual solos. Trombonist Lou McGarity matches the power of Lawson's trumpet, while clarinetist Bill Stegmeyer concentrates on adding background color. In addition to his rock-steady bass playing, Haggart whistles a chorus of "St. Louis Blues." The rhythm section, in addition to Haggart, includes pianist Lou Stein, guitarist George Barnes, and drummer Cliff Leeman. This long out of print LP will be somewhat difficult to locate, but fans of traditional jazz and Dixieland should make the effort to acquire it.