This brings back great memories and a tear as well. As a teenager a friend and I were able to sneak into the club Fatha was playing, drink a few beers and enjoy ourselves, as long as we behaved. The concert halls and bars that had rockers ended up with fights, raids and sweeps by John Law, busting troublemakers and underage patrons. That never happened in jazz clubs. Far better clientele. (Late 1960s to 72 or so) it was amazing, going to see some of the same greats my parents saw during the 30s!
I have for a long time idolized Tatum - and still do. But there is a certain infectious, sensual quality Earl Hines has - plus he swung just as much as Tatum did. Tatum was a superb performer sure, but there are times when I would prefer Hines. His musicality is simply arresting.