One enthusiastic patron points out the remnants of this club’s risqué history, complete with red lightbulbs, expansive mirrors, and sparkling golden decorations adorning the ceiling. Although the tale of King Georg being a former table-dancing venue is a myth, the ambiance certainly reflects that spirited past. On March 27, it hosted an electrifying night filled with lively swing and passionate solos.

This performance was a highlight of the venue’s New York Jazz series, showcasing tenor saxophonist Ralph Moore and pianist Dave Kikoski, accompanied by Markus Schieferdecker on bass and Joris Dudli on drums. With the exception of Schieferdecker, who resides in Germany, the musicians initially connected in New York City, and the set exudes the dynamic energy emblematic of the city that never sleeps.

Kikoski opens several songs with playful improvisations before his bandmates join in with a surge of swing. This is particularly evident in Duke Pearson’s piece “Is That So?” When it’s Kikoski’s turn to solo, he showcases his impressive ability to weave melodies within the music, all while bouncing energetically and flashing a big smile.

In a tranquil duet interlude, Schieferdecker and Dudli momentarily withdraw. This composition exudes an unconventional quality, with each measure appearing to reflect the distinct phases of grief. Moore’s saxophone frequently produces a delicate croak within the palm-key range, employing slips and trills to emphasize pivotal tones, evoking a sound reminiscent of Coltrane.

Cologne-based saxophonist Seamus Blake joins the group for three songs, including Hank Mobley’s “This I Dig Of You.” Blake arrives with a fierce intensity, bombarding each beat with an abundance of notes and punctuating it with high-altitude runs. When the horns exchange solos, Moore adopts a softer technique, focusing on lyrical phrasing instead of sheer power.

Although the club’s history may not involve dancing on tables, this talented ensemble had the audience tapping their feet and nodding along to their infectious swing music. The club’s decor playfully contributes to its folklore, while the quartet, along with their guest, infused a taste of New York City into Northwest Germany for a few hours, as the locals perceived.