Recorded in Rome during Chet Baker's European stay, this album marks his return to recording after legal and addiction problems in the United States. The production was handled by the Italian branch of RCA, with arrangements by musician and composer Gianni Ferrio.
The repertoire combines jazz standards with original themes by Ferrio, showing Baker in a renewed creative state. The session included Italian session musicians, and the album cover reflects the aesthetics of Italian cinema of the time.
Although not an immediate commercial success, over time 'Chet Is Back!' has been revalued as a testament to Baker's artistic resilience and his ability to adapt to different musical contexts, consolidating his legend in Europe.