Bay Area guitarist George Cotsirilos returns to the intimate language of solo nylon-string guitar on In the Wee Hours, due for release by OA2 Records on May 15th, performed live for you at Bird & Beckett on Friday, April 24th.

Illuminating beloved standards and two original compositions with patience and depth, George recorded these tunes in unedited first takes over a period of several years. Gathered on this, his seventh recording on OA2, the album unfolds with the quiet authority and refined lyricism that have defined George’s career—from his early solo and trio recordings to his celebrated quartet release, Refuge–recordings praised for their fluidity and swing.

On In the Wee Hours, classics such as “Come Sunday,” “Haunted Heart” and the title ballad are rendered with a meticulous touch and subtle dynamic shadings that reveal the hidden architecture of each melody. Alternating between exquisite instruments by José Ramirez and Alberto Morales, Cotsirilos draws out warm, singing tones that blur the line between jazz phrasing and classical resonance.

Tonight, Bird & Beckett is pleased to present a solo performance of material from the album, followed by a number of duo tunes in collaboration with the renowned bassist Robb Fisher.

$20 cover charge; byob. Reservations can be made by calling the bookshop at 415-586-3733.

 “…an unerring sense of swing and melody. His solos, while displaying accuracy and technique, are filled with soul.”
Vintage Guitar Magazine

“…an impeccable sense of timing especially in revealing the hidden rhythms of complex melodies. His approach to harmony is whimsical, but patently beautiful at all times.”
All About Jazz