The George Cole Quintet swings onto the Freight stage tonight for an evening celebrating the centennial of the birthday of Django Reinhardt. Come hear stories of Django Reinhardt's life, interwoven with his original music and new, Django-inspired compositions. With the fiery guitar of George Cole as its centerpiece, this virtuoso Bay Area band invites you to close your eyes and be transported by their infectious Gypsy jazz groove. Joining George in the ensemble are vocalist Molly Mahoney, rhythm guitarist Jimmy Grant, and Kenan O'Brien on bass guitar. Julian Smedley will not be performing tonight as expected, however Grammy nominated violinist Jeremy Cohen will be ably filling in.

George Cole currently teaches Gypsy jazz guitar at the Freight, as well as performing great original music with his gypsy, swing, and jazz band. Says Art Thompson of Guitar Player magazine, "Cole's excellent Django-style guitar work and his band's enticing instrumental and vocal harmonies make them a must-see for any fan of vintage jazz."

Django Reinhardt taught himself to play the guitar and performed in the 1930's and 1940's in Europe even though he only had the use of two fingers on his left hand due to a fire. A furious, fast paced gypsy jazz virtuoso and guitar master, he and violinist Stephane Grappelli fronted the legendary 1930s European jazz band, Quintette du Hot Club de France, the combo that revolutionized jazz by applying an irresistible, string-fueled propulsion to the more sedate big-band sound of the time.

Carol Alban, principal flutist with the Bay Area Chamber Symphony, opens tonight's show with the sterling assistance of bassist Marc Levine, pianist Dylan Bard, and other special guests. Carol is also a composer and performer on piano, guitar, and vocals.

Visit George's website

Visit Carol's website