Contemporary jazz guitarist Lee Alec Barrie is performing Sundays from 6 p.m. to
9:30 p.m. at Little Bucharest Bistro, 3661 N. Elston Ave., Chicago beginning this Sunday, May 30.
His evolution as a guitarist was accelerated when he began to experiment with a Roland guitar synthesizer, which allows his electric guitar to take on the sound of a wide range of instruments. He now has the opportunity to solo as a saxophonist, flutist, organist, violinist and many others, all while playing on the guitar. He chooses the instrument based on the style and mood of the song.
Barrie’s idea for a “virtual band project”—whereby he plays solo over his pre-recorded jazz backing tracks—evolved naturally. Having taken a break from professional performance for a number of years, he became a self-taught jazz pianist and a computer technology expert, which gave him the musical and technical skill to arrange and record his own instrumental backing tracks at his home recording studio, using digital sequencing, sampling and virtual instrumentation. “By using my own arrangements and voicings, and taking advantage of the guitar synthesizer to create a variety of solo sounds, I can easily perform in a live situation, bring the whole “virtual band” with me and play the music I enjoy. It seems that my audiences enjoy it too. I’ve been told it is so apparent how I love playing that this energy translates to my audiences as well.” An event featuring the live music of Lee Alec Barrie is memorable; an energizing and refreshing musical experience that heightens the enjoyment of people having great times together.
Bucharest Bistro is a Romanian inspired, contemporary American bistro located in the Old Irving Park area. The newly revived Little Bucharest incorporates dark wood fixtures, exposed brick walls, Romanian stained glass panels and specialty Romanian tapestries.
Little Bucharest, which translates to “Little Paris of the East”, blends a touch of Romanian heritage with American contemporary fare in a vibrant and modern atmosphere.
“I wanted to bring the signature high-energy vibe of the old Little Bucharest into a new setting,” says owner Branko Podrumedic. “The bistro will present Romanian flavors in an approachable way to appeal to more of a mainstream audience.”
There is no cover charge. Guests are encourage to make dinner reservations by calling 773-604-8500. The menu can be found at Little Bucharest’s website.
Ask for details when you make your reservation.