The graphic novel tells the story of Bird's time in L. A. starting in December 1945, whereBird and Dizzy Gillespie brought frenetic sounds of bebop from the East Coast jazzunderground to the West Coast for a two-month residency at Billy Berg's Hollywoodjazz club. This marked the beginning of a tumultuous two year-stint for Bird bummingaround L. A., showing up at jam sessions, crashing on people's couches, causing havocin public places, and recording some of his most groundbreaking tracks, \"A Night inTunisia\" and \"Ornithology,\" as well as \"Relaxin' At Camarillo,\" inspired by the end of histime in SoCal at the Camarillo State Hospital. The novel explores Bird's relationshipwith the characters and events he encountered during his time in L. A. includingrecording some of his signature songs with Dial Record founder Ross Russell, a briefbut influential stay at the home of famed jazz photographer William Claxton, a party forthe ages at the ranch home of artist Jirayr Zorthian, and others who found themselvesin the orbit of the jazz genius. Chasin' the Bird is named for Charlie Parker's 1947 standard, and adapts one of thesunnier, but darker chapters in the life of Bird, beautifully told by Dave ChisholmThe book will include an exclusive flexi disc record featuring a recording from Parker's time in Los Angeles. The deluxe limited edition will include a vinyl 45 with two tracks to be announced ahead of release. In conjunction with the graphic novel, Verve Records/UMe are currently working on a new album spanning Bird's L. A. period that will be released in Septemberas well. | Chasin' The Bird by Dave Chisholm, Hardcover | Indigo Chapters