Lucas Coker

Description

While working towards his long-time academic dream of becoming a psychiatrist, guitarist Lucas Coker has explored the depths of classical music theory, cognitive psychology, world religions, organic chemistry, jazz composition, human decision-making, mind-body philosophy, evolutionary genetics... 

It is this unique universal perspective that breathes life into his music.  

Work Sample

Please listen to the song (Green Eyes - Erykah Badu) starting at 00:08:30 (~10 minutes total run time).  Feel free to listen to as little or as much of the song as you please, but I would recommend listening to at least the point where it really starts to groove!  Date presented: August 12 2020.  

This is an original contemporary jazz composition of mine entitled "Closure" (run time ~10:32).  Similarly, feel free to listen to as little or as much as you please, but I would certainly recommend listening to the solo guitar portion beginning at 7:15.  

This is a solo guitar interpretation of Joe Pass' "Summertime" rendition.  Total run time ~1:00.  

"Green Eyes" by Erykah Badu is a perfect example of a song that bridges the gap between music academia and popular music.  The hip-hop inspired groove creates a forward momentum that keeps the listener on the edge of their seat.  Yet, the harmony is actually quite complex, using modal interchange to create a specific "vibey/somber" emotion.  My original piece "Closure" contrarily uses a somewhat more complex groove (afro-cuban inspired) with simpler "classic rock" harmony, to once again satisfy both musicians and non-musicians alike.  Summertime was included to demonstrate my technical facility on my instrument.  

History

I have performed numerous times at many landmark Chicago venues, including: The Jazz Showcase, Pianoforte Studios, Fulton Street Collective, and Archie's Cafe.

Additionally, I have been blessed to have the opportunity to play with numerous giants of jazz music, notably: Donny McCaslin, Dave Douglas, Mark Colby, Sean Jones, Matt Wilson, Jiggs Wigham, Matt Ulery, Scott Burns, amongst many others.  

Artistic Vision

My music focuses on blending and balancing revered traditional jazz language, visceral classic rock riffing, hip-hop simplicity and vibes, and modern avant-garde exploration.  The blending of these styles is an effort to create "art music" that satisfies the intellectual curiosity of esteemed musicians and professors, but is still able to inspire and entertain young, non-musician, and/or hobbyist listeners.  

Programs for Specific Audience(s) Expertise

My group has worked meticulously to be able to perform music with academic merit for audiences of any musical background and ability.  Our performances can range from single-chord rock grooves with screaming high guitar solos that draw on the tradition of Jimi Hendrix and Pink Floyd, to hyper-complex post-bop jazz in the style of John Coltrane and Wayne Shorter.  

Traditional Folk/Ethnic Artform Statement

Jazz music is an African American music.  Though I am not African American, experiencing first hand the diversity within the Chicago jazz music scene has grown me ever-closer to the roots of this music, and the struggles of many with discrimination that led to its formation.  Whenever my group and I perform, this is at the forefront of our minds.