Trumpeter Theo Croker is one of the great promises of American jazz. In his original music he draws upon the first principle of jazz: to merge and interpret history, styles and ideas and create a unique sound. At a very young age he has built experience as a band leader, following the example of his mentor Donald Byrd. On his breakthrough album Afro Physicist he collaborated with two other greats, vocalist DeeDee Bridgewater and trumpet hero Roy Hargrove. For his most recent album Escape Velocity he has also garnered rave reviews.
‘One of the most varied jazz albums of recent times. And one of the better ones. A broad sound with often a firm funk base. Aa accessible as Snarky Puppy, but without the jazz rock motifs. And oftentimes as grandiose and compelling as Kamasi Washington on his acclaimed The Epic’ (de Volkskrant on Escape Velocity).
‘Theo Croker is a trumpeter of splendid contrasts, his tone warm but piercing, his phrasing gentle but insistent’ (Downbeat).
Theo Croker trumpet/compositions, Irwin Hall alto saxophone, Mike King piano/keys, Eric Wheeler bass, Kassa Overall drums