Lettuce
The reigning kings of psychedelic funk return to SFJAZZ for their Cook World Tour, a four-night summer residency celebrating their latest album Cook — a 16-track "sensory experience" featuring standout collaborations like "Keep On" with Tower of Power founder Emilio Castillo.
What started as enthusiastic Berklee students hitting up Boston clubs with the plea "Let us play!" has evolved into a modern funk supergroup that sells out major theaters worldwide. Over three decades, the sextet has perfected their signature blend of hip-hop-influenced grooves, psychedelic textures, and old-school funk precision. Their live shows are legendary — extended two-hour sets packed with sizzling solos, fearless improvisation, and infectious on-stage chemistry that keeps audiences dancing throughout.
Each member brings serious credentials beyond their collective work. Drummer Adam Deitch spent years as John Scofield's rhythm partner on albums like Überjam and Up All Night. Saxophonist Ryan Zoidis divided time between Soulive and Maine's Rustic Overtones. Bassist Erick "Jesus" Coomes has toured with everyone from Britney Spears to The Game. Guitarist Adam "Shmeeans" Smirnoff worked as a first-call sideman with Lady Gaga and Robert Randolph. Trumpeter Eric "Benny" Bloom, the band's newest addition, became a New Orleans stalwart through recordings with Jon Cleary and Aaron Neville. Keyboardist Nigel Hall anchors it all with his soulful vocals and Philadelphia International Records-influenced style.
Recent performances showcase their evolution from straight-ahead funk warriors into genre-blurring cosmonauts. At venues like the Fillmore, they've been mixing classics like the bluesy "Larimar" and the high-octane "Lettsanity" with newer material that touches everything from Latin vibes to quiet storm R&B. Their Blue Note NYC residency revealed their versatility through collaborations with hip-hop legends like Buckshot and Grand Puba, while their SFJAZZ appearances with John Scofield demonstrated their jazz fusion chops.
Expect this Cook World Tour to showcase their "rib-sticking funk" in all its glory — from the skittering beats and snaking basslines that define their sound to the squelching brass arrangements that make crowds move. Whether they're busting out trumpet-heavy early tracks or letting synth and sax shine on newer numbers, Lettuce delivers what fans describe as "finger-licking, booty-shaking sets" that leave everyone feeling euphoric.
Note: SFJAZZ is offering a special dance floor option for this residency — because some funk demands movement.