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Theo Croker finds a path to jazz greatness on ‘Dream Manifest’ by unlearning the rules of the genre

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In every aspect, Theo Croker can be described as a skilled jazz musician. At the age of 39, he is a versatile trumpeter and composer who has earned a Grammy nomination in the jazz category. He has graced some of the most prestigious jazz stages worldwide, and his mentor was Donald Byrd at the Oberlin Conservatory of Music, where he completed his education in jazz music. Notably, Dee Dee Bridgewater produced Theo’s third album, “Afro Physicist,” which includes fellow trumpeter Roy Hargrove as a featured artist.

Indeed, you’re correct in labeling him as a jazz artist, but it’s essential to note that Croker, who has lived and worked extensively in China for seven years and currently resides between Orlando, Florida, and Sao Paulo, Brazil, has a unique perspective on what constitutes jazz. Unlike the traditional American understanding, his interpretation of jazz is more global and diverse.

He explains to The Times that the music he creates, which is more akin to Jazz, is incredibly open-minded since the locations where he performs and spends significant time define Jazz as a very inclusive term, encompassing Black music. For instance, in China, they view Jazz as including artists like Michael Jackson, Stevie Wonder, Miles Davis, Coltrane, and more. This perception of Jazz is not confined by strict definitions as it often is in America, where if it’s not ‘purist’, it’s not considered Jazz. However, he doesn’t face such limitations elsewhere; people are generally open to this genre.

The impending “Dream Manifest” album by Croker, set for release on June 13, is being driven by his eclectic nature and daring spirit. For this eighth album, he chose to let his imagination run wild. As he puts it, “This album is a journey into my dreams. I’m making them real. It’s like you’re peeking into my dream diary.” Essentially, he’s immersing himself in a fantasy world and attempting to break free from any limitations or creative barriers that might exist.

On “Dream Manifest,” Croker traverses an expansive musical landscape, uninhibited by any constraints. The graceful, vintage-style opener, “Prelude 3,” could easily find a home on a jazz playlist from the ’50s or ’60s. A testament to enduring elegance, it paves the way for the contemporary love ballad “One Pillow,” which features Estelle and Kassa Overall. Another notable track is “Light as a Feather,” featuring Gary Bartz and Natureboy Flako. With its exceptional musicianship combined with a rhythmic, captivating beat, this song beautifully blends genres. He revisits a more conventional sound on the instrumental “Crystal Waters,” which evokes reminiscences of Chuck Mangione, and masterfully taps into his Brazilian style on the 7 ½-minute track “We Still Wanna Dance,” featuring D’leau.

Despite the upbeat and melodic nature of these tunes, Croker views this album, much like his cherished records from artists such as Jimi Hendrix, Gato Barbieri, Dizzy Gillespie, as a struggle against inner demons. “I delve into the shadows within me,” he explains. “I’m drawn to confront the darker elements that surface in my dreams and subconscious.” He probes further, exploring these aspects more intensely.

On “Dream Manifest”, he is constantly wrestling with his ego as any genuine creative often does. This isn’t about thinking he’s fantastic. Instead, it’s about resisting conformity and the urge to produce music like everyone else does. He’s not making music to gain popularity or fit a certain playlist. He’s not creating music to please the label. Rather, he is focused on producing music that allows him to delve into his deeper self; the turmoil he experienced growing up, his personal struggles with his parents, issues that many people face, and his upbringing, as well as things he has had to unlearn. Additionally, he is addressing broader societal issues, such as how people treat each other, how governments treat their citizens, and the flaws in various societies.

In creating this album, he opted to delve into his dreams, inner struggles, and creative spirit by immersing himself in introspection. He admits that he was likely under the influence of psychedelic mushrooms throughout the recording process as it made him open and truthful with himself.

In every place I perform, whether near or far from America, people seem to desire an authentic, present experience. It’s not about the fame or social media aspect for them; it’s about living in the moment. As he discovered during his worldwide travels, audiences want to feel connected and engaged with the performer. He explains this by saying, “I’ve found that wherever I go and play, people want to experience something genuine on stage.

This year, Croker reaches the milestone of 40, and it’s accurate to say that with age comes not only maturity but also knowledge. A significant portion of this knowledge stems from his understanding, which applies to music (much like many aspects of life), that simplicity often yields more impact. He has come to understand that flaunting one’s skills isn’t always necessary.

He points out that when artists are still young and starting out, they often create work intended for other artists. Now, however, his focus is on engaging listeners and immersing them in the music. He’s less concerned with impressing them musically or showcasing technique. Instead, he values musical aspects like improvisation and beautiful execution less than before.

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2025-03-19 21:01

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