Just Jazz Bio:

Just Jazz was formed in 2003 by Luke Rackers, and Chris Braddock. Over the last two years they have played throughout the state of Missouri, and released two CDs. Now in college Luke and Chris continue to pursue careers in music, and perform shows as often as possible.

Luke Rackers Bio:

        Luke Rackers, pianist, currently attends the Lamont School of Music at the University of Denver where he studies under jazz pianist Eric Gunnison, pianist Alice Rybak, and jazz vocalist Daonna Wickman in route to earn a Bachelor of Music degree in Jazz performance and Music Technology. Luke grew up in Taos Missouri and started playing the piano around age 8. He began taking jazz lessons in high school under the jazz pianist Ken Kehner. Jazz pianists that currently influence his playing consist of Herbie Hancock, Oscar Peterson, Chick Corea, Bud Powell, Bill Evans, and Dave McKenna. Groups he has performed with include the Just Jazz Duo and Trio, Jazz 101, the Lamont Jazz Ensemble and various Lamont Jazz Combos.

Chris Braddock Bio:

        Chris Braddock, bassist, currently attends the Kansas City Conservatory of Music at the University of Missouri Kansas City where he studies under Bobby Watson, Dan Thomas, Bram Wijnands, James Mobberley, Gerald Spaitz, and Zhou Long in route to a degree in Music Composition. Chris grew up in Jefferson City and began playing music at a young age starting with the clarinet and euphonium. Upon reaching junior high Chris took up the bass in order to play in the school jazz band. Once in high school Chris received the honor of twice being selected to the All-District Jazz Band, and was part of the Helias rhythm section (director: Ray Cardwell) which received first place honors in national competition. Since then he has gone on to play in such ensembles as Just Jazz, and played at various jazz venues across the Kansas City area.

Copyright 2005 Just Jazz