The album, Cook, isn’t just a nod to Lettuce’s musical heat; it’s an invitation to join the band at the table, where funk, soul, jazz, rock, and hip-hop come together in one rich, flavorful dish.

For these six life-long partners: Adam Deitch (drums), Adam “Shmeeans” Smirnoff (guitar), Erick “Maverick” Coomes (bass), Ryan “Zoid” Zoidis (saxophones, synths), Eric “Benny” Bloom (trumpet), and Nigel Hall (vocals, keyboards), Cook marks a bold expansion of their ever-widening musical palette. Released on their own Lettuce Records label, the album arrives on the heels of tours with rap icon GZA of Wu-Tang Clan and reggae legend Ziggy Marley, as well as the release of their live album and concert film Lettuce with the Colorado Symphony. Still, there’s a generous dose of Lettuce’s signature funk throughout paying homage to James Brown and the JB’s while honoring longtime mentors like Tower of Power and Maceo Parker.

More than just a figurative title, Cook debuts alongside Lettuce Red Crush and Orange Crush wines in collaboration with Aquila Cellars, plus a limited-edition recipe book of pairings included with the vinyl and digital release.

With Cook, the band feels like their concepts and ideas can come to fruition with an innovative team and devout fan base behind them—they’re in a fresh new headspace ready to savor a new chapter.

The Missoula Symphony Orchestra and Chorale has delivered unique, live symphonic and choral music to Western Montana since 1954. Locals and visitors of all ages and backgrounds attend our concerts, from our first-time symphony goers to our dedicated sponsors and community members.

Now, under the leadership of our new Music Director, Julia Tai, we have expanded our offerings even more. Our outreach and education program continues to provide scholarships to University of Montana music students and educational activities in regional public schools.

Every staff member, board member, artistic director and musician plays a vital role in making the Missoula Symphony possible. Meet the people behind the powerful and memorable musical experiences we bring to Western Montana.

“We’re so excited to work with Logjam on our second annual “Symphony on the River” this summer! It’s always a joy to work with musicians of different genres, and I’m sure our collaboration with the funk band Lettuce will create an unforgettable evening of music blending hip-hop, jazz, R&B, and rock with the powerful sound of a symphony orchestra!”