Lake Trout formed in 1994 as an improvisational instrumental jazz band. After securing a solid reputation on the local club circuit, vocalist Woody Ranere was added, resulting in a more traditional rock lineup and sound.

One of Baltimore’s true treasures is Lake Trout. No, not the deep-fried fish, but rather, the most talked about and beloved band based in Charm City. Arguably the most innovative band on the East Coast, and quite possibly in the U.S., Lake Trout incorporates live break beats and drum n’ bass elements with jazz, rock, and pop sensibilities for a captivating urban groove. An original and sophisticated sound that they like to call ‘Organica’; that is, a dance-floor groove rooted in the traditional live music presentation, but is not limited in concept or structure, subverting pre-conceived notions regarding musical boundaries. Lake Trout have created a truly unique genre-busting sound and vision that goes beyond the trappings of the standard rock n roll formula. The current Lake Trout sound evolved from their formation as a jazz ensemble. Exploring and remaining open to new music ideas they consciously seek to redefine and reshape their music, successfully transcending categorization, while sustaining a solid and expanding fan base. A growing reputation for their spirited improvisational live performances has led to Lake Trout being one of the East Coast’s most in demand live acts. They have performed alongside such diverse artists as Soul Coughing, John Scofield, Maceo Parker, Sugar Ray, Everlast, and Dieselboy.