Mike Cooper is an eclectic and innovative British musician, renowned for his explorations in a variety of genres that span folk, blues, improvisational jazz, and electronic music, with a particular emphasis on Hawaiian lap steel guitar and ambient soundscapes. Cooper's career, which spans over half a century, has seen him evolve from a folk-blues troubadour in the 1960s to a restless and intrepid musical explorer. He has carved a unique niche in the avant-garde music scene, often incorporating field recordings, live electronics, and elements of exotica into his work, creating sound narratives that echo diverse global cultures and environmental themes.

Cooper's prolific and adventurous output is reflected in a wide body of work, with recent releases such as "Milan Live Acoustic 2018", capturing the intimacy and spontaneity of his live performances, and albums like "Rayon Hula (15th Anniversary Edition)" that showcase his ability to blend hypnotic loops with the warmth of Hawaiian melodies. His fascination with cinematic sound is evident in projects such as "Cane Fire (OST)", which serves as a film soundtrack. Other works like "Playing With Water" and "Kiribati" reveal his concern with climate change and its effects on Pacific communities, often infused with an experimental twist that transports listeners to the remote and sometimes endangered locales that inspire him. Cooper remains a vital figure in contemporary experimental music, continuously pushing boundaries and engaging audiences with his aural voyages.

Genres

Drone Folk

Experimental Guitar

Pastoral

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Tiny Ruins

Latest Release

Slow Motion Lightning

Mike Cooper

Album - 9 Tracks - Released November 8, 2024