Formed in 1990 as a piano/bass/drum trio playing the compositions of pianist Michael Sokolowski, Soko (formerly, "Third Ear") was, in a sense, a proto-jam band, exploring far-flung improvisation via jazz-influenced rock instrumentals.

The band (Sokolowski, with Houston Ross & Johnny Gilmore on bass and drums, respectively) worked relentlessly, honing a sophisticated ensemble rapport where set lists and stock arrangements weren't needed and the trio felt free to disappear into the rabbit hole of the moment, musically reinventing itself every night and developing a strong relationship with its audience. For six years, it remained an underground or "best kept secret" kind of band within a very exciting and creatively fertile Charlottesville music scene. When hitting the road, Soko never failed to turn enthusiastic new listeners on to its fresh and compelling melodic grooves. Many artists sat in with the band, including many appearances by saxophonist LeRoi Moore, Stickist Greg Howard, percussionist Darrell Rose, and guitarist Tim Reynolds.

Piano, Violin, Percussion, Compositions / Michael Sokolowski
Bass, Guitar, Percussion, Compositions/ Houston Ross
Drums / Nir Zidkyahu