Cleveland's Big Hoke Draws from Variety of Influences on New Album

Big Hoke’s Justin Gorski. Credit: Courtesy of Justin Gorski

Drawing from New Orleans jazz and early rock ‘n’ roll, the locally based 10-piece Big Hoke has returned with its latest album, this, right now. It celebrates the album’s release with a show on Saturday, June 7, at Forest City Brewery.

Led by songwriter, arranger, singer and pianist Justin Gorski, Big Hoke recorded the album in the summer of 2024 at Suma Recording Studio in Painesville with producer/engineer Dave Shaw. The album’s singles, “Another Thing Coming” and “Going Down,” showcase the group’s jazz- and zydeco-inspired sounds.

“‘This, right now.’ is the culmination of years of hard work and dedication to the craft,” says Gorski in a press release. “We’re thrilled to share this album with our fans and introduce our unique sound to new listeners. This is truly the best album Big Hoke has released to date.”

The album release show will feature opening act Gabriel Xavier and the Moon Roses. Doors open at 7 p.m.

“We can’t wait to bring the energy and excitement of ‘this, right now.’ to the stage,” says Gorski. “This album is a celebration of our roots, our city and the power of music to bring people together.”

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