Biography:

Marke (silent ‘e’), from Des Plaines, IL, first began playing the viola at age 8, followed by piano at age 12, drums at 16 (although known to bang on various household things since 5), and guitar at 19. He has always sung throughout his life, whether in the bathroom, in the car, in church, and, later, onstage. Marke was recruited to his first band six months after receiving his first drum set, and was recording albums that same day. After graduating from high school, he helped found Spiney Norman, a progressive/psychedelic rock combo. They later became Mosquitohead, who became well-known in and around Chicago for their long, improvised jams as well as their short, concise pop songs. In college Marke continued to study percussion with famed jazz drummer Jake Jerger at Oakton Community College, where he was given a music performance scholarship. In 1994 he co-founded Thunk and they too achieved notoriety around Chicago, at which time he moved to bass. Around this time Marke, who had previously experimented with poetry and short stories, began writing songs. His writing showcases a profound melodic sense over several genres, including rock, folk, metal and blues, with solid hooks and soaring choruses providing the frosting on a poetic yet timely lyrical cake. All the while the acoustic guitar, with its ability to whisper as well as roar, has been Marke’s main instrument. Influences include Neil Young, Pete Townshend, George Harrison and Jim Croce. Taking vocal lessons with renowned vocal and life coach Wendy Hart established a newfound confidence in his singing ability. Marke recently began playing drums again, playing with Labrador Dali as well as with Phil Circle, The Hawk In October (now Left Turn at Albuquerque), Jack Salamander, Kristin Kelly, Kris Nichols and Marlon St. John, Ruby Harris, and French Finnish. His only release to date has been the EP "A Sound Seen Distant", but is currently at work on a new full-length album he hopes to be completed by the end of the year. Check him out at www.marke-lester.com, as well as on Facebook and MySpace.