The Zoo Human Project

Artist Information

Biography

THE ZOO HUMAN PROJECT (ZHP) is comprised of three friends: Derek Martinez, Jen Cordero, and Kevin Sakamoto. Formed in Los Angeles, they decided to quit their full-time jobs and tour nationally to promote their first album, "Innominata" (released 2006). Much to their delight, they made it back to California with enough cash to fund their second album, "Naissance" (released 2007).

ZHP’s tunes are a frenetic blend of dueling guitars, funky world percussion, and tight three-part harmonies. Sacramento Bee's music critic, Chris Macias, awarded them with SINGLE OF THE WEEK (song "NWT") - while Press Tribune's writer, Nathan Donato-Weinstein, published The Zoo Human Project as one of the CITY’S BEST MUSIC BETS. Their sincerest critical description comes from Travel Author J. Lustre: “… [ZHP’s music] shouldn't make any sense. Jen Cordero's vocal range and oomph are ripe for musical theater. Derek Martinez's acoustic-driven songs are reminiscent of Dave Matthews. And percussionist Kevin Sakamoto takes cues from African beats and funk. But the trio must be musical alchemists because in the end it DOES work..."

And so it does, according to independent radio stations and retail chains. Their songs continue to garner airplay across the country, including rotations on YAHOO! MUSIC'S LaunchCast Radio “The Coffeehouse” station (alongside Jason Mraz and Sara Bareilles). Meanwhile, “Innominata” and “Naissance” are distributed through select BORDERS BOOKS & MUSIC stores nationally. Perhaps they’re onto something new… something different. How did it all begin?

Derek adorned his childhood with years of eclectic musical exposure such as The Beatles, Santana, and Pearl Jam. He played in different bands during high school, plus Drumline and Jazz Band – and later won the Las Vegas TV-talent series “StarCaster Live!” (BEST MALE VOCALIST). While finishing his Recording Arts degree from USC, Martinez released a solo album (“PileUP”) – revealing his flawless attention to detail, from songwriting to engineering and production. He deftly weaves percussive riffs and brings poignant lyrics to the forefront of ZHP’s music.

Jen was influenced by genres her older brother listened to: a dissecting array of Broadway musicals, Hip Hop, and Urban AC. Songwriting began in her early twenties, along with learning how to play guitar from a “wonderful book with pictures!” She also won the Las Vegas TV-talent series “StarCaster Live!” (BEST FEMALE VOCALIST), and featured in the showcase “SOCAL’S BEST UNSIGNED TALENT”. Her Biology degree from USC lends no help with music theory, but Cordero’s natural ear for soaring melodies (and compulsive desire for structure) helps color, define, and amplify ZHP’s elusive sound.

Kevin’s journey began as a child; years of piano lessons heavily ingrained him with musical rhetoric, and a passion for beats blossomed from watching his brother play drums. He dabbled in several garage bands and flourished as Section Leader of his Drumline at Oakmont High School. By developing the uncanny ability to make ANY surface drum-able, he now makes his own line of Cajons. Sakamoto’s influences include Chad Sexton, Keith Moon, and Carter Beauford – but he brings to ZHP a very distinct rhythmic flair all on his own, one that he extends to many affluent bands in Northern California.

Three roots, one bloom: The Zoo Human Project. They successfully performed three national tours, completely self-booked and marketed grassroots-style. By doubling their profits each consecutive tour through increased merchandise sales and venue guarantees, they understand first-hand what it takes to be thriving, entrepreneurial musicians. Giving back to the community through charities and benefits are also vitally important to them, contributing to: SUSAN G. KOMEN FOUNDATION, LEUKEMIA & LYMPHOMA SOCIETY, AMERICAN CANCER SOCIETY, and various academic scholarship funds.

This unsigned acoustic trio continues to saturate various college markets throughout the US (COLUMBIA, SCRIPPS, SONOMA STATE, UC DAVIS, UC IRVINE, and more). Their live shows are polished from hundreds of performances – layered with intense energy, fun banter with the crowd, and connecting with fans of all ages through music. They are currently sponsored by DICKIES CLOTHING, and recently performed their unique version of the NATIONAL ANTHEM at ARCO ARENA to over 12,000 people for a Sacramento Kings game.

The Zoo Human Project is now recording their third album release in Sacramento, CA. Please check their ongoing concert schedule to catch a show near you!

PERFORMANCE HISTORY:
LOS ANGELES, CA
Anaheim Stadium
Banana Boat Room
Nucleus Art Gallery
C&D's Welcome Cafe
CBS Studios - MacDay LA
Café Europe
Genghis Cohen
Highland Grounds
House of Blues
Karma Coffeehouse
King King's
Lava Lounge
Rainbow Room
Room 5
Synergy Cafe
Scripps College
The Derby
The Dragonfly
The Joint
The Key Club
The Knitting Factory
The Roxy
UC Irvine
University of Southern California
Viper Room
Whiskey A Go-Go
Borders Books & Music Tour:
Brea
Costa Mesa
Yorba Linda
Chino Hills
Pico Rivera

SACRAMENTO, CA
20th Street Gallery
American Legion Hall
Arco Arena
Barrett's Coffee Bar
Butch N Nellie's
Cafe Refugio
Coffee Garden
Fox & Goose
It's A Grind
Java Lounge
Log Cabin Concert Series
Marilyn's on K
MARRS
Old Ironsides
Pyramid Alehouse
SacBrew's Oasis
Sacramento Brewing Company
Sierra Roasting Company
The Artisan
The Club Car
UC Davis
Weatherstone Faire
Borders Books & Music Tour:
Davis
Elk Grove
Sacramento
Galleria
Natomas
Roseville

BAY AREA, CA
A'roma Roasters
Beale Street Bar & Grill
Bazaar Cafe
Brainwash
Café Noto
Canvas Gallery
Coastside Farmers Market
Coffee Adventures
Coffee to the People
Del Monte Square Courtyard (The Cannery)
Mama Buzz
Hotel Utah
Red Vic Sessions
Sonoma State University
Stanford University
Starry Plough
Borders Books & Music Tour:
Milpitas
San Ramon
Santana Row

LAS VEGAS, NV
First Friday's Artfest
ReJavanate

RENO, NV
Electronic Espresso
Borders Books & Music in:
Reno
Carson City

SAN DIEGO, CA
E Street Café
Java Jones

SEATTLE, WA
Crossroads
Rainbow Room
Snoqualmie Taproom
Trabant Chai Lounge
Borders Books & Music Tour:
Tacoma
Redmond
Lynnwood
Everett
Union Gap
Spokane

BOISE, ID
Flying M Coffee Garage
Pengilly's Saloon
Rembrandts
Satchel's Grill
Western Idaho Fair
Borders Books & Music Tour:
Coeur d'Alene
Boise

DENVER/BOULDER, CO
Great Divide Brewery
Rock 'N Soul Cafe
Borders Books & Music, Lone Tree

LINCOLN, NE
Crescent Moon
Meadowlark Cafe
Scooters

KANSAS CITY, MO
Californos
Starbucks
Borders Books & Music, Kansas City

ST. LOUIS, MO
The Shanti
Venice Cafe

CHICAGO, IL
Beans & Books
Bird's Nest Bar
Blue Max Coffeehouse
Heartland Cafe
Red Line Tap
Uncommon Ground
Borders Books & Music Tour:
Chicago
Naperville
La Grange
Matteson

HIGHLAND, IN
Borders Books & Music

NEW YORK, NY
169 Bar
Acoustic Long Island
Banjo Jim's
Columbia University (Postcrypt)
Desmond's Tavern
Kenny's Castaway
Sweet & Vicious
The Living Room
The Lucky Cat

NEW BRUNSWICK, NJ
Cafe Arabica Hookah Lounge
Here's To The Arts
Borders Books & Music Tour:
Watchung
East Brunswick

WILMINGTON, NC
Juggling Gypsy Cafe
Folks Cafe Javacoustics

NASHVILLE, TN
Bluebird Cafe
Douglas Corner Cafe

ATLANTA, GA
106 West
Drip Drop Cafe
Eddie's Attic
Lil River Grill
Sweetwater Brewing Co
The 7 Venue


FESTIVALS & CHARITIES
"ROCK FOR A CURE"
Benefit for Breast Cancer, UC Irvine & Susan G. Komen Foundation (Irvine, CA)

"RELAY FOR LIFE"
American Cancer Society (Roseville, CA)

"UC DAVIS 93rd ANNUAL PICNIC DAY"
UC Davis campus (Davis, CA)

"WESTERN IDAHO FAIR"
Expo Idaho Fairgrounds (Boise, ID)

"ALL DAY ACOUSTIC FESTIVAL"
106 West (Winder, GA)

"TWIN TOWERS BENEFIT"
University of Southern California (Los Angeles, CA)

"DEBORAH MARTINEZ MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP FUNDRAISER"
Borders Books & Music (Roseville, CA)

"MARY BOYER: CANCER SURVIVOR" BENEFIT @ AMERICAN LEGION HALL
American Cancer Society (Sacramento, CA)

"WILDLIFE ASSOCIATES BENEFIT CONCERT"
(Half Moon Bay, CA)

"SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA'S BEST UNSIGNED TALENT"
King King's (Hollywood, CA)

"DON'T CALL US TORI" SHOWCASE
Karma Coffeehouse (Hollywood, CA)

“FIRST FRIDAYS ARTFEST”
Land Rover Stage (Las Vegas, NV)

"SOUNDS OF SAC" MUSIC SERIES
Powerhouse Pub (Folsom, CA)



RADIO:
WCOM – 103.5 FM (Carrboro, NC)
WHCL – 88.7 FM (Clinton, NY)
KVYN - 99.3 FM (Napa, CA)
KC CAFE - www.kccaferadio.com (Kansas City, MO)
INDIE104 - www.iradiola.com (Los Angeles, CA)
BANANA PEEL RADIO - www.bananapeelradio.com (Vancouver, Canada)
iTunes #1 Acoustic Podcast – “Acoustic Long Island”
iTunes Alternative Radio – “Indie Airplay”
YAHOO! Music’s LaunchCast Radio – “The Coffeehouse” station



TV:
"STARCASTER LIVE!" show, FEMALE VOCALIST WINNER: JEN CORDERO (Las Vegas, NV)
"STARCASTER LIVE! show, MALE VOCALIST WINNER: DEREK MARTINEZ (Las Vegas, NV)
"ACOUSTIC ECLECTIC FESTIVAL", WCTV12 (Winder, GA)

"NATIONAL ANTHEM" - Sacramento Kings Game (2009)




**CURRENTLY SPONSORED BY DICKIES CLOTHING COMPANY**

Instrumentation

Jen Cordero - Vocals, Acoustic Guitar
Derek Martinez - Vocals, Acoustic Guitar
Kevin Sakamoto - Vocals, Percussion Set

Discography

Album #1 - "Innominata" - released June 2006
Album #2 - "Naissance" - released August 2007

Audio

• Welcome Home
  Listen  
• Let Me In
  Listen  
• Naissance
  Listen  
• Duality
  Listen  
• NWT
  Listen  
• Seizure
  Listen  

Lyrics

• Welcome Home
• Let Me In
• Naissance
• NWT
• Duality

Video

Photo Gallery

Press

• “SINGLE OF THE WEEK – THE ZOO HUMAN PROJECT” [+ Show ]
  

  The Zoo Human Project is a trio by way of Roseville that's led by the husband-wife team of Derek Mar...The Zoo Human Project is a trio by way of Roseville that's led by the husband-wife team of Derek Martinez and Jen Cordero. But their song, "NWT," takes a peek at the two before they settled into marriage and wondered if they'd be better off as friends. The song about relationship jitters is full of strummy acoustic guitars and percussion.
  
  THE ZOO HUMAN PROJECT
  Song: "NWT"
  
  Style: Acoustic rock that's suited for a coffeehouse or the club.
  
  Members: Derek Martinez , Jen Cordero (both on vocals/guitar), Kevin Sakamoto (percussion/vocals)
  
  Influences: "There's a clear Dave Matthews influence to our guitar parts," says Martinez. "My wife is more inspired by independent singer-songwriters. She's definitely a fan of Ani DiFranco."
  
  Behind the song: "Jen and I, before we started dating, we were really good friends," he says. "It was that whole 'Ross and Rachel' thing. That's the easiest way to describe it. We were expressing the fear we both shared of going into that new phase. So the verses aren't very optimistic. But the chorus is celebrating the fact that it's working."
  
  On the Web: www.thezhp.com

• “CITY’S BEST BETS – MUSIC SECTION: THE ZOO HUMAN PROJECT” [+ Show ]
  

  The Zoo Human Project returns to Roseville to give a performance at Borders Books and Music before t...The Zoo Human Project returns to Roseville to give a performance at Borders Books and Music before they leave for their next tour. The event will take place at 6 p.m. today at Borders Books and Music, 2030 Douglas Blvd. The free event is open to all ages. The Zoo Human Project is an acoustic rock/soul trio that originated in Los Angeles and is the winner of the Las Vegas television series "StarCaster Live!" They recently finished recording their second album titled "Naissance" and will take pre-orders at the show.

• "NEW AND IMPROVED!" [+ Show ]
  

  I'm going to be totally honest here. I listened to their two albums in order. As the first one spun ...I'm going to be totally honest here. I listened to their two albums in order. As the first one spun I often thought, "Well that's not bad," or, "cool chord change," or "nice thing Jen did with her voice there." And then I put in the second and totally forgot about that sort of thing and listened to the whole album with barely a thought about sound quality, intonation, or any other kind of technical correctness. Naissance is really, REALLY good.
  
  First of all, both Derek and Jen took huge steps forward in their singing. She held on to her technique while sounding more genuine and soulful than before, and Derek improved technical stuff like range and intonation and control while still sounding like he mean it.
  
  The guitar work is just fantastic. It's this nice pyramid of simplicity, where the broad foundation is real comfortable, pleasant, basic stuff, and built on top are smaller and smaller layers of increasing complexity. And
  every now and then, there's a little lick or chord change that's totally amazing but still works.
  
  The percussionist sounds like a different guy. Is it? If not, he has my vote for most improved. He's helped, I imagine, by the writing itself, since on Innominata it feels like he was a special effect and an afterthought, while on Naissance he's as important, colorful, and interesting as the rest of the voices. The grooves are so organic, the pocket is deep and super-tight, the fancy stuff is fun and amazing but still tasteful, and that piece, "Seizure," was so good and so unexpected I think I smiled through the whole thing.
  
  On top of all the improvement in performances, the songwriting is incredibly organic now. Things are simple because they need to be or complex because they need to be--nothing is there just because it *can* be, or just to fill a void. Almost every note seems to have a purpose. I feel the lyrics are more refined, too. And the vocal collaboration between Derek and Jen is an order of magnitude more developed and natural and thorough.
  
  The recording quality deserves a mention, too, since it allows those wonderful details that are everywhere to shine through.
  
  I can't tell you enough how blown away I was by Naissance. It makes me want to hear Innominata get the same treatment--better technical performances, better recording, better collaboration. Not that it's bad at all, just that I think it pales next to Naissance. But that's what growing is all about, right? Congratulations on making one of my new favorite albums!
  

• “AUDITORY TENDRIL” [+ Show ]
  

  Straight from the outset, "Naissance" reaches out a tantalizing auditory tendril, beckoning the list...Straight from the outset, "Naissance" reaches out a tantalizing auditory tendril, beckoning the listener to come closer and listen. "NWT" is a toe-tapping, head-bobbing song guaranteed to have you singing along with the addictive chorus after only the first time hearing it. The lyrics (in trademark ZHP style) are both stylistically excellent and delivered with gusto, not just on "NWT" but throughout the entire album.
  
  The flagship song of the album, "Naissance", opens with a sugar-sweet guitar, accompanied by Kevin Sakamoto's skilled percussion. Soon, both Jen and Derek join in with their Yin-Yang-like vocal combinations, and before long, the listener is held tight in the hands of the song, jonesing like an addict for every coming syllable.
  
  Just like on their previous album, "Innominata", The Zoo Human Project weaves a musical tapestry unlike any other ever before; the only way to better experience the power and grace of the songs is to go see them performed live.

• “CLASSIC SOUND” [+ Show ]
  

  I've listened through the CD oh, maybe a dozen or so times in the couple of weeks since I received i...I've listened through the CD oh, maybe a dozen or so times in the couple of weeks since I received it, so you might guess, I really like it!
  
  There are a number of tracks that I'd call "traditional ZHP" (i.e., they are reminiscent of the material on Innominata), but to my mind, that's a good thing. I mean, if hearing one tune from you at Uncommon Ground was enough to bring me to a second show and to buy a CD, I must think it's good. And with more experience, I'd say you're honing that "classic" sound.
  
  But there are a few tracks in there that introduce some new sounds, and these are also quite strong. Whether it's the Barenaked Ladies-esque refrain in "Unsettled," the haunting ukulele accompaniment of "Naissance" (I assume that was the goal, and it worked!), or the piano stylings of, um, whoever handles the keys on "Let Me In" , I'm quite impressed with the new directions being introduced here. And that's not even to mention the intriguing "Seizure".
  
  Very nice work, folks. Very nice work indeed. Keep going, keep growing (that's dangerously close to the Moody Blues), and get your butts back to Chicago!

• "PEE YOUR OWN PANTS!” [+ Show ]
  

  Usually when someone introduces me to a crowd of listeners they use some accolades that always make ...Usually when someone introduces me to a crowd of listeners they use some accolades that always make me feel good and warm inside. Jen Cordero, gorgeous singer/guitar player/songwriter/Yogi for the Zoo Human Project , introduced me the other night when I sat in with the band and literally made me...well...really warm. It seems when I play I make Jen, Derek, and Kevin 'Pee Their Pants! Yowsir! That is an accolade!
  
  The Zoo Human Project is Jen Cordero, Derek Martinez, and Kevin Sakamoto. I met them last year when they were touring here from LA. And now they have been staying in the Sacramento Area and playing out quite a bit. They asked me a while back if I would sit in with them. I did, had a blast, and have done a few more shows with them since.
  
  They are a pleasure to play music with. They are all extremely talented, have great songs, and are one of the best rehearsed bands anywhere. It makes it so fine to play with people that have the passion, talent, and drive to make their music right and in the pocket. These guys are superb!
  
  Derek is a great guitar player mostly understated, but will throw out a riff that soars, and he has a wonderful voice and can sing like few others, lead or harmonies. Great songwriter too. Kevin, the drummer, as young as he is, is probably the finest hand-drummer I've played with. He's tasty, never too loud, always in the pocket, and like a freakin metronome. He graced me with his talents on a new recording of a song of mine that will be part of a Sacramento compilation record soon called Fresno. And Jen. Wet Pants and all, she is a wonderful singer, as well as great guitar player and songwriter. And definitely the beauty in this crowd.
  
  Check the Zoo Human Project out, but hurry, they are leaving to do some more traveling. They have a new record available too. it is fabulous too. We have talked and it looks like I will be recording some with them on the next record. Hope they have a washing machine and dryer in the studio.

• “WHAT MATTERS MOST” [+ Show ]
  

  In many ways, The Zoo Human Project's music shouldn't make any sense. Jen Cordero's vocal range and...In many ways, The Zoo Human Project's music shouldn't make any sense. Jen Cordero's vocal range and oomph are ripe for musical theater. Derek Martinez's acoustic driven songs are reminiscent of Dave Matthews. And percussionist Kevin Sakamoto takes cues from African beats and funk. But the trio must be musical alchemists because in the end it DOES work. It is this surprising and fresh confluence of elements that has drawn fans to their shows and lifted their offering, Innominata, above rank-and-file debuts.
  
  In their songs, the audience often finds inspiration. Listeners reconnect with a forgotten emotion or find commonness among strangers, triggering a bout of self-examination in which people begin to ponder the decisions they have made in their own lives. And perhaps too, The Zoo Human Project motivates these listeners to finally consider the bigger things in life they've been meaning to think about all along.

• “THE ZOO HUMAN PROJECT AT ACOUSTIC LI” [+ Show ]
  

  We’ve all been to zoos to see how animals live and interact. Now’s your chance to hear tonight’s thr...We’ve all been to zoos to see how animals live and interact. Now’s your chance to hear tonight’s three talented musicians interact in a self-described zoo of their own — The Zoo Human Project. Jen Cordero, Derek Martinez, and percussionist Kevin Sakamoto put together an intensely funky acoustic set reminiscent of Dave Matthews but with their own unique spin. Our favorites? The deeply personal “Get Out of My Head,” the hope-inspiring “Disease,” and “Songs to Drive To.” For more on this touring trio, go to myspace.com/thezoohumanproject.

Setlist

SINGLE BILL PERFORMANCES: ~ up to 3 HOURS.
(3 sets, w/two 10min breaks).

CO-BILL PERFORMANCES: ~30 to 90 min.

REPERTOIRE:
30+ Original songs
10+ Cover songs

Basic Requirements

Calendar