Local Musician and Fisherman is Ready to Break Out
Hooking the Crowd
Local Artists: Lucas Holmgren
By Dennis McNabb, Contributing Writer
Local musician Lucas Holmgren is on the verge of becoming the newest Northwest singer/songwriter to break onto the scene. Although his name may already sound familiar due to his ubiquitous presence as a fishing personality on TV, magazines, and the “Addicted Fishing” Youtube channel, this multi-talented multi-instrumentalist is currently in the process of writing and recording an EP of original songs that will undoubtedly land him on the Folk/Rock map right alongside other popular contemporary acoustic songwriter acts such as Gregory Alan Isakov, John Mayer, and Morgan Wallen.
I had the distinct pleasure of speaking with Lucas for the purpose of this article, and found both his passion and enthusiasm inspirational. A dedicated student of music, he began playing at the age of 12. Diligent in his practice, he began recording at 14, teaching lessons at 15, and playing the local circuit shortly thereafter. Currently a member of multiple local touring and recording bands (Shofar Sound as well as The Bumala Brothers), Lucas has proven himself time and again to be the quintessential performer. Both bands are collaborative efforts and have provided Lucas the platform to hone his skills, enjoy the musical chemistry and camaraderie inherent in that kind of environment and get some exposure along the way. That said, he’s ready to break out and start assembling a catalog of his own original tunes. Fortunately, as readers of this magazine, you’ll be among the first exposed to what will surely become new classics of the genre!
Lucas is a phenomenal guitar player. Watch any of his Youtube videos, and that will be readily apparent. What elevates him as an artist, however, is that he is also a very accomplished vocalist, bass player, and drummer! And, if his latest singles, “The Real You” and “Get Myself Right” are any indication, he’s also a fantastic songwriter. With beautiful hooky melodies, haunting vocals, profound lyrics, and crystal-clear production, these are songs that transcend genre and can be enjoyed by all. Lucas warned that most of the current videos on his channel are loose and improvisational. They were fun to make but they are not representative of his current direction. “Good songwriting is at the heart of all great music,” he said, and with the concerted effort he’s put into these new songs, he’s hoping to reach a whole new audience.
And there’s no reason why he shouldn’t find overwhelming success. Lucas is tremendously talented and these new songs are undeniable. He also happens to be about the nicest guy you’ll ever meet. He relentlessly encourages and supports other aspiring musicians, and is the consummate mentor. With this new endeavor, he simply hopes to develop his own craft and take it to the next level. So, if you enjoy modern blues pop with a country flair, or if you simply enjoy great music guaranteed to plaster a smile on your face, you owe it to yourself to check out Lucas Holmgren. Find him: @lucasholmgrenmusic on Youtube.