When you look at classic US instrumental bands like the Legendary Roots Crew, Fugees or even, quite favourites, Digable Planets you start to wonder: with such a talented music pool in recent times when a UK band of such potential quality will appear and delight. Hailing from vibrant Brixton, The Illersapiens are one such crew demonstrating all the right ingredients to carry that clout.

We can pluck all the comparisons we like but at the end of the day it won’t take away the obvious: The Illersapiens are uniquely individualistic in sound. A fusion of experiences from the multicultural metropolis where they play and reside, they bring all the best bits of Reggae, Jazz, Hip-Hop, Break Beat and even dance elements like House and Drum n Bass. The South London 7-piece vibrant collective made up of rapper Mr Man and vocalist Katie Brien are a group quickly making their mark, gaining hoards of followers along the way. You just have to absorb the atmosphere at one of their underground gigs to taste the frenzy of mass appeal they orchestrate.

Their debut release, Elevate EP, is a sizable electrifying window into the group’s charismatic music. Velocity and thought provoking lyrics from Mr Man on tracks like romantic ‘Sweetness’ and home inspired ‘Brixton’ fuse perfectly with Brian’s sweet harmonies, further shepherding the explosive energy-tastic sounds of the rest of the band. Amongst the 5 wonders it’s difficult to choose a stand out, but if pushed dusty summer inspired ‘Ina Daze’ or the hypnotic rapid tap tap of ‘Bap Bap’ touch new nerves. A great purchase.

Words Ali Raymond
Buy Elevate EP