With his solo repertoire forged in his two-volume mixtape (released in 2007 and 2008 respectively), Illy marches forward as the new voice in Generation Now hip hop. A writer, a lyrical activist, an observer, and a poet, he treks through the global jigsaw with firm optimism and understanding of its rollercoaster nature. Influenced by a kaleidoscope of artists from Nas to Bob Marley, Biggie to Bob Dylan, the 23-year-old MC boasts a spitfire flow, both youthful and intelligent but ripe with attitude; complimenting his world-traversing musical vision. A vision he calls a privilege, the act of creating art meaningful to complete strangers. Having shared the rush of performing live with Bliss n Eso, Phrase, Spit Syndicate, and Dialectrix to name some, his aural journey takes the next step with the debut of his full length album, Long Story Short. Tales, tribulations and tributes to the nature of his youth, his culture, and the inevitable questions faced. He is the heart and soul of the underdog, the future flag-bearer of a much maligned generation. Stream tunes: http://www.myspace.com/illyal Long Story Short hits stores May 16th, 2009. |
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