Love and War by The Illuminati

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The Illuminati launched in 2003 with the five-song EP, Because, and they released their debut full-length album, Love and War, in 2006. On display are the band’s technical and production talents as well as their ability to move seamlessly from one musical style to another, while always maintaining their immediately recognizable sound. Both recordings have received international acclaim and air play and their live performances have garnered regional attention.

The Illuminati is not trying to modernize 70's punk, regurgitate 80's new wave, or resurrect any other “retro” genres. They want to start something new and they believe that the American (and global) populace wants the same. Like them or not, few bands can legitimately profess the expansive repertoire and the distinctive vision that the illuminati inherently possesses.

The Illuminati was formed in September 2001 from the smoldering ashes of the critically acclaimed group, Alien Sphynx. Stephen Musti (vocals/guitar) and Dana DeLong (drums) hooked up with Mark Higgins (keys/vocals) to form the foundation of the band. By the year’s end, the lineup was cemented with the addition of Mathew Boyer (bass) and Aaron Hoke (guitar/keys).

Frontman, Stephen Musti has been playing guitar and writing songs since the age of fifteen. His performance style is naturally unique and defies classification. Steve’s influences include, but are in no way limited to Neil Young, Jimi Hendrix, the Clash, Pink Floyd, the Talking Heads, RHCP, Lou Reed, the Beatles, the Who, the Pixies, and the Smiths.

Dana DeLong, drummer for the Illuminati, has performed in bands with Steve since 1993. Together they have penned over seventy songs. Dana’s percussion work is often reminiscent of sixties and seventies era skinsmen such as Keith Moon, Noel Redding, John Bonham, and Bill Ward of Black Sabbath.

Keyboardist/vocalist, Mark Higgins, has been studying and playing the piano since the age of five. He has released material for over fifteen years under the name of Device. Mark considers the Cure, Depeche Mode, and Ministry to be his biggest influences.

Aaron Hoke, the youngest member of the band, plays the role of guitarist/keyboardist. His sparse, yet brilliant note selection adds depth to the Illuminati’s live and studio tracks.

Bassist, Mathew Boyer, was an original member of Alien Sphynx. His grooves solidify and congeal the songs. Mathew lists the Doors, Led Zeppelin, Janis Joplin, Pearl Jam, and Nirvana as jsut a few of his favorite bands

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