Soothsayers have been in their SW2 studio producing their own wide reaching sonic reflection of the locality which draws together the local raw materials of 24 carat dub, afro-beat, and deep-funk in compelling style. Influences include The Wailers, Fela, Lee ‘Scratch’ Perry, Skatalites, The Specials, Masakela, Roots Manuva, Massive Attack, King Tubby.
The skeletons of tunes have been tried and tested in their legendary bi-monthly “Red Earth Collective” Effra session, Brixton’s hang out for musicians and music lovers and this has built Soothsayers music a dedicated local following. They have also proved that their immediate, uplifting energy travels well and a broad musical appeal has taken them gigging with their regular 7 piece band throughout the UK and Europe including massive festivals like Glastonbury, Rototom Reggae (Italy) and North Sea Jazz (Netherlands). As a live experience, fiery, soulful vocal chants, conquering horns, fat, heavy grooves and a line –up of astonishingly talented musicians produce a memorable, afro-inspired, dub-fuelled, dance-inducing experience.
“Thrilling harmonies…seriously infectious dance-floor grooves…goose bump inducing vocals” The Guardian
The core band features Robin Hopcraft (trumpet/vocals), Idris Rahman (sax/vocals), Zoe Rahman (keyboard), Julia Biel (vocals), Kodjovi Kush (bass/vocals), Patrick Illingworth (drums), and Phil Dawson/Derek Johnson (guitars).
