Since early 2001, the Pennsylvania rock band/enigma that is THE ILLUMINATI, has been breaking the boundaries of modern music classification with their sonic collage of alternative/indie rock, psychedelia, punk, funk, British rock, reggae, fusion, and more. The band manages to steal influence equally from artists as diverse as Pink Floyd, the Talking Heads, the Flaming Lips, the Clash, David Bowie, the Cure, Tool, Neil Young, the Stones, Iggy Pop, Pearl Jam, the Smiths, Al Green, Cake, U2, Metallica, the Pixies, Hendrix, System of a Down, Parliament, the Doors, RHCP, Alicia Keys, Alice in Chains, and many others -- while still maintaining their signature sound. Confused? Read on!

Despite constant pressure and criticism from industry "professionals" to limit their sound to a single, more easily digestable genre (i.e. post punk, Brit pop, etc), The Illuminati continues to unapologetically follow their own path. "We are in no way influenced by one single style of music and our material inherently reflects that" says frontman, Stephen Musti. "We do not, and will not, adhere to the confines that most groups traditionally obey" he adds, referring to such taboo characteristics as multiple lead singers, political subject matter, and an unpredictable variety of moods. The Illuminati's vast repertoire runs the emotional gamut from humorous and cynical to dark and powerful.

The Illuminati's electric, socio-politically charged live show has graced stages throughout the Mid-Atlantic US at such cutting edge venues as the Grape St. Pub in Philly, Le Bar Bat in NYC, the 8X10 in Baltimore, Dragonfly Nightclub in Harrisburg, and the 9:30 in D.C. The new full-length disc, Love and War, and 2003's EP, Because illustrates the Illuminati's noble intent to cover as much sonic ground as possible and has been heralded nationally by publications including Origivation Magazine, Rockpile, Auralgasm, the Patriot News, Fly Magazine, and PA Musician. The recordings can be purchased at CDBaby.com, select PA and MD Coconut's and FYE stores, all CD Warehouse locations, and at all live performances.

STEPHEN MUSTI (SANCHINO) Vox/Gtr/Kybd -- Email Steve
Although I have been writing music since I was 19, it wasn't until about 1997 that my songs began to contain real meaning and substance. Inspiration came to me in one of the most improbable places--school. I had gone back to college to study communications and was required to take Government and Politics 101 and 201. The class interested me enough for me to change my major and my life. Sometime later that year I acquired a copy of Against Empire by Michael Parenti and was amazed by what I had read.

It's hard to believe that a "civilized" nation like the US can allow our corporations to exploit the wealth, resources, and labor of second and third world countries. In the name of democracy (which is the new term for global capitalism), our government financially, militarily, and politically forces the world's people into economic servitude, with little or no mention by the American "liberal" press. The truth is not what we want to hear.

Martin Luther King Jr. stated shortly before his assassination that "a man who has not found something he is willing to die for is not fit to live." Through words, actions, and music, I continue to fight for international and domestic social and economic justice and I urge you to join me by educating yourself and voting -- for your own sake and that of the entire world. The leaders (and I use that word very loosely) of this great nation have perverted the Constitution and our laws to benefit large multi-national corporations and themselves. Only through peaceful activism and revolution can we take back our country and reinstate govenment by, of, and for the people. The time to act is yesterday! Please check out the organizations that we have listed on our links page for more information. Peace.

AARON HOKE (A-HO) Gtr/Kybd --
Email Aaron
HeyOOO! It all started with piano lessons when I was 6 years old...12 years later I picked up an acoustic guitar and I haven't been able to stop playing music since. I have a Bachelor's in Business Management Major from Penn State, with concentrations in Information Systems. However, my collegiate career started out as an American History major, hence my interest in American economics and other social issues. Americans have a right to know how politicians are reacting to wealthy, corporate campaign contributions and demoralizing our great nation.

For those who are interested in more musical stuff! I play a Taylor acoustic, BC Rich Exclusive, Fender Telecaster, and when I am playing bass, I use an Ibanez Sound Gear. I am also way into pro audio gear. God Bless.