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Ill
Scarlett has been making music since the spring of 2001. A filthy brand of dub meets punk, meets reggae all wrapped up in
a very accessible pop-package. Envision something like Sublime meets Rx Bandits if you will. With this formula they have become
one of Southern Ontario's most popular unsigned talents, **playing nearly 300 shows over the past three years.** This is mainly
due to the fact that unlike most local area bands, Ill Scarlett has managed to tap into an uncharted market, attracting many
fans that otherwise have no involvement with the underground scene. The illmaniacs are loyal and undying and have nearly become
as well known as the band themselves. The 2004 release of their first full-length, 'iLLP', is sure to have more than just
the local scene taking notice. As Ill Scarlett's fourth release, it masterfully demonstrates where the band has come from
and where they intend to go. A perfect split of previously released favorites as well as their most recent works, recorded
at The Music Gym in Burlington and budgeted by the members independently. The official release party was held in Toronto at
The 360 Club, and with just modest promotion, it still managed to sell out **the 400+ capacity.** Attendees included the over
120 kids who packed onto the two free school buses the band funded themselves. Many of whom had never seen a show downtown
before. In total, Ill Scarlett was able to generate more than $2000 in merch' and album sales that night. The five-piece,
who hail from various parts of Mississauga still call the borough of Clarkson home. It is there where singer Alex Norman and
drummer Swav Pior first realized the scope of their chemistry. A songwriting tandem that has since created such cult gems
as "Rally" and "Mary Jane" and also is responsible for assembling the all-star lineup that is Ill Scarlett. Bassist Dan K
was the first member added, later joined by lead guitarist Will Marr, a well-known local songwriter who had formerly been
playing with the punk outfit Might As Well. Most recently, the lineup was rounded out with the addition of DJ Pat Kennedy,
adding an exclamation point to the band's stellar dynamic. And the most astonishing fact is that all five members have writing
credits on the 'iLLP'. Dedicated to pushing their music as far as it will take them, Ill Scarlett's immediate plans include
extensive touring and the acquisition of distribution for the 'iLLP'. The time has come to see whether the music has what
it takes to inspire an audience beyond the familiar confines of the Southern Ontario music scene. Also currently in the works
is a DVD which will allow fans to actually take a piece of the live show home with them. As solid as the 'iLLP' is, it is
the positive energy and laidback vibe of the performance that has brought them to where they are now. This partnered with
the strength of the songwriting is what should have Ill Scarlett soon becoming a household name; regardless of where it is
you call home.
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