Ibibio Sound Machine

Ibibio Sound Machine is a UK group led by British-Nigerian singer Eno Williams. Based in London, they combine West African highlife with disco, post-punk, psychedelic electro-soul and related electronic and funk influences. Their sound also draws on folk stories Williams hears from her family in her mother’s south-eastern Nigerian Ibibio language, which shape the lyrics and ideas of their debut album.

Formation and line-up

The group starts with producers Max Grunhard, Leon Brichard and Benji Bouton working with Eno Williams. The recorded line-up includes Alfred Kari Bannerman on guitar, Anselmo Netto on percussion, Leon Brichard on bass and synth, Benji Bouton on drums and keyboards, Max Grunhard on alto sax, Tony Hayden on trombone and synth, Scott Baylis on trumpet, and Ben Hadwen on baritone sax. The verified line-up also includes Marilyn David, John McKenzie and Jose Joyette.

Style and influences

The band’s music brings together highlife, electro, electro-funk, disco and psychedelic elements. It is described through a mix of African and London influences, with room for vocals and guitar lines alongside bass-heavy electronics. Their arrangements move between dance-oriented songs and more spiritual, gospel-tinged material.

Debut material and live work

Their debut album is associated with Soundway Records. Tracks named in connection with the album include “Let’s Dance” and “Voice of the Bird”. The group makes its official live debut at Transmusicales in France and performs as an eight-piece live band.

Members

The group members are Alfred Kari Bannerman, Scott Baylis, Marilyn David, Max Grunhard, Tony Hayden, Jose Joyette, John McKenzie, Anselmo Netto and Eno Williams.