Animus is here to push the boundaries and borders of musics from all over the world. Over the years Animus has taken their fans on a continuously evolving live experience, away from the stress of everyday life and created a relaxing and fun musical journey, mesmerizing audiences throughout the East Coast with their unique style. Animus is available to perform at a variety of events, functions and venues.

Animus is an instrumental group of culturally diverse musical concepts. An original band, Animus incorporates many musical traditions, ancient and modern alike. Greek, Blues, Middle Eastern, Jazz, Spanish, Funk, Latin, Rock, Indian, Jewish Klezmer, African - Animus blends them all! The unorthodox instrumentation and unique original compositions excite the mind, body and soul. Their tight compositional arrangements, endless variety of grooves and tribal rhythms, coupled with spontaneous, passionate improvisation know no boundaries awaken the spirit to get everyone moving to the music. Each composition takes the listener on a unique journey, delving into the emotions of the human soul. In fact, Animus has been nominated for best Roots/World Music Performer 2000 - 2002 by The Philadelphia CityPaper.

Animus began in 1995 as an Acoustic duo founded by Bill Koutsouros and Deb Cervone. Bill and Deb had previously played in Black Rainbow, an original Cheltenham based Rock Fusion band. As time went on, the acoustic duo wanted more, adding ever increasing amounts of diverse musical instruments and musicians... and here we are today!

Animus has produced two CD's: "Animus Live at the Tin Angel" & "Animus - world fusion" and is currently working on a new recording project. Animus is featured on "Lurainya's Realm" DVD, "Taboo Glass" documentary video, WYBE's "Culture Shots" TV commercials and has performed live on NBC 10's morning show "10!".

Animus has performed abroad in South Africa and Kenya with Eastern College's gospel choir, Angels of Harmony, and has also performed around the United States. Animus' diversity makes them great just about anywhere. Venues range from coffee shops, bookstores, restaurants, bars, clubs, theaters, concert halls, galleries, museums, community centers, churches and synagogues. Animus has performed roving entertainment in traditional festive costumes at Trump Taj Mahal and Foxwoods Casinos. *Upon request we have several traditional belly dancers, ethnic fusion dancers and Greek, Turkish and Arabic Singers who can perform with us. Animus also performs at wedding celebrations, festivals, benefits, fund-raisers, and private parties.

Animus has collaborated extensively with professional dance instructors and teachers at colleges in workshops, classes and performances. Animus also offers educators and students of all ages a unique and enriching assembly program focusing on cultural diversity and unity through music and movement.

Animus is...
Bill Koutsouros - Bouzouki, Guitar, Oud, Doumbek and Percussion
Bill Phipps - Congas, Bongos and Percussion
Jay Mintz - Acoustic and Electric Bass
Elliott Levin - Flute, Saxophones, Zornas and Spoken Word
Joe McCormick - Drum Kit, Djembe, Congas and Percussion

Optional Dancers & Musicians:

Azhia - (F) Belly Dance & Ethnic Fusion Movement
Nyla - (F) Belly Dance
Lurainya - (F) Belly Dance
Kim Rollins - (F) Brazilian, Afro-Cuban & Ethnic Fusion Movement
Omar - (M) Belly dance
Jeremy Dyen - Tabla
Joe & Billy Tayoun - Doumbek & Middle Eastern Percussion
Hamit Golbasi - Turkish Ney & Zourna
Adeeb Rafella - Egyptian Violin
Kim Fedchek - Vocals, Recorder, Ney, Accordion, Clarinet, Flute, Piano & Percussion

http://www.animusmusic.com