Wednesday the 17th of April 2024
Drum & Bass MC turned singer-songwriter Billy Rowan, aka The Undercover Hippy, returns to the Phoenix as part of his ongoing mission to make people think, laugh, and dance simultaneously. Described by Tom Robinson (BBC6Music) as being “like the love-child of Steel Pulse, Kate Tempest and The Sleaford Mods”, his music brings together powerful messages, infectious reggae rhythms, and a fast paced lyrical delivery. Renowned for the electric atmosphere of their live shows, Billy and his band never fail to leave the crowd feeling inspired and energized, playing tours and festivals across the UK and Europe. Combining intelligent, provocative lyrics with dangerously catchy hooks and a feel-good groove, this is music for the thinking person to shake their arse to. Think Natty meets Eminem…on a protest march…at the Edinburgh Fringe.
We’ve got two exciting support acts too!
Dr Splink combine upbeat ska and funk with quirky lyrics, showmanship and great stories, whilst Leonard & The Zombies are a brand new Riot Grrrl band who’re making a real splash throughout Devon.
This Undercover Hippy gig is fundraiser in support of Exeter’s sound alternative community radio station, Phonic FM.
“Beautifully produced agitprop reggae flavoured rap… Like the love-child of Steel Pulse, Kate Tempest, and The Sleaford Mods” – Tom Robinson, BBC6Music
“Delivers big, weighty messages with an optimistic and entertaining light-heartedness” – On The Beat (review of album launch)
“A solemn reminder that even the most powerful are fallible” – Record of The Week – Camden New Journal
“The band lit up the venue with their tongue-in-cheek yet poignant music” – ClunkMag Review
“Politically charged reggae that sticks two fingers up to the powers that be” – Christopher McBride, Fresh on The Net
“This is about as real as music gets!” – Andrew Marston – BBC Introducing
“Ten tracks of excellence…nothing short of a triumph! 9/10” – Due South West