L.E.S. Crew

In 2007, Living Energy System (L.E.S.) was founded by turntablest/songwriter DJ RedSun and lyricist/poet Taj the Illforgotten. With the help of local graphic designer Steve Kropp, they immediately began performing original hip-hop material in the Columbus circuit. Along the way, they collaborated with numerous local artists, eventually meeting and enlisting the aid of MC/songwriter Eric “E-roc” Harris.
As a trio, the group developed an undeniable presence in the Columbus hip-hop scene. In December 2007, L.E.S. received the “Artist of the Month” award from Hip-Hop Columbus. The brisk productivity of the group lead to the prompt release of their compilation EP entitled “The Cookie Jar” in early 2008. This collection was distributed in both hard and digital formats and remains an excellent example of the band’s sonic capabilities.
In April 2009, through a series of chance meetings, L.E.S. added a live-instrument variable to their master equation. Upon enlisting the musicianship and collective influences of drummer Jahrie Smith, guitarist Juhriah Smith, bassist Tony Fancelli, percussionist Joey Gurwin, and vocalist Dani Angelica Lee. The dynamic of their live set changed remarkably. The inherent energy of this new format introduced them to a new audience as they began performing with other Columbus bands such as Stretch Lefty, TGP, and IN3D. The band’s commitment to a local music community has led to collaborations with many additional artists such as Stefan of Seen Tru, Carlos Bermudez of Verb, the Illusion, and Estello.
The L.E.S. name has become more of a unifying theory than a name. Living Energy System means the bringing together of musicians, music, art, community, and an overall sense of togetherness. The Collected artist came from many different types of backgrounds, genres and lifestyles. This has led them to be on such bills as Brother Ali, Devin the Dude, G-love and Special Sauce, Mid-west Hype, Mr. Lif, and more. L.E.S. Crew has played a number of venues from The Bitter End in New York to Harrisburg, Athens, and more.

L.E.S. Crew is gathering momentum and will bring the message of love, peace and community to yours and back to ours.