Urban Roots Experience


Reggae ~ Funk ~ Rock ~ HipHop ~ Jam


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The Band...



Since IMI's inception in 1993, the band has seen many different members come and go with Johnny being the 'founding father' and Justin coming onboard in '96 as the lead guitarist and manager. IMI's latest evolution brings multi-instrumentalist Dillon Rivers to the front of the stage and Anthony Deso on drums along with several guest artists to expand upon IMI's already full sound...



OUR people



Dillon Rivers



Lead Vocals, Sax, Guitar



Dillon is a singer/songwriter out of Troy, NY. A life-long music lover, growing up he taught himself guitar, drums, and piano and has played alto and tenor sax and sung in school since he was 10 years old. Dillon studied music Industry at Oneonta State, and is a health and fitness enthusiast and loves anything involving adventures in nature. His musical influences include RHCP, Bob Marley, Jack Johnson, Sublime, The Offspring, Tom Petty, John Mayer, and many more.



JUstin Metz



Lead Guitar, Vocals



Justin has been a lifelong guitarist and musician. With a degree in both music performance & technology, Justin has had a long career as both a professional musician as well as owner/operator of Rockwell Productions Recording & Music Studios. He first joined IMI in 1996 and has toured the east coast with multiple bands in various styles. Justin is also the bassist for the regional/touring hip-hop, R&B project The Ill Funk Ensemble.



Johnny Smith



Bass, Vocals



A founding member of IMI, Johnny has brought his love for reggae and jam music to IMI since its inception. Influenced by groups like the Jerry Garcia Project, Quicksilver Messenger Service, Bob Marley, The Red Hot Chili Peppers and more, Johnny's stage presence and outgoing personality are always memorable!



ANthony Deso



Drums, Vocals



A self taught drummer of 30+ years with many different influences from funk, R&B, Reggae, Rock, Hip Hop & a drop of country, Anthony has twisted it into his own creative playing style. He's toured with and opened for likes of The Wailers, The Skatalites, Shootyz Groove, 2 Skinnee J’s, Non-point, De-La-Soul, Goldfinger, Mighty Might Bosstones, Vanilla Ice (hardcore project) and many others in past projects FUNKSHOP LOOMIS, SKADEE, Wag and LevelHead.



mail@imitheband.com



IMI ~ Urban Roots Style