From the dark depths of Bristol’s legendary underground music scene come four hyperactive
beatniks and one hot tub installation assistant, with a flair for crushing grooves and poignant
lyricism that ignites on stage in a manic explosion of relentless kinetic energy.

Although existent in various forms since October 2006, it was not until early 2008 that the
Ruckus Collective really took off, quickly earning a reputation as one of the city’s most exciting
new bands. A constantly evolving palette of influences including funk, hip-hop, jazz, and rock
with a punk attitude has drawn comparisons with the likes of Ozomatli and the Red Hot Chili
Peppers, but in reality it is impossible to categorise this remorselessly genre-smashing punk
fusion party sound. In the words of Tony Benjamin “that's the secret of Ruckus' music – they use
their ingredients carefully, mixing and matching for sound and style to keep their essential
variety”.

The recording of “Stop, Drop, Dance!” in June ’08 represented a high point for the five
members, keen to capture the group’s live potential with a debut album funded by months of
heavy gigging. The studio experience had ups and downs, but its result is a disc that successfully
portrays the edgy creativity and incendiary dancefloor power which never fails to raise a ruckus.
Shaky times were to follow. University commitments caused the removal of several members
from the country. Despite this enforced hiatus, spirits were kept high – the inevitable reunion
would be worth waiting for.

A year on in the fall of 2009, the band regrouped stronger than ever and began storming venues
all over Bristol like they’d never been away. With a bunch of new material and a ton of stored
up energy it was once again time to record. Through various side projects much knowledge had
been gained in the fields of sound engineering and production and a complete DIY approach was
adopted for the second album. Somewhat appropriate considering the fiscal climate at that
time.

Due for release Autumn 2010, “FIST” is looking likely to hit 9 on the Rickta Scale. This is
vibration therapy as it should be - loud, live and raw. Ruckus Collective bring so much more than
music to the stage and having already proven themselves of the Bristol circuit, they will now
begin their first nationwide tour.