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From the moment you hear your first track by Planet Sumo, it's clear that their sound is unlike any other. Their songs are
somehow more than just songs; they are elaborate listening experiences, full of emotion and carefully constructed to convey
a distinct message: We are the urban alternative, and we are the future. Group members Stinjo, Heidi Marie, Bruce Hathcock,
and Sef Kobain are four decidedly different individuals, all with their own artistic point of view, who have found a way to
co-exist creatively and produce a sound that is truly unique. From the egotistical synthesized swagger of "Mirrors" to the
guitar laden drum breaks of "Acoustic Dreamz" Planet Sumo seems dedicated to diversity, seamlessly incorporating various
musical styles into one. This diversity is evident not only in their music but also in the varied personal histories of the
group members themselves.
Stinjo branded his signature delivery and clever lyrical wordplay as a member of the 90's hip-hop group Anotha Level while
he was still in High School. Their debut album “On Anotha Level” sold more than 250,000 copies. His recent solo project,
“The Live and Direct Show”, features tracks with artists such as The Lady of Rage, Slim Kid 3, Fat Lip of The Pharcyde, and
Roscoe Umali. "Every time I step into the studio my goal is to create a classic," he says, "I won't settle for anything less
than that." He also started his own company, Creative Control Entertainment, which will release Planet Sumo’s first project.
As an entrepreneur he has not settled for less either. His discipline and refined business techniques have helped to
classify him as a dedicated rising star. With an endless supply of creativity and determination, Stinjo is the engine behind
Planet Sumo, pushing them toward the top with focused efficiency.
Growing up in Watts, California Sef Kobain idolized artists like NWA, Too Short, and Ice Cube who changed the game with
clever rhymes and powerful messages. His talent and passion grew exponentially, as did his understanding of the business
aspects of the music industry. These days, Sef Kobain has pushed the envelope far beyond his west coast roots to incorporate
not only rapping, but also singing. "I'm just trying to stretch my wings, think outside the box, and really bring my
artistic value to the table," he said when asked about his overall vision of himself as an artist, "I'm really just inspired
by music as a whole."
As the only woman in the group, the beautiful and captivating Heidi Marie brings her own unique energy to Planet Sumo. Her
mother is from England the eclectic blend of artists she listened to influenced Heidi Marie greatly throughout her
childhood. She grew up listening to Rock and Roll as well as Motown and her talent as a singer and writer was evident from
an early age. "I think that's part of what makes Planet Sumo stand apart from everything else that's out there," Heidi Marie
said about her role in the group, "We all come from different backgrounds, and I think my musical taste gives our music a
certain edge."
Bruce Hathcock also credits his mother as his first musical inspiration. “When I was growing up my mother and sister both
sang all the time so it was only natural that I picked it up,” he says, “from there it was Bob Marley, Prince, The Time,
Janis Joplin, and Jimmy Hendrix, Tears for Fears, Duran Duran. I like to keep it diverse.” This diversity is a welcome
addition the melting pot that is Planet Sumo, and Bruce Hathcock’s vocals definitely add a distinct flavor. When asked what
part he played in the creative process, Bruce Hathcock said “I think my role in the group is to be the chameleon, whatever
the song needs, that’s what I become.”
What Planet Sumo delivers is a sound unlike any other, a sound that catches the attention of listeners and doesn’t let go.
With pure, multifaceted, creative energy evident in every note, it provides the perfect soundtrack to the future—a daring,
courageous journey into the unknown. It transcends the boundaries of genre and style and exists, quite simply, as real
music.
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