Biography

Anguile, born Bruno Simonet, is a Gabonese-French reggae artist, co-founder of "The High Steppers" band, residing in up-state NY near Albany and Saratoga Springs. The band's name refers to the "High" Adirondack mountains and the traditional reggae/ska drum beat style, “steppers”. They specialize
in roots reggae with an emphasis on dub along with Afro-fusion.

Anguile has been performing and recording for the last two decades, although he just released his first CD,
"Wisdom of the King" with Zamani Records.
In the summer of 2008, Anguile performed at the
International Montreal Jazz Festival, giving a crowd of over 10,000 a memorable performance.
Some audience members compared him to Matisyahu, some to Black Uhuru, and some to Alpha Blondy.
With his bilingual French/English lyrics and his deep roots rhythms, the audience loved it.

"The High Steppers" band was founded by Anguile & Mikey Dread (bass) in the summer of 2008, after
Anguile moved to the area. Soon followed the addition of Dave Tower (percussion), Denis Montano (guitar) and
Marc Montano (drums), all seasoned professional musicians. The High Steppers have performed locally, and soon hope to be touring all over the North East and more.

Anguile is Bruno's Gabonese name (pronounced Ong - GEE - Lay), which he decided to use as his musician's name.
The name is the same as one of his ancestors who was an important figure in the history of his country - King Louis Anguile Dowe. Even though he was originally a black African slave trader, he agreed in 1841 to end the slave trade in Gabon. Like King Louis Anguile, Anguile Bruno hopes he could be used to end the struggles of other people one day. Born mixed between Africa and Europe, Anguile’s lyrics reflect his multi-racial experiences by showcasing a strong anti-racial, faith-filled message, and a very humanistic approach to living our lives together and in peace.

Later, in the 80’s, Anguile moved to Texas where he was a DJ on jazz radio, KNTU.
He also studied film and television and participated in many musical projects as a videographer and also as a producer. There, in Denton, he met Rashani, who has remained a close friend for the last two decades and acted as a producing partner on Anguile’s first album, "Wisdom of the King" (released on Zamani Records).

Anguile's messages echo those of Bob Marley, Martin Luther King, or even of Ghandi.
Anguile has collaborated as well with the likes of Winston Watson of the Meditations and Ed Robinson of Brooklyn, New York, originally from Jamaica.

Anguile & The High Steppers' African-French roots reggae is a unique blend of African and European reggae, with a heavy dose of pure Jamaican roots. Anguile's soulful and spiritual voice will transport you to the coast of Africa and deep into the African diaspora throughout the world.
Anguile & The High Steppers will soon be touring and performing in the US and Canada, and plan also to tour Europe as well.
When you see them perform, just let the music transport you to the coast of Africa. Experience "The Last Eden" on earth with a reggae vibe!