Simians is an 8-piece folk-rock/folktronica/chamber pop band based in San Diego. The project is the brainchild of songwriter and former primatologist, Simon Breen. Simians’ cinematic sound is characterized by pensive songs that channel the human experience, breathed to life through the uniquely ethereal lead vocals of Lauren Kirby, sung over a canvas of melodic, musical layers. Blending retro vibes with a modern twist, the ensemble features a roster of bandmates hailing from an eclectic mix of musical backgrounds, who inject an orchestral component into the music with an array of traditional and not-so-traditional instruments like viola, upright bass, flute, trumpet, xylosynth, baglamas, banjo, accordion, piano, synthesizers, and more. Each instrument finds its voice within Simians' debut album, "Crises of Willpower," a sprawling opus recorded in Nashville, Tennessee and produced by Grammy-nominated producer Ken Coomer (a co-founder of Wilco and Uncle Tupelo). Released May 17, 2024, the album is an odyssey through various forms of existential struggle, both internal and external. Brachiate through the lush soundscapes of Simians, and discover songs that resonate at a primal level.

"From emotional lyrics detailing full stories, or fully instrumental tracks belonging in film, their wide range in style offers so much to unfold."      -Kathe Magazine

THE PLAYERS

Simians is:
  -Simon Breen (guitar)
  -Lauren Kirby (vocals)
  -Alex Fonseca (trumpet/mallets)
  -Aaron Freeman (bass)
  -Leilani Gjellstad (flute/keys/backing vox)
  -Jason Votaw (piano/keys)
  -Brandon Wallace (accordion/strings/banjo/baglamas/kaval/mandolin)
  -Mitchell Fedie (drums/backing vox)

Join our mailing list for the latest scoop and special fan perks.