ESCAPER, NYC’s sonic alchemists, release "Sleepin’" today—a sultry, trance-inducing journey into euphoric clarity. The second single from their forthcoming album Still Time (Ropeadope Records, Sept. 5, 2025), the track channels the band’s cult favorite "Open Sky" while pushing deeper into intimate, soul-jam territory.
The song, crafted by Phil Kadet (keys, vocals) and Will Hanza (guitar, vocals) is supported by rhythmic foundation of Aaron Johnston’s (drums - Brazilian Girls) beats, and Luke Bemand’s (lespecial) hypnotic bassline. Layered with dreamy Rhodes keys, minimalist guitar, and smooth vocals, "Sleepin’" mirrors the shock of "eyes snapping open to seize new opportunity." It’s a spacious, psychedelic meditation designed for late-night reflection—bridging R&B, jazz, and electronica with effortless cool.
"This song is about that moment when you realize you’ve been sleepwalking... and suddenly everything sharpens into focus,” explains Will Hanza. “We wanted the music to feel like a morning revelation—soft but undeniable."
Following the unveiling of studio single "Chance," in July, "Sleepin’" is yet another powerful display of Escaper’s nuanced, groove-forward introspection characterizing the vibe of their forthcoming album. Since 2015, the band has ignited stages alongside Thievery Corporation and The Disco Biscuits, but here they trade fireworks for smoldering embers—proving their sound is as expansive as the "open sky" they evoke.
Escaper 2025 Tour Dates:
Aug 2 - Hudson, NY - Park Theater
Aug 22 - Albright, WV - Groovin’ with the Grove
September 4 - Brooklyn, NY - Baby’s All Right (ALBUM RELEASE SHOW)
September 12-14 - Greenfield, MA - Wormtown Music Festival
About ESCAPER:
Deep kinetic grooves take you to outer space, elevate your soul and liberate your mind
Piloted by the broadly influenced, stage-seasoned pair of Will Hanza (guitar, vocals) and Phil Kadet (keys, vocals), Ropeadope Records recording artists Escaper blend Rock, R&B, Jazz, Funk and Electronica into cohesive, soul-stirring, jam-filled soundscapes. The duo are complemented by a cadre of in-demand drummers and bassists. Heavy grooving bassist Luke Bemand (lespecial) in particular, is a key contributor and collaborator.
Since its formation in 2015, New York-based ESCAPER has enchanted audiences at venues and festivals throughout the Northeast with their inspired musical celebration of life and being. The band’s unrestrained yet creatively engaged musicianship has attracted sit-ins by players from notable like-minded bands such as the Disco Biscuits, Brazilian Girls, Thievery Corporation, Rubblebucket, Dopapod, Cabinet and Turkuaz.
The sparkling sonic interplay between Hanza and Kadet, underpinned by the funky punch of the talented pocket keepers, is ready-made for uninhibited communal hip-shaking. Escaper’s acclaimed live shows attract true music lovers of all ages and backgrounds, eager to vibe in the band’s musical embrace.
