Illyah Kuryahkin was the Man from U.N.C.L.E.-inspired alias of New York-based performer Dean Wilson. After taking up piano and guitar as a child, Wilson studied music theory and technique in college; upon adopting his nom de rock, he began experimenting with tunings and harmonics, drawing on influences ranging from the shoegazer movement to Middle Eastern music to create an eclectic mutant pop hybrid. After issuing a handful of singles recorded on Wilson's portastudio, the first full-length Illyah Kuryahkin release, Count No Count, appeared on the tiny Arena Rock label in 1996. Thirycabminute followed in 1999. ~ Jason Ankeny