Russell Lissack

Russell Lissack (born March 11, 1981) is the lead guitarist of London-based indie rock band Bloc Party. He is also in the band Pin Me Down; a duo of himself and Milena Mepris, who once referred to Lissack as a “Meerkat” due to how he appears and darts about on and off stage.

Lissack grew up in Chingford, London, and went to Bancroft’s School in Woodford, Essex. He then studied Sociology at London South Bank University, dropping out weeks before graduation so he could tour with Bloc Party. He does not do many interviews, (and when he does, he keeps words to a minimum) and he shies away from the camera, leading many to believe that he is quite quiet. When Bloc Party became popular mid 2004, Russell was noted for his distinctive haircut, involving a triangular fringe covering a large part of his face and head. This style has affectionately become known as a “blochead.” He has also been compared to Radiohead’s Jonny Greenwood in terms of both looks and style of guitar playing.

Although he has a wiry, sharp solo sound, derived from the use of a Fender Telecaster, he also uses his effects pedals to create ambient sounds (such as the delay effect at the beginning of “Like Eating Glass”).

Russell Lissack joined Ash as guitarist on tour in 2010 while Bloc Party are on sabattical.