Nikus Pokus, founding member of rap group Svinkels, dies at 51

Frequently compared to the Americans Beastie Boys, the group marked the beginning of the 2000s thanks to its biting, offbeat and trashy lyrics, and its rock or even punk attitude.

Nikus Pokus, founding member of the rap group Svinkels, which marked the beginning of the 2000s, died Friday of a heart attack at the age of 51, AFP learned Sunday from those close to this group .

Nikus Pokus (real name Nicolas Tissier) is dead “coming back from a hike”, at his home in Lézardrieux, in Côtes d’Armor, where he had recently moved, according to those close to the group. He was the father of a 4-year-old daughter and was planning to release his first solo album.

“With a heavy heart but full of love for you, our legendary traveling companion, the whole group and teams wish you to join the stars you have known all your incredible life”, announced the group on Saturday on Instagram and Facebook.

Svinkels, which takes its name from a cheap beer brand, was founded in the mid-1990s by Nikus Pokus and Gérard Baste, then high school students. They were later joined by Mr. Xavier and DJ Pone. At that time, Svinkels was classified among the so-called rap groups “alternatives”alongside TTC, Klub des Loosers or La Caution, as opposed to commercial hip-hop promoted by radio stations and major record labels.

Svinkels released studio albums Red carpet in 1999, Asylum vouchers in 2003, Dirty Center in 2008 then Relapse in 2021, after several years of break. The group was preparing its return for 2025, according to those around it.

Gérard Baste, for his part, was on tour in recent months with his group Slip Squad, alongside Mr. Xavier. He had planned several concerts with Nikus Pokus in June and July.