In the heart of Melbourne, Australia, emerges the electrifying sound of Monroe, a five-piece hard/ pop rock band taking the music scene by storm. This dynamic ensemble draws inspiration from the vibrant era of 80s pop culture, forging a path that blends nostalgia with a contemporary twist. In this exclusive interview, Monroe takes us on a journey through their musical evolution, influences, and the essence of their live performances.
A Rock Revolution Begins
Monroe's journey commenced during the lockdowns of 2019 when lead guitarist Rocco, fueled by a passion for 80s hard rock, posted a Facebook advert in pursuit of like-minded individuals. His vision was to create an original 80s hard rock band, but fate had something else in store. Responding to the call were singer Jordan Klein and rhythm guitarist Jason J. Mark. Shortly thereafter, bassist Christian and drummer Brandon joined the ranks. United by their deep love for the 80s hard rock and pop icons that defined an era, Monroe embarked on a mission to craft infectious hard rock anthems.
However, this quest for authenticity soon evolved. Rather than dwelling solely in the past, Monroe transcended the confines of nostalgia. They harnessed the spirit of modern pop music, added a fresh visual aesthetic, and embraced a party-centric image. The result was a dynamic blend of old and new, a redefined Monroe ready to captivate audiences.
The Rock Renaissance: Musical Style and Themes
Monroe's music pays homage to the golden era of 80s hard rock and pop. Their recent EP, "Out of Fashion," embodies this homage while demonstrating their versatility. Tracks like "Freak" and "Dance with the Devil" infuse elements of alternative rock and synth pop into their core hard rock sound. Their lyrics span the spectrum, from high-energy party anthems to introspective explorations of toxic relationships, as seen in "Dance with the Devil."
Harbingers of Rock: Inspirations and Diversity
Monroe's inspiration derives from an eclectic mix of sources. Their journey began with explorations into glam metal acts like RATT and Dokken, later converging with influences from new wave groups like Duran Duran. However, two monumental bands, KISS and Van Halen, stood as common pillars, unifying the band from their very first rehearsal. Determined to be musically diverse, Monroe delves into various rock and pop subgenres, ultimately returning to their roots of unadulterated rock and memorable sing-along choruses inspired by Van Halen and KISS.
A Symphony of Creation: Songwriting Alchemy
Monroe's songwriting process is a testament to their creativity. There's no single formula. Instead, they embrace spontaneity, often drawing inspiration from the most unexpected sources. A cymbal's name, for example, birthed their song "P.S.T." Their lyrics emanate from the need to create energy that resonates, leaving audiences upbeat and exhilarated. Each song has a unique origin story, revealing the band's ability to craft memorable melodies from the most diverse muses.
A Crescendo of Achievement: Career Highlights
A pinnacle moment for Monroe is the recent release of their debut EP, "Out of Fashion." It symbolizes a culmination of hard work and passion, and the band was elated to share it with the world.
Another unforgettable milestone was their first headliner show. In the infancy of their career, the band didn't anticipate the overwhelming crowd response. They even oversold the gig, fueling their excitement and determination to deliver an unforgettable performance.
The Heart-Pounding Beat of Live Rock
Monroe is no stranger to the stage, with over 25 live performances since their debut in February 2022. Their love for live shows stems from the interaction with the crowd. Drawing inspiration from legends like Queen, the band aims to engage their audience fully. The excitement of their first gig, which exceeded all expectations, stands as one of their most cherished memories. More recently, their EP release performance solidified itself as a defining moment, leaving an indelible mark in their journey.
Rocking Visual Elements
Stage performances are at the heart of Monroe's shows. Influenced by legendary acts like KISS, RATT, and Van Halen, they infuse their concerts with a bombastic aura, aiming to deliver arena- sized energy in more intimate settings. Each band member adds their unique flavor to the performance, making every show memorable. Their music video for "Party Tonight" captures the essence of a simple yet spirited party theme, mirroring their dynamic on-stage presence. Monroe's visual journey complements their music, enhancing the overall experience.
An Ever-Evolving Artistry
Monroe's artistic growth reflects their journey. Their early work delved deep into glam metal, embodying a pure 80s sound. As they ventured into live shows and explored new musical directions, they transformed into the in-your-face rock outfit with pop elements that they are today. While their future creative path remains uncertain, Monroe remains content with their dynamic brand of rock, thrilling audiences worldwide.
Monroe has rekindled the spirit of rock, merging the best of two eras and creating a sound uniquely their own. As they continue their journey, their electrifying performances and music resonate with fans, promising even more rock 'n' roll adventures to come.
