Album Notes

From the Nation’s capitol and the heart of the U St. corridor comes Monopoliâ€"an explosion of music from Washington, DC which is unparalleled in showmanship and unmatched in style. This is where Rube and Alfonso met and found their common experiences in living abroad in cities like Haifa, Mexico, Moscow, Buenos Aires, and San Juan to be the unifying force in the birth of Monopoli.

These unique backgrounds and stories created the Monopoli experience that soars alongside a rocking New York rhythm and a rolling British soundscape.

The lyrics by Alfonso are elegant, imaginative, original, yet complete. You’ll hear his guitar influences shine through on “Love,” accompanying the lyrics with a Spaniard’s bluesmanship. His vocal delivery is likened to Chet Baker’s while maintaining the potency of Morrison’s charm and snarl. His voice is polished attitude. Alfonso is Monopoli’s dreamer.

Rube’s guitar work both soothes and pulverizes--a trait distinct in Monopoli’s anthems. Rube has an exceptional ear for melody as he balances showmanship and delivery in a natural and unforgettable way. Rube is Monopoli’s X - factor.

Dave magazine brings precision, power, and conviction to Monopoli’s drum throne. Magazine is Monopoli’s fervor. He’s been known to throw mobile phones off of bridges and smoke cigarettes while titling himself a non-smoker all while paraphrasing his favorite Elvis Costello quotes. He is a walking contradiction with fire in his belly for rock and roll.

Tracy Epperson is Monopoli’s lifeline, the cool, level-headed bass player that everyone wants in a band. His unique ability is paralleled only by his continual willingness to grow through music.

More than anything these guys are honest and giving friends. One moment off stage with them and you’ll understand. Monopoli goes where contemporaries fear to venture lyrically and musically; this band plays intelligent, fearless, and magical pop music that converts audiences at every performance.

Monopoli awed CMJ 2005 with their live set. Jane magazine teamed up with Shirley Manson of Garbage to pick Monopoli as a group on Jane’s next reader CD available in every issue. Monopoli will be spotlighted in Amtrak’s Arrive magazine in April just as their first east coast tour is under way. They have sold out DC shows at the Black cat (800 capacity) and headlined at the nationally known 9:30 club. Growing industry interest is apparent and with a full length album due out in February you’ll be sure to hear Monopoli in the coming months. Myspace and Cdbaby can testify to the band’s international and domestic growth. Listen... Are You Monopolized?