MONOVOX: Monovox

Monovox

Monovox

© 2002 Ask A Chimp Llc

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Edgy wide-open melodies from madison, wisconsin.

notes

Anthony Shaw -- Lead Vocals, Guitars
Matthew Schaeffer -- Guitars, Vocals
Paul Heenan -- Guitars and Percussion
Cliff Hammer -- Bass
Kramer -- Drums and Percussion

There is an allure of mass-conformity that seems to tempt most of us when we are young. Then again, certain individuals never feel the attraction.

Anthony Shaw wanted to express his individuality. Struggling with thoughts and feelings too powerful to ignore, the 19-year-old sought an outlet to fulfill his need for drama. He joined a band. He describes the situation: "It gave voice to certain aspects of my personality that I could not express otherwise."

Shaw defines the meaning of the band's name, MONOVOX, as "solitary voice". He hopes it reflects the unity and cohesiveness that four individuals can attain through their music.

Matthew Schaeffer, Cliff Hammer and Kramer had been playing together for some time: They were childhood friends and began making music together while in junior high. Schaeffer and Kramer were also computer-savvy. They had toyed with computers and actively worked to promote their band via e-mail and the Internet. When Anthony came aboard, they knew they could begin to take their "playing" seriously. Anthony had the raw vocal talent which they never expected to chance upon.

According to Schaeffer, "The vocals became the most important part of the band as soon as he (Shaw) joined. I started writing songs around his vocals. Before that time, the vocals were just a tiny pie slice of our songs' content."

Anthony also found tremendous satisfaction in writing for the band. Their repertoire grew. The music has been described as "post-modern" rock, because the songs pulled influences and details from various recent decades. Dean A. Stier of the Badger Herald wrote, " MONOVOX shows a maturity not found in most major bands today. They can effortlessly move from... dark, oily noise... to... simple, acoustic melody."

But it was energetic, driving rhythm that provided the breakthrough when listeners at the garageband.com web site ranked, as best, the song "First Time". From among thousands of demo recordings, MONOVOX' song was selected and the band was given a recording contract. They proceeded to go into the studio with Talking Head, Jerry Harrison (Live, The Violent Femmes, Kenny Wayne Shepherd), in charge of production.

The ten-song album that emerged from that collaboration is awaiting an anticipated release. A 3-song, advance, promotional EP has been released. The EP contains the aforementioned "First Time" and two other songs that will not be on the full-length album.

In support of their upcoming, self-titled release, you'll find MONOVOX touring the nation in search of new fans and fresh inspiration. For those who've never seen or heard them before, the band guarantees an energetic show that'll push your buttons and leave you thoroughly engaged.

reviews

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  • This band rocks!
    author: Nichole

    This CD is by far the best they have put out. I've been following them for about 10 years (when they were JJWar). When I hear them on the radio (Milwaukee's 102.1), I get so excited and blast the volume. I LOVE THIS BAND and can't wait until the full CD comes out!!!

  • Anything from Monovox is awesome!
    author: Tracy

    Although this EP only has 3 songs, they are really well written and composed. Something I can listen to over and over and hear something new every time. I saw Monovox 7 years ago and they blew me away. I look forward to a full length CD someday.

  • would like to hear more
    author: brian

    great hooks. A real respect shown for 70's power-pop. I like the words and the vocals.

  • These guys have been professional musicians since the 7th grade!!!!
    author: Ezra

    These three songs are some of the best songs out on the air waves today! They haven't even showed you all of their talent yet, all of their songs, Or even the potential that is gushing from every pore on their rock'n vessels!! The White Stripes have saved rock'n'roll but Monovox will reincarnate rock'n'roll back to its original power!!

  • These guys kick ass!
    author: Mark

    We saw these guys at the Harley Davidson 100th Anniversary, they opened for Billy Idol, and they rocked. These kids played their heart out. I can't wait til they release a full CD, I'll be one of the first customers. I listen to the promotional CD at least once a week if not more. They have a solid, smooth sound and they have fun. I hope they keep their dream alive and don't sell out to a commercial label and/or fan base. If anyone has a chance to see them, it is worth the night!

  • author: Suzanne

    One word - Fabulous!!!

  • Great band
    author: Andrew

    Although only three songs long, they all pack a certain amount of energy that makes it seem like you're listening for hours. From the intenseness of First Time, through the melodic verse, heavy chorus-ed Kiss Away and Rise comes a band that deserves more credit and recognition. They're a real nice and comedic group of people too.

  • Great Sound!!!! Nice vocal melodies!
    author: JOSH

    I just stumbled across Monovox and was pleasantly surprised! I like the dynamics and the vox are GREAT! reminds me a bit of Remy Zero(that is a HUGE compliment) Thanks for the tunes, from a fellow musician!

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