Music Review: "Disconnect" from Monks of Mellonwah

When I was first introduced to Monks of Mellonwah through Independent Music Productions, I was instantly excited to review this EP. Not only did I feel intrigued to listen to their pop / alternative rock sound, but these guys are also based in my hometown of Sydney! It's always wonderful to discover local talent.

Monks of Mellonwah recently released a new EP titled "Disconnect" in June, and so far, it is proving to be quite the success! This four-piece have even made waves in the US since forming their band, winning prestigious awards such as International Rock Band Of The Year (LA Music Awards 2012) and Best Indie Rock Band (AIM Awards 2012). Impressive!

When it comes to their own musical influences, they list popular bands and musicians such as Pink Floyd, Muse, Led Zeppelin, Coldplay, Arctic Monkeys, and the Red Hot Chili Peppers.

Now, to the new record. "Never Been Good" is the first track and it begins with an indie pop / electro sound. It's fun and upbeat, and although it wasn't as 'rock' as I was initially expecting, it was a great start to the album, hinting at what was to come.

"Even When It Burns" was the next track and this one was less pop / 'dancey' (I'm making up words here ha ha!) and contained more of that indie rock vibe which I love. Perhaps it is just me, but I couldn't help but pick up some slight hints of sound which reminded me of Dead Letter Circus, particularly in the heavier of rock parts. I loved this track!

"Show Me Something More" followed on, containing a beautifully soft piano melody to begin with. This track had a heavy electro pop sound and was incredibly catchy. It's definitely a song which you listen to and can imagine just about every radio station soon playing it. Mind you, I definitely feel as though I have heard this song before - Triple J maybe?

"Interlude" was a perfect, calming and operatic interlude between songs. I loved the sweeping instrumentals of this track.

"Disconnect" for me showcased how this band can cover a range of musical genres and sounds in one EP. I could definitely see the Coldplay influence in this song and enjoyed the sombre piano ending which slowly faded out.

"Feel It Coming", (along with "Even When It Burns"), was my favourite track. It contained more electric guitar than the other songs in the EP, and was quite 'gutsy'.

"Look At Me" is the final track on the album and it's another fun and upbeat song which you could easily dance to if you wanted to. It had a bit of a Maroon 5 vibe to it, and I thought it was clever that the band ended their EP with an incredibly catchy tune that you'll find stuck in your head for days!

You can stream the single "Even When It Burns" on SoundCloud, and please be sure to keep up-to-date with the band on their website, Facebook page or BandCamp site. Enjoy!

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- This review is part of our ongoing Music Review series where Whim is introduced to an array of artists from Independent Music Promotions.