Monogroove - There's Something Here (2020)

One of the benefits of spinning the radio dial back in the day was landing on a song you loved, or discovering one you hadn’t heard before, and digging its vibe. On There’s Something Here, the latest release from the California based band Monogroove, there’s no need to change the station to hear another great song. This talented trio treats us to a baker’s dozen of cool tracks, whose influences range from power pop to garage rock to psychedelia to punk, with a generous helping of folk mixed in for good measure. There’s Something Here is nothing less than a fantastic journey through the various rock and roll sounds of the 1960s and 1970s, imbued with a modern twist, and anchored by the band’s obvious love for the genres they’re celebrating.

The album opens with “Back Seat,” a Big Star meets Cheap Trick by way of the Raspberries number that perfectly sets the tone for what’s to follow. The rest of the record features a terrific roster of songs, including the harmony-filled melodies of “Can I Take A Chance,” as well as the baroque pop styled “The Looking Glass” and “The Rain.” There’s also the marvelous “God Please,” an earnest plea for peace in these troubled times, and folk-infused tracks like the lovely ballads “I’ll Never Know” and the achingly beautiful, ethereal “Now and Forever.” The band also knows how to rock out when they want to, as evidenced by the electric punk energy of “Up In The Attic” and the 1960s rock meets 1990s alternative rock sound of “Little Miss Cool.”

Monogroove's lineup features the multi-talented Rin Lennon on guitar and vocals, the masterful bass work of Woody Cross and the splendid drumming of Kenny Cratty, both of whom also contribute to the letter-perfect vocals. The band’s marvelous musical chemistry, tight chops and glorious harmonies create music that’s an absolute blast to listen to, and you’ll want to do just that, over and over again. Any band that can not only sound Beatlesque throughout their album, but also manages to pull off a dazzling cover of the classic “Magical Mystery Tour,” (featuring special guest star Probyn Gregory on trumpet) is well worth your time and attention.