Monk (hardcore punk band)
Monk | |
|---|---|
Monk in Hamilton, Ontario, 2023 | |
| Background information | |
| Origin | Los Angeles, California, United States |
| Genres | Hardcore punk |
| Years active | 2023–present |
| Labels | Dine Alone Records, Tarantula Tapes |
| Members | Frank Bach |
| Website | www |
Monk is a hardcore punk band from Los Angeles, California, formed in 2023 by Frank Bach (formerly of Vicious Cycle).[1] Their debut EP Rock was produced by Frank Bach and Ian Romano and released through Dine Alone Records in 2023.[2]
History
Monk's first live performance and record release took place in August 2023 in Sudbury, Ontario.[2] No Echo described the debut EP as blending hardcore punk with mindfulness and incorporating a 12-minute guided meditation on its B-side.[2]
Following the release, Monk toured the United States, Canada, and Mexico, appearing on tour dates with D.O.A. and Single Mothers.[3]
In 2023, Monk released the single "Monk Stomp," which featured Liam Cormier of Cancer Bats. Punknews included the track in its "Editor’s Picks" roundup of new bands to watch.[4]
In February 2025, Monk released the single "Dark Side of the Mind," featuring guest vocals by Brendan Murphy of Counterparts. The release was accompanied by a music video directed by Jovanni Martinez, according to Lambgoat.[5] V13 later announced that the full EP Dark Side of the Mind would be released in April 2025 through Dine Alone Records and Tarantula Tapes.[6]
Punknews published a track-by-track feature for the EP, where Frank Bach described its themes of duality and introspection.[7] That same year, the band also appeared on Punknews Podcast #691, discussing their mindful ethos and use of social media, and premiering a guided meditation segment.[8]
Style
Monk's sound has been described as "zen hardcore," a fusion of hardcore punk aggression with elements of spiritual reflection.[2] According to New Noise, Bach's background in mindfulness practice and his former role as a design lead at the meditation app Headspace shaped the band's lyrical and aesthetic direction.[9]
Philanthropy
According to the band's official website, Monk maintains a “Giving Back” initiative that supports mental health organizations, reproductive justice initiatives, migrant support networks, environmental causes, and community aid groups.[10] In 2023, New Noise reported that the band also participated in the Forever Wildland Fest in California, which raised funds for wildland firefighters.[11]
Discography
- Extended plays
- Rock (2023, Dine Alone Records)
- Dark Side of the Mind (2025, Dine Alone Records/Tarantula Tapes)
References
- ^ "Vicious Cycle Pale Blue Dot Album Review". Punknews. August 11, 2009. Retrieved September 2, 2025.
- ^ a b c d "New Hardcore Band Spotlight: Monk". No Echo. September 9, 2023. Retrieved September 2, 2025.
- ^ "Single Mothers announce North American tour to celebrate 10 years of Negative Qualities". Punknews. August 2, 2023. Retrieved September 2, 2025.
- ^ "Editor's Picks: Check Out These Cool Bands in 2024". Punknews. January 8, 2024. Retrieved September 2, 2025.
- ^ "Counterparts' Brendan Murphy guests on Monk's latest single 'Dark Side of the Mind'". Lambgoat. February 13, 2025. Retrieved September 2, 2025.
- ^ "Monk delivering Dark Side of the Mind EP, April 25 via Dine Alone Records". V13. February 13, 2025. Retrieved September 2, 2025.
- ^ "Monk break down every track on 'Dark Side of the Mind'". Punknews. April 29, 2025. Retrieved September 2, 2025.
- ^ "Listen to Punknews Podcast #691 – Monk!". Punknews. February 21, 2025. Retrieved September 2, 2025.
- ^ "Interview: Frank Bach of Monk Talks 'Dark Side of the Mind'". New Noise. April 2025. Retrieved September 2, 2025.
- ^ "Monk – Giving Back". Monk.la. Retrieved September 2, 2025.
- ^ "Forever Wildland Fest to take place this November". New Noise. October 2023. Retrieved September 2, 2025.