Monogroove - Echoes In The Glass

Monogroove

Echoes In The Glass
Mostly Chick Records; 2014

3.7 out of 5

By Jamie Funk

Monogroove is a four-piece band from Los Angeles, CA that on their recent release Echoes In The Glass revive the late ‘60s to early ‘70’s folk pop sound mixed in with a decent amount of rock. It's refreshing to hear a contemporary band tipping their hats to this style of 60’s and 70’s music when in recent years it feels like most bands can’t help but play music that is based on ‘60s and ‘70s classic  and garage rock bands. Monogroove has more in common with The Mamas & The Papas, The Monkees and Fleetwood Mac than they do with anything else. The music by all means is built upon the female lead vocals, which carries the songs. That being said, the music provides a rich variety of instrumentation, which in addition to drums, bass and guitars occasionally throws in other elements like horns and a harmonica.

In the current age of streaming services like Spotify coupled with our ADD-ridden society that will not hesitate to skip a song or an entire album since they have a library at their fingertips it a bit surprising Monogroove would release a seventeen-song album. By the 12th song I have to admit I was starting to think they could have released this as two separate albums. The point I'm getting at is that Echoes In The Glass takes a bit of time, dedication and some effort but is worth it. The album contains a lot of gems and I'm sure with this much material people will have their own “favorite” track and highlights. It just might take some digging to figure out yours.

There are a number of tracks that stuck with me. The opener “What More Can I Do” is one of the poppiest songs on the album and contains memorable vocal melodies and harmonies that is a prime example of why they get compared to The Mamas and The Papas.

“When I Wake Up” is a soulful number with some harmonica that isn't to be missed. The addition of piano and sing-along-like vocals made it a highlight for me. As the album progresses other notable songs include “I Look Back,” “War in Pain” and “Goodbye.”

Overall, Echoes In The Glass is a well-written album with a surplus of songs that are a treat to listen to. There really weren't duds amongst the bunch. This album may have a lot of material but what can you do when you keep writing good material. 

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