The Monks – Black Monk Time

Description

Released exclusively in Germany in March 1966, Black Monk Time by The Monks has become a cult classic praised as a groundbreaking forerunner to punk and krautrock. Though the album was overlooked at the time,its bold sound and sharp lyrics have earned it lasting influence and critical acclaim.

The Monks were five American G.I.s stationed near Heidelberg, West Germany. Originally performing as atypical beat group under the name the 5 Torquays, they evolved into something far more radical. Afterdiscovering guitar feedback by accident and embracing a raw, percussive approach, they caught the attentionof two German ad menWalther Niemann and Karl Remywho became their managers and helped reinventtheir identity.

Dressed in monks’ robes with tonsured hair and noose neckties, the band developed a confrontational, rhythmheavy sound. Nowhere is this clearer than in the albums opening track, Monk Time, which captures their entireaesthetic in under three minutes. A pounding, repetitive groove of bass and drums anchors the track, layered withdistorted guitar bursts, percussive electric banjo, chaotic organ stabs, and unrestrained, shouted vocals. Its adeclaration of intenturgent, jarring, and unforgettable.

Their sole studio album, produced by Jimmy Bowien and recorded in Cologne in late 1965, defied musical norms.

From the explosive opener Monk Time to the fierce Complication, Black Monk Time rejected flower power forsomething more urgentanger, humor, and innovation.

At the time, Polydor Records deemed the music too radical for American audiences, delaying its U.S. release.

Despite its initial commercial failure, the album is now seen as a pivotal moment in rock historyloud, strange,and unapologetically ahead of its time. The Monks’ story is as unlikely as their sound: five ex-soldiers and two adexecutives creating one of the most daring records of the 60s. The band never sparked the revolution they hintedat, but decades later, Black Monk Time still resonates. This is your chance to experience the album that dared tobe different – dont miss it.

Remastered sound from the tapes, pressed on 180g vinyl.

Tracklist:

Side A

1. MONK TIME

2. SHUT UP

3. BOYS ARE BOYS AND GIRLS ARE CHOICE

4. HIGGLE-DY PIGGLE-DY

5. I HATE YOU

6. OH, HOW TO DO NOW

Side B

1. COMPLICATION

2. WE DO WIE DU

3. DRUNKEN MARIA

4. LOVE CAME TUMBLIN DOWN

5. BLAST OFF!

6. THATS MY GIRL