A2W: Monarchs
Man it’s been a hot minute since we’ve run an Austin artist to watch feature hasn’t it? Well now that the craziness of SXSW is over, let’s get back on the local hype machine wagon with a spotlight on Austin band Monarchs. You can’t exactly call this group a straight up solo project, but leading lady Celeste Griffin is the primary songwriter/founder/manger/jack of all trades in the group. Griffin, a recent transplant from Alabama, evokes a lyrical and vocal style similar to modern songwriters like Cat Power or Lissie while occasionally mixing in some old school twang elements along the lines of maybe Patty Griffin. The grit and emotion in Griffin’s voice is generally the primary focus on the Monarch’s first two self-released EPs, and after a few listens, you’ll see why such a captivating voice is the backbone of this band. Stylistically, Monarchs bring classical elements of southern blues while incorporating some subtle yet slick guitar and piano solos here and there. I’ll save anymore comparisons here and just let you listen for yourself with track “Come On and Move Me” below. Stay tuned for information on the band’s upcoming debut LP being recorded with famous local producer Mike McCarthy. We look forward to it.
Download: Monarchs – Come On And Move Me [MP3]