One Trick Monkey

Unleashed

What do One Trick Monkey and P. Diddy have in common? A vodka endorsement! Yet whereas Sean Combs’ booze affiliation is but one cog in his empire, this fresh Austin group’s adult potable pairing creates literal buzz in a world packed with similar rock outfits. A respectable debut, the eight cuts here present the band’s prog, pop, and metal conduits, ushered by Rhythm Corps lead vocals couched in 1990s anthemic Pacific Northwest rock. Like a sapling – planted, but with support poles – OTM leans on its influences while developing, although the energy on tape suggests more stage power. The relatively low wank factor and interesting arrangements (“Propaganda” and “Unleashed”) also imply that OTM may have more tricks up its sleeve for its being-recorded sophomore release. Could a clothing line be in the works as well?

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This article appears in February 15 • 2008.

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