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]
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]
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]
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]