It’s a long way from Venice Beach, California to the outskirts of Dundalk on a balmy September night. But that’s where the latest West Coast/Irish outfit find themselves on their biggest Irish tour to date.
With the combined vocal, guitar and song-writing talents of Dubliner Annmarie Cullen and Californian Cynthia Catania fronting a deft rhythm section, these Monkys have been likened to everyone from The Pretenders to Belly. But it’s clear that this pair of unashamed rock chicks have developed their own unique take on a well-worn blueprint.
It’s not just down to the songs, which are intelligent, jangly, melodic and trashy – all at the same time – ‘Seven Days’ and ‘Don’t Wanna Know Your Name’ being two particular highlights. Saucy Monky are tight as hell, with glorious harmonies and nicely choreographed moves bringing an energy and all round sense of fun to their live show. And with a mischievous tendency to argue and disagree among themselves onstage (we all love a good cat-fight don’t we guys) it almost makes you wish they all could be California girls (sorry!).
Earlier on Nick Kelly, did his usual thought-provoking thing while special guest Naimee Coleman appears to have made the transition from dance/pop diva to singularly impressive singer-songwriter. Special mention for The Spirit Store – surely the most music- friendly venue in the country (just don’t switch on your mobile phone here if you value your life!)