Preview of Monarchy at XOYO.
As far as first gigs go, I can think of worse things than being beamed into space from Cape Canaveral. Dingy bars where about five people show up – one of which is your Mum – are usually the starting point for most bands, but Monarchy are something different. Okay, so the synth duo weren't launched into space from a cannon playing the keyboard and drum machine from their space suits but the gig was broadcast into space and that's the first time that's ever been done..
Slightly less ground breaking shows at Elektrowerks and The Big Chill Festival followed as the Australian-born, London-based duo continue to make a name for themselves. Remix tracks for pop chart dictators, Ellie Goulding, Kelis, Marina and the Diamonds and Lady Gaga, are also on the pair's CV.
The name might start to become familiar but their faces remain a mystery as they prefer to remain anonymous, commenting that, “artists have become bland and sanitized by the constant broadcast of personal lives.”
The heavily synth-based music is appropriately filled with dreamy space sirens. Ra Black's vocals have enough range to add subtle elements of soul and r&b into what can otherwise be described as 'dance tracks'. Andrew Armstrong's production adds jazz horns but in a far less obvious way than Mark Ronson used to. As a sign of the way in which music is made these days Ra and Andrew met via a mutual friend named Google.
There is more than one string to the bow but the space theme is a constant. Current single ' Love Get Out Of My Way' has a Daft Punk-influenced video. Costumed dancers 'robot' themselves around the screen amid flashing lights on a pristine futuristic chessboard set.
While remaining faceless, Monarchy are cultivating an image for themselves – one that is infinitely more interesting than the swathes of producer/singer combos out there in the field. The taped up faces and head masks are sure to be a memorable part of any show. On Wednesday 22 they come to the recently opened XOYO venue in Old Street.
Clearly excited by the gig, Monarchy's Twitter page reads: “Seems XOYO opening was a little chaotic, but by the time we play on Wednesday the paint should be dry and the power sorted. Bring it on! [x]”
Yes guys, bring it on indeed!
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