Dive into the world of Monolith in this exclusive interview ahead of their performance at Wreck The Halls on Friday night. Explore the band's evolution, from their origin story to the fusion of classic 80’s heavy metal with modern influences. Learn about the transformative impact of vocalist Dan Carleton from Downfall Of Humanity and Monolith's active role in community events, particularly their support for Auckland City Mission. Gain insights into the delicate balance between musical pursuits, full-time jobs, and family commitments. As Monolith unveils their values and journey, the interview holds a surprise for fans – a sneak peek into the much-anticipated upcoming single, 'Warhead,' promising a fresh chapter in Monolith's sonic exploration
ACT UP Entertainment: How did Monolith come together as a band in 2021, and can you share the story behind the formation of the current lineup in 2023?
Monolith: Glen and Steve had been writing a few songs together for a while, and after a couple of false starts and lineup changes, Cam joined in early 2022. This was the beginning of the band in its current form, and after having Steve then Brent West on vocal duties, Dan joined partway through 2023.
ACT UP Entertainment: Could you introduce the current lineup of Monolith and share a bit about each member's background in music or other bands they have been a part of?
Monolith:
Dan: Hey, I'm Dan, lead vocalist and front man for Monolith. I taught myself how to scream as a teenager and have been scaring my neighbors ever since.
Cameron: I’m Cameron, I picked up the sticks when I was 14 and taught myself to play by cranking up Metallica and Pantera and playing along. I was in an original metal band many years ago called Trial By Fire, and a few cover bands since then. Joining Monolith was a chance to get back to writing music I love and hoping to play it to as many people as possible.
Steve: Steve here. I’ve been playing various instruments pretty much all of my life. Monolith is the first band that I’ve played bass as my primary instrument, so there has been a bit of a learning curve there.
Glen: Glen here! I've been playing guitar since an early age, but this is my first time playing guitar in a band. I've played in several other bands on drums before, most recently and currently with Invasion of Piracy, who I’ve been part of on and off for over 10 years. It's been a bit of a shock getting out from behind the drums and up to the front of the stage, but I've loved every minute of it.
ACT UP Entertainment: Monolith has had various singers before Dan Carleton. Can you tell us more about the journey of the band in terms of singers and how it has influenced the evolution of your music?
Monolith: When we first started, we didn't really have a singer, so Steve jumped in to fill the void, but deep down, we felt something was still missing. Then in came Brent West, and he brought with him a whole new level of energy. After Brent left and Dan joined, things certainly took a turn more toward the heavier side of things. We had to adapt our writing style to suit Dan’s vocal range more, as it sits in a lower register than either Brent or Steve.
ACT UP Entertainment: How does Dan Carleton's singing style in Monolith compare to his previous work with Downfall Of Humanity?
Monolith: It's a similar style, and it's a style I really enjoy. I find the contrast between singing and screaming can really add a lot of contrast and emotion to a song.
ACT UP Entertainment: Your bio mentions that Monolith has carved out its own signature sound. How would you describe that sound, especially considering the fusion of various sub-genres within heavy metal?
Monolith: We draw quite heavily from the classic heavy metal of the 80’s but manage to put a modern spin on it. All the members listen to both similar and varied music, so that comes through in the music. A classic metal sound, but with elements taken from genres such as metalcore and melodic death metal. Dynamics are a big part of our sound too, so while we love a heavy riff, we also add some melodic clean parts, which makes the heavy sound even heavier!
ACT UP Entertainment: How do you feel Monolith has evolved musically and as a band since its formation in 2021?
Monolith: When we first started, most of our songs had been written individually, and as we played together more, we began writing to embrace each other's strengths and individual sounds and influences. There have been some tense moments in the songwriting process where we all feel we are pulling in different directions, but we make sure the outcome is something we’re all happy with. We’re definitely writing better songs now than when we started!
ACT UP Entertainment: Juggling being in a band, having full-time jobs, and family commitments can be challenging. How does Monolith manage this balance, and do you have any advice for musicians who are also parents?
Monolith: For me (Dan), I trade nights off with my wife. I get to go to practice and play shows; in return, she gets nights where I stay home, and she gets to go out with her friends. Glen: Having a very understanding family makes a world of difference.
ACT UP Entertainment: What made Monolith decide to participate in Wreck The Halls, and what does it mean for the band?
Monolith: Wreck The Halls is about helping people through a tough time in their lives. Many homeless people suffer from mental illnesses which lead them to a life of instability and eventually the inability to work. As someone who has to deal with their own mental illness, I know how debilitating it can be. While I am thankful for my amazing support team, not everyone is so lucky. If we can make the life of others a little easier, such as knowing when their next meal is coming, I think that really helps.
ACT UP Entertainment: Can you share more about Monolith's initiative to contribute an extra $1 for every pre-purchased ticket to Auckland City Mission, and why it's important for the band to support such causes?
Monolith: It's all about supporting the cause. Everyone's putting in a little extra to help make this event a success, whether that be covering the venue costs, donating prizes, or just digging deep.
ACT UP Entertainment: Are there any plans for new music releases from Monolith in the near future, and what can fans expect from your upcoming work?
Monolith: We have a new single, Warhead, coming out early next year. This is the first single with Dan on vocals, actually with everyone on vocals at one point, so that's exciting. It’s quite a dynamic song, both heavy and melodic, thrashy and crushing, so there’s something everyone will enjoy. We’re also hoping to get a video produced too, although that may take a little longer.
Wreck The Halls
Blood Buffalo, Monolith, Brackenwood Coven and Invasion Of Piracy
Friday 1 December
Ding Dong Loung, 26 Wyndham Street, Auckland
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