A blast of happy fun time, The Monolators make "sweet punk"- simple ditties that charge forth with manic energy but aren't trying to pretend they can solve the world's problems (thank you!).  The approach is somewhat reminiscent of the Young Fresh Fellows, though not quite as tongue-in-cheek as that band could be, in that they infuse raw energy into short songs with melodies and lyrics that seem wide-eyed and innocent.

This is the perfect band for a New Year's Eve party.  No whining about problems from the past year.  Just optimistic, propulsive music you can shout to the sky. 

The group is led by Eli Chartkoff (vocals, guitar) and Mary Chartkoff (insanely intense drums), with Tom Bogdon (lead guitar) and Ashley Jex (bass).  For this session, they were also joined on keyboards by Jillinda Palmer, who is in a number of LA bands, including the breakups, I Make This Sound, and The Henry Clay People.  Ashley Jex also runs a really fine LA music blog, Rock Insider.

Long live The Monolators!  Session videos below.