Powers of the Monk (POM) has done it again. With their latest release, Strip the Bone, the Michigan-based duo—David S. Monk and CasSondra “Pontiac” Powers—has delivered a real gut-punch of a song that shows why these rockers are the real deal. It’s not just music – it’s like getting grabbed by the shirt and shaken awake.
David S. Monk, the band’s vocalist, guitarist, and keyboardist, brings his signature intensity as usual. His guitar work is like lightning in a bottle, with a solo that will make you want to high your speakers and thrash around your living room like a maniac. Monk’s got this crazy ability to be wild and precise at the same time – it’s what makes this song so damn good. Then there’s CasSondra “Pontiac” Powers on vocals and violin. She doesn’t sing much in this one, but when she does? Chills, I tell you.
The minimalist vocal approach—a repeated gimmick rather than a full-blown lyrical narrative—works brilliantly, allowing the instrumentation to take centre stage. It’s a bold move that pays off, proving that sometimes, less really is more.
Producer Dani Macchi, of Italian band Belladonna fame, deserves a shoutout for his role in shaping this track. His production is crisp yet organic, giving Strip the Bone a polished edge without sacrificing its original, rock-n-roll soul. The collaboration between POM and Macchi has clearly hit its stride, and the results speak for themselves.
The song itself is a powerhouse of instrumentation. The drums and bass are pounding, the guitars are wailing – it’s like every part is doing its own crazy dance, but somehow it all fits. You can’t help but get swept up in it. And trust me, you’ll want to hit replay as soon as it’s over.
Strip the Bone shows how far Powers of the Monk have come. This isn’t just background noise. Those guitars are on fire, the vocals will give you chills, and the production? *Chef’s kiss* This is what rock should sound like, folks. If you want something that’ll knock your socks off but still has layers, POM’s got you covered. They’ve hit it out of the park with this one, and you’ll be coming back for more.
Rock on, POM. You’ve outdone yourselves.