Monotronic is a collection of musicians based in New York City that blend a wide array of genres and styles to produce a unique sound of their own.
Please list all of your band members and their roles in the band.
Ramsey Elkholy: Songwriter-band leader, guitar, lap steel, Adam Ahuja: keys, vocals, Devin Collins: drums, live electronics, Alex Hayes: bass, vocals, songwriting
For starters, what bands were you guys a part of prior to Monotronic? How long has the band been around?
Monotronic was founded by guitarist/producer Ramsey Elkholy.
Ramsey Elkholy: former anthropologist and jungle explorer (purchase book here)
Adam Ahuja: Robert Randolph, Meatloaf
Devin Collins: Elliott Moss
Alex Hayes: Monotronic
What’s the origin of that name and have you changed the band’s name before?
The name Monotronic captures the "hybrid" quality of the band, which fuses electronic elements with a jam band vibe.
Who writes your songs? What are the main themes or topics for most of your songs and do you think these topics will change over time?
Ramsey Elkholy is principal songwriter, he writes most of the music and lyrics; and Alex Hayes also writes lyrics, particularly on our debut album.
What bands are currently inspiring the music that you’re making?
Too many influences to name. We all grew up listening to bands like Nirvana, Led Zeppelin, etc. and listening to lots of jazz as well. Daft Punk is a more modern influence. Other influences include electronic music and EDM.
Was there a particular band/artist or concert that inspired you to start a band?
The Grateful Dead's live music has had a huge influence on me and Jerry Garcia has the greatest influence on me as a guitarist.
What do you do to prepare for a show? Any flexing, exercises, etc …
In NYC the line checks are a bit rushed, so we are mostly concerned with making sure that everything sounds ok and we can all hear each other ok, no equipment malfunctions, etc.
What has been the biggest highlight of the band’s career so far?
Releasing this album I would say, 2 years in the making!
If you could tour with any bands, past or present, who would they be and why?
Many of the Jam Bands like Papadosio, Disco Biscuits, STS9, etc. have pretty big live followings that I think would dig our music.
Is there anything else you would like to add?
Monotronic is a collection of musicians based in New York City that blend a wide array of genres and styles to produce a unique sound of their own. The band was founded in 2016 by acclaimed guitarist Ramsey Elkholy, who is also the band's leader and primary song writer. Other personnel include Adam Ahuja on keyboard and vocals, Devin Collins on drums and live electronics, and Alex Hayes on bass guitar and vocals. Their sound can best be described as a mix of electronic music with strong world music influences. Monotronic has been featured in several music publications, and has performed at many prestigious venues and festivals.
Monotronic has played in venues such as The Knitting Factory, Mercury Lounge, Bowery Electric, Nectar's, 8x10, Arlene's Grocery, Garcia’s at The Capitol Theatre, Rockwood Music Hall, Pianos and the Bitter End. They have also performed at outdoor music festivals such as Disc Jam and Meeting of the Minds.