The Monkey Man

"I'm sure most bands' opinions of soundchecks would differ, but I have always liked the vibe and looseness of a soundcheck. That’s where this piece started, the initial intention was a nod to the soundcheck.

Almost as soon as the soundcheck idea came to mind, I knew I had to reference the most rock 'n’ roll soundcheck experience and one of my all-time favorite rock stories from the mid-90s.

I was lucky enough to be in attendance for one of my favorite bands of all time at a music festival in Penticton B.C. The start of the session wasn’t too different from all the others, except that their charismatic lead man hadn’t yet arrived. The band lost the member the night before in Kelowna and had no idea where he was (this was before cell phones were an everyday item). He eventually showed in classic rock star fashion—in a limo with a few female fans in tow. As he took the stage, I noticed he only had on one boot and was mumbling and 'humming' (see what I did there) somewhat incoherently to get the mic sounds required.

Rest assured, a few hours later he came out and put on the most blistering performance I’ve ever witnessed. That’s as rock star as it gets."

 -Stickman