MONO :: 'OATH'

I have watched MONO so many times, and it is still about the only band that I'd watch again and again and again. This time in Singapore, they showcased their twelfth studio album 'OATH' (released in June 2024), produced by their long-time collaborator, the late Steve Albini (July 1962 to May 7, 2024).

The inspiration for 'OATH' came from a place of loss for everyone, of memories and the past, and the present, and the music made everything even more poignant this year as we move into this season of life. This year marked the 25th anniversary of the band. Wow! MONO has been around for decades! I grew up with their soundscapes. I've loved them for ages, since their debut album 'Under the Pipal Tree' (2001).

MONO did an Asia tour for 'OATH'. I wouldn't have minded going up to Bangkok to catch it, but since I would rather stay in town, I couldn't be more pleased that they made a stop in Singapore at Esplanade Waterfront Theatre. It's a beautiful venue that could totally showcase their sound and all that reverb, distortion and delay. It's a sonic expedition like no other. 

My seat was right up at the stage. I couldn't be bothered to sit in the middle or near the sound booth where sound is always the 'best' at gigs. I wanted to SEE the musicians. Also, there aren't any vocals. It doesn't matter. Ear plugs are a must at MONO's shows. But I took them out at various points just to feel the blast of the amps and all the different layers of instruments coming through. The final encore song 'Everlasting Light' (2009, 'Hymn to the Immortal Wind') was dedicated to the late Steve Albini.

Tonight, MONO performed with a 12-piece orchestra, featuring local and international musicians. Of course. I didn't think they would lug 12 additional humans plus gear along. The French horns, trumpets, trombone, violins, cello, etc. The orchestral arrangements were superbly matched to the band's music. Bravo to the musicians. 

25 years. Since the band began in 1999. They haven't lost their touch at all. They could still compose, didn't lose inspiration or sight of their music. And most of all, they could play and put on a show. And what a show we saw tonight in Singapore. This is the penultimate realm of post-rock and contemporary classical. Absolutely stunning. Intense and moving. 

WHAT AN EPIC NIGHT.