A lot has changed for Rare Monk over the last few years. Their very first release, the Death By Proxy EP back in 2013, dotted them on Portland’s indie rock map, with 2015’s self titled EP locking them in place. But as with any classic band story, things got a bit iffy for the Rare Monk in the months to come. They’ve reached a point now where that iffiness has turned into a stable, fully developed sound that fits the band perfectly.
Rare Monk’s most advantageous change came along with their shifted lineup. What started out at a 5-piece with an entirely different guitarist and violinist has now become a 4-piece focusing more on expansive guitar lines and complimenting harmonies thanks to the addition of lead guitarist/vocalist Hugh Jepson.
Along with Dorian Aites (vox, violin, keys, guitar), Rick Buhr on drums and Forest Gallien on bass, the foursome have based their summer release No Future on the lack of control humans have over their personal and collective futures. It’s experimental indie rock with a dystopian base that’s all sorts of enjoyable for how poignant its theme is.
See Rare Monk perform No Future tomorrow at Bunk Bar for a show they’re playing with New York trio Wilsen.