January 16th, 2013 
Brian Leak 
Artist: Monks of Mellonwah
Album: Neurogenesis EP
Genre: Rock, Alternative
For fans of: Incubus, Staind, Band of Skulls
Having just been awarded “Best Indie Rock Band” at the Artists In Music Awards in Los Angeles, as well as receiving three nominations at the LA Music Awards 2012, Australian alternative rock quartet, Monks of Mellonwah, have already made a name for themselves in just the three short years since their inception. The band is currently prepping their debut full-length album with legendary producer Keith Olsen, but in the meantime we have their second extended play, Neurogenesis, to tide us over.
The EP initially approaches calmly with its longest offering, the title track, and although it’s nearly five minutes in length, it manages to not drag on and seem as though it’s reaching beyond what it’s able. “Neurogenesis” features smooth, ethereal guitar work and a simple driving drum beat accompanied by heavier choruses boasting an evident emotion in vocalist Vikram Kaushik’s lyrical delivery – “We used our hands / we took our time / you made me yours / I made you mine” – while they may not be the most profound words put to song, they’re declared with a notion that forces their credibility.
The second track, “Neverending Spirit,” is likely the EP’s most accessible with a fun groove and catchy sound akin to that of Incubus or Red Hot Chili Peppers. However, Josh Baissari’s drumming is distracting as it’s lacking any real expansion beyond a simplex beat, and at times actually sounds off tempo, whereas the other instruments involved have a little more to offer, ultimately making the drums stand out in a somewhat negative light. I do, however, give credit to the drummer as you can actually hear the passion in his work.
Neurogenesis‘ third offering is a more funky affair with an alert, upbeat energy. “Kyoto” certainly makes you want to move, being a halfway point dance tune with a subtle aggression, yet once again the drums are slightly off, but luckily it’s warranted more so with “Kyoto” due to the driving guitar riffs and assertive vibe.
The band relaxes a bit after “Kyoto” with “You Shine” which is first and foremost a vocal focus. Backed by light drum fills and more atmospheric guitar soundscapes, the song coaxes you to close your eyes and accept a comfort from Kaushik’s conviction. “You Shine” has a very post-rock vibe with thanks mainly to the guitar and bass playing by Joe and John de la Hoyde, respectively. “You Shine” is quickly followed by the EPs final contribution; a radio edit of the opening title track — which is roughly a minute-and-a-half shorter than its fuller selection — and fades out, concluding the 19-minute EP.
Monks Of Mellonwah haven’t broken any boundaries with Neurogenesis. In fact, if you don’t appreciate familiarity or standard rock formulas, this certainly isn’t for you. However, if you enjoy a solid sound and can look past a few minor flaws musically, you may very much enjoy these five tracks. Although it’s not necessarily the next best thing, the Monks show promise with Neurogenesis but they have a lot of evolving to do on future efforts if they want to stay relevant in rock.
SCORE: 6.5/10
Review written by: Brian Lion – Follow him on Twitter
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