Lost Monarchs - Eye on the Sun

Lost Monarchs

Eye on the Sun
​self-released; 2019

3.8 out of 5

By Jamie Funk

Ben Ringgenberg (vocals/bass guitar/harmonica), Dallas Wade (vocals/guitar), Bob Salihar (vocals,guitar), and Eddy Henderson (drums) are Lost Monarchs. We reviewed the band's eponymous release and they are now back with Eye on the Sun.

Apparently the album is about the band's own journey. They explain, “This album represents and describes the journey the band members took to meet each other and eventually create the band that is Lost Monarchs.”

They bring together warm textures and tones, and a psychedelic sense of discovery on this album. I was reminded of bands as far ranging as the Grateful Dead, Santana and The Eagles. They start off very strong with the track “Nothing Said.” The vocals are really catchy and sing-along worthy. Additionally, the sentiment is positive and hopeful. Ringgenberg sings, “Morning is coming it’s gonna be alright / Blue skies or grey sunshine or rain.”

“Hollywood Lady” felt very much in the vein of many classic rock songs. You remember Morrison singing about an L.A woman and Hendrick singing about a Foxy Lady. That was sort of a thing in the ’60s and I was instantly reminded of that.

“I'm Just an Angel” is very jam band sounding. They have some that reggae wah effect going on as well. “Shake the Booze” has a good amount of attitude. There is this Easy Rider vibe on this song. The folk inspired “East of the Ocean” features impressive vocal harmonies and reverb laced lead guitar while “San Andreas” is a psychedelic whirlwind with a blaring guitar solo.

“Dream I Know” is super slick. It has that subdued ’70s funk love. The closer “Land of Endless Summer” was the catchiest song. It’s on the verge of ’50s pop/surf.

​The band is very obviously influenced by older music. On that note it's also music that is best experienced live, on a summer night with some possible conscious expanding substances. Get on board the gravy train and take a listen.

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