Monkey Underneath

STM Recording artists Ism is a quartet of artists that include Andre Mistier, Mike HIggins, Geard Toriello, and Leigh Battle. They are in the midst of finding the light of popularity and success after the releasing their breakout single, track#7 "Breathe". They are continuing to capitalize on the momentum by giving us the full effect of the album. The band combines smart lyrics delivered with high emotion and elements of electro-rock, producing a well-layered blend that is showcased in the energy of the band's live performances.

According to their biography, Monkey Underneath finds dreams and discovery with a haunting, melodic sound of rock, electronica, trip-hop and industrial combination. Their epic lyrics weave all the elements of the music they represent. Currently, this new album is #3 most added CD at CMJ Radio Stations across the country. The full CD has entered the top 200 at #102.

As I listened to the full CD, my first impression was an almost alternative rock sound that would be included in a soundtrack of a zombie or 70's type movie. Track #1, "Beside The Sun", sounds like someone in a club partying twisting sounds from a guitar and keyboard to bass drums and electrifying riffs over vocals. I picture a zombie type of club atmosphere.

I also enjoyed how track #2 "Wake Up, Write it Down", switches from aggression to being mid-tempo rock. It has pulsating pickup in the middle of the track during a guitar solo and then it goes back to the normal sound. On selection #4, "Can't Explain", is more of a subtle message of the artist not being able to explain what's inside his head. It is somewhat of a slow rock love song that still display mildly aggressive guitar and drum play. The next track, the title track "Monkey Underneath" is a slower, simpler sound with substance of the artist emotions. Toward the end of the CD, track #9 "Out of the Way", starts off suspenseful and kicks in to a combination of mid-tempo rock, soft lyrics that sounds difficult to discuss. I also hear occasional guitar riffs that give the track some life beyond the words. This album is consistent throughout and should receive more attention. It sounds like it would reach most clubs and radio that play rock, alternative, or electronica type hits.

Also on their biography, we also learn a little about them individually. For example Andre Mistier (vocals/guitar) began his musical career at age five with the piano. By high school, he bagan incorporating jazz and blues into his musicanship. Prior to his work with Ism, Andre produced two albums, directed and produced 15 stage plays, like "As You Like It" in New York City. Then, Mike Higgins (drums/percussion) is a classically and jazz trained musician. He started at age 10 and has played with more than a dozen bands. He has toured Europe with a Symphony Orchesta and participated in more than 50 recording sessions in all genres. His influences include Copland, Beauford, Gadd, Mullen Jr. and Bohnam to name a few. Gerard Toriello has played with several bands as both a bassist and guitarist. He is the son of a former bassist of Royal Teens and received is first guitar at age 11, not too long after a Whitesnake concert. Although he has a BS in Chemical Engineering, it was not a passion like the guitar or bass was and he packed up for New York City. Lastly, Leigh Battle (bass/guitar), decided at age 12 to play the guitar. Following the advise of his older brother, he leared the bass and has played with various bands ever since. His most memerable moment was playing in front of a sold-out crowd with band Beyond Mirth. His influences are the Red Hot Chili Peppers, Led Zeppelin, Rage Against the Machine, and Jacob Pastorias.