Rock, Monk and Roll
The next day, we went to soundchecks, and to an interview for a Germany TV station, which was on the 6th floor of the Mousontaum (the building the Monks are playing in). They had the Monks sit on the ledge around the roof area of the building, and only six inches of ledge and a small, 3-inch high trim rested between the Monks and a 6-story drop. The effect was cool - Monks with Frankfurt's skyline in the background, but I think we were all - the Monks included - were a little nervous.
For the second show in Frankfurt, I was able to rent a camera. Yes, RENT a camera! Super cool, I rented the Canon 30D, a $2500 camera, for one night. Love it, really, really love it. Honestly, that’s all I got to see of Frankfurt, because we left for Gelnhausen the very next day. I didn’t get to see the museums or any dance clubs, but honestly I don’t think I missed much else in Frankfurt. Germans are apparently (according to the ones I talked to) very divided on that city, they either really love it or really hate it, not much in between.
The show at Mouson was amazing, the Monks played to a big, and very enthusiastic crowd, and their sound was dead on. Yes, I say again, after 40 years they still kick serious ass! With more room to roam on stage, a good lighting crew and good sound, it was a fantastic and energetic show. I'm not saying it was better than the Krems show, that one was fantastic as well. Just different. Personally, my two cents? Vocals were better in Krems, energy was higher in Frankfurt. Both had great aspects, both shows were at the top of my music-viewing career. I mean, I was in Germany and Austria with the MONKS, watching the MONKS play. How much better can it get?
We didn't get to know the crew as well in this venue, because we were really in and out over the course of just one day. Soundchecks, interviews, show, all in the space of 12 hours. It was definitely more more "big-city" production than Krems. The two are really somewhat incomparable, as the circumstances are so different.
After the show was over, the Monks gave their fans a solid hour-plus of signings, handshakes, photo-taking and general good vibes. We then packed up and headed back to the Bristol, to hang out in the 24 hour bar for an after party, until oh maybe 4 in the morning. It was a fabulous time I talked at length with several people, including the super-intelligent and sweetly shy Wendy, and the energetic Brigitte, an original Monks fan from the 1960s.
The next morning, a quick breakfast in the very posh restaurant with Dietmar and Lucia Post (makers of the Monks documentary), and it was time for goodbyes. Most of the gang headed back to their homes on that day (Montag, or Monday, October 16). Only myself, Gary and Cindy, and Dave and Irene would head on to Gelnhausen, while Eddie and Sherrie were off to Heidelberg for a few days R&R (rest and relaxation this time, not rock n roll). Honestly, I hate goodbyes, but these were good ones. Many good friends made in just 6 short days.
I am still curious to hear from Len about his 22 hour flight over the Arctic Circle.
Anyway, for those interested in following a few Monks back to their old haunt in Gelnhausen (where the original incarnation, the Torquays, were born), read on!
Goodbye, Frankfurt. Next up, Gelnhausen! -->