The latest edition of Gimme Five finds Preston Frazier digging into a handful of favorites from Monkey House:
“THE FUTURE IS ALMOST GONE,” from REMEMBER THE AUDIO (2022): New Monkey House? Yes, thank you! The first tease from Monkey House’s Remember the Audio is a sheer delight. House leader Don Breithaupt hooks you with an infectious shuffle, tasty Rhodes-like piano passages, and complex harmonies. Sure there’s a lot to unpack with the gorgeous horns, synthesizers and lyrics, which beg for repeated listening. Breithaupt strings together songs that are clever yet contemporary, while adding musical gravitas which would please his Steely Dan-obsessed fans.
“THE JAZZ LIFE,” featuring Manhattan Transfer, from FRIDAY (2019): Friday, a stunning album with one classic after another, never disappoints. Initially, I thought “The Jazz Life” was a gimmick to rope in Manhattan Transfer fans. Now I appreciate the melding of these sophisticated chords, direct and engaging lyrics, and the unique vocal gifts of the Manhattan Transfer. Also, who doesn’t love a bass solo? Hey, I’m a slow learner.
“WHEN THE KID COMES HOME,” from LEFT (2016): Tight, funny and full of craftsmanship, “When the Kid Comes Home” is one of my favorites from Monkey House’s Left album. The horns soar, the backing vocals seem like they were recorded during a studio party and the song, with its expressive tenor solos and righteous rhythm section, expresses more joy than you are used to getting in a modern pop song.
“I’M NOT THAT GUY” from RETROSPECTIVE (2013): Originally recorded for the 2012’s Headquarters and released on the expansive Retrospective a year later, “I’m Not That Guy” packs quite a punch. The instrumental theme is established by a straightforward bass and drum stock rhythm, with Breithaupt offering lyrical solid affirmation. Touches of sitar and clavinet add to the drama and the turnaround in the song only increases the mystery. The guitar and organ break down further enhances this song and makes my wonder why the song didn’t make it on to Headquarters.
“WHERE’S MANTIS EVAR,” from HEADQUARTERS (2012): Written by Don and Jeff Breithaupt, “Where’s Mantis Evar” combines many elements of the duo’s writing modus operandi in a rock setting. The song, which originally appeared on Monkey House’s 2011 release Headquarters, is a gem. Don Breithhaupt’s vocals are tasteful and smooth, highlighting the complex yet accessible lyrics of Jeff Breithaupt. The music evokes the timeless West Coast ’80s vibe on a Pages or Toto album — an atmosphere only enhanced by the appearance of guitar player Drew Zingg. The former Steely Dan and sometime Boz Scaggs sideman steps in with an understated solo, highlighting the arrangement and production talents of Don Breithaupt, while never stepping on Jeff’s lyrics.
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