Monument

Exploring "The First Monument" by Monument

Released in October 1971 under Beacon Records, "The First Monument" is a heavy progressive rock album that showcases the underground sounds of UK proto-metal and occult rock. This release, cataloged as BEAS 15, is attributed to the band Monument, yet its true origins lie with the group Zior. To navigate restrictive contracts with Nepentha/Philips, Zior adopted the Monument name and credited much of the songwriting to “Steve Lowe,” a pseudonym derived from Keith Bonsor's wife's maiden name.

Recording and Production

The album was recorded at Regent Sound Studios on Denmark Street in London. This session took place during a wild, all-night recording spree, capturing the raw energy of the band. Bill Farley, the founder of Regent Sound, produced the album alongside Keith Bonsor. The result is a collection of ten tracks that deliver a blend of heavy rock and blues influences, marked by the haunting sound of the Hammond organ and heavy guitar riffs.

Musical Style and Themes

Musically, "The First Monument" is characterized by its fuzz-drenched sound and eerie atmospheres. The opening track, "Dog Man," sets a dark tone, which persists throughout the album. Tracks like "Stale Flesh" and "Don't Run Me Down" exemplify the heavy blues-rock stomps that punctuate the release. The presence of the Hammond organ adds a distinct flavor, aligning the music with contemporaries such as Black Sabbath and Atomic Rooster.

The lyrics often explore themes of the occult and the macabre, evident in songs like "The Metamorphis Tango" and "Boneyard Bumne." This thematic choice complements the heavy instrumentation, creating a cohesive sound that resonates with the darker side of rock music during this era.

Lineup and Credits

The lineup features Keith Bonsor on lead vocals, Hammond organ, piano, and harmonica, while John Truba plays lead and rhythm electric guitars. Barry Skeels contributes on bass guitar, and Peter Brewer handles drums and percussion. The combination of these musicians under the Monument name resulted in an album that captures a unique moment in early 1970s rock.

Ultimately, "The First Monument" serves as an underground artifact from a time when bands were experimenting with sound and style, pushing the boundaries of rock music. The album was produced by Bill Farley and Keith Bonsor, and it was recorded in London, UK, in 1971.