Mark Monaco:  Alternate Frequency by: Jeff Hightower

Somewhere on the road between Nashville and San Antonio your going to see a sign that says "Live Tonight – Mark Monaco". The reason I know this is because Mark Monaco is the future of country music. After listening to his latest album "Alternate Frequency" there is no doubt that he draws the line that separates the boys from the true bad-asses in music. Let’s take a look at his new album and see what makes it one of the best country albums I’ve heard in a long time. First, we hear the static of an old radio to set the mood. From there you’re hit with "Bottle Rocket". The groove-rocking opener that sets the tone for the album, with its southern rock/country sound that puts all the ladies out on the dance floor. Next, Mark puts together a well-rounded traditional feel that takes you back to the good ol’ days of country with "Time For This Old Cowboy To Run" and "Forever Ain’t As Long As It Used To Be". In both of these songs, it seems he’s found the correct formula to produce that classic country sound. We get to see a glimpse of the outlaw side in Mark with "Ten Miles Short of Paradise", a song about a Bonnie and Clyde couple making their run for the border. And for those country ballads that let a woman know just how much she means, Mark lets loose with "Woman I Know" and "She Takes The Fight Out Of Me". Guaranteed to pack the floor with slow dancing couples. If you’re feeling a little froggy, you can choose from either version of "Nobody Better". One for that funky rock scene and one for the petal-to-the-metal crowd. Either one will have you screaming for more. And just when you need more, honky-tonk meets rock-n-roll with "Stranger in Town". But that isn’t it by a long shot. In the tradition of those Sunday morning gospels, you’ll enjoy the style and vocal abilities that Mark and the boys showcase in "I. John". To round things down you’re given a bouquet of "Rocellous Flower". This is a building epic of a slow song that whispers in your mind for days later. And like all great musician, Mark brings it back home with a complete stripped down "Some Nights I’m A King", just to show that when it’s all said and done he's a man with his guitar putting in his miles. The production of the album is excellent. It definitely showcases Mark’s writing and playing abilities. Sometimes you come across that artist who has a little something extra they bring to the table. "Alternate Frequency" is a big boost of excitement in a preprocessed country genre. Well-rounded and seasoned Mark pours years of being a road warrior coupled with raw talent to put together a definite chart topper. So if your on that road and see a sign, pull in and prepare for the ultimate country experience. CDs can be purchased at www.markmonaco.com.

Click here to visit MarkMonaco.com or Mark Monaco on Myspace

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