Members
Select a The Monochrome Set band member to check out the music gear they use live and in the studio.
About
The Monochrome Set is a pioneering English band, known for their unique blend of new wave, indie rock, post-punk, and jangle pop. Formed in London in 1978, the group was created by former members of the band B-Sides, including Bid (vocals, guitar) and Lester Square (guitar). The original lineup also featured Jeremy Harrington (bass) and J.D. Crowe (drums), with Andy Warren (bass) joining later. The Monochrome Set has a reputation for their witty and urbane take on post-punk, infused with elements of '60s pop and surf music. Their early work, such as the debut single "He's Frank," set the stage for their smart, hook-laden sound, which they continued to develop across numerous albums.
How to Sound Like The Monochrome Set
The Monochrome Set's sound is characterized by its crisp, jangly guitar tones and witty, clever songwriting. Their music often features a tight, rhythmic interplay between guitars and bass, creating catchy, melodic hooks. To capture their sound, one might focus on using clean, bright guitar settings, perhaps enhanced by analog delay pedals to add depth and dimension. The band's rhythm section provides a steady, driving groove, with drums that maintain a snappy, articulate presence. This combination of elements results in a sound that is both sophisticated and accessible, making use of subtle dynamics and textural contrasts to highlight their intricate arrangements and engaging melodies.
Discography
Compendium 75-95
1979
Volume, Contrast, Brilliance: Sessions & Singles, Vol. 1
1979
Strange Boutique
1980
Love Zombies
1980
Fin
1985
Dante's Casino
1990
Eligible Bachelors
1991
Jack
1991
The Good Life
1992
What a Whopper!
1992
Charade
1993
Misere
1994
Tomorrow Will Be Too Long
1995
Black and White Minstrels: 1975-1979
1996
Trinity Road
2006
Westminster Affair: Bande Originale du Film
2006
He's Frank... We're The Monochrome Set
2010
Platinum Coils
2012
M80 Concert
2013
Super Plastic City
2014
Spaces Everywhere
2015
Cosmonaut
2016
The Lost Weekend (Expanded Edition)
2016
Volume, Contrast, Brilliance: Unreleased & Rare, Vol. 2
2017
Maisieworld
2018
Fabula Mendax
2019
Allhallowtide
2022
Radio Sessions (Marc Riley BBC6 Music 2011-2022)
2023
Get the The Monochrome Set Sound
Want to sound like The Monochrome Set? This gear comes straight from the setups of the band's members, based on proven sources. Dive into each artist's page for more detail and inspiration.
