Former Ramones drummer Tommy Ramone has a new sound ... and boy is it different. Ramone has gone Bluegrass with his new band Uncle Monk.
Uncle Monk features Ramone and Claudia Tienan.Ramone was a founding member of the Ramones and wrote their signature tunes 'Blitzkreig Pop' and 'I Wanna Be Your Boyfriend'. He has also produced Talking Heads, Redd Kross and The Replacements.
Claudia Tienan was a member of the Simplistics before she formed Uncle Monk with Ramone.
"We are doing what feels natural to us," says Ramone in a statement. "We are making use of string-band instrumentation along with alternative rock flavorings. We're drawn to the classic simplicity of string-band music, but at the same time we are deeply involved with the aesthetics of indie music. There is a similarity between punk and old-time music , both are home-brewed as opposed to schooled. Both have earthy energy. And there is a certain cool in old-time music that is found in the best alternative artists."
The duo's self-titled debut album will be released through indie Airday Records on May 22.
