The Who’s There to Hear Me Out Tour recently kicked off, featuring the Canadian rock sensation, MONOWHALES, as they embark on a thrilling musical journey across both the US and Canada. In the spirit of their inaugural foray into the American music scene, I had the remarkable opportunity to sit down with the dynamic trio behind MONOWHALES: Sally Shaar, Jordan Circosta, and Zach Zanardo.

Our conversation dug into the various facets of their journey, including their experiences on the road, their latest musical ventures, and the excitement of their US debut. We even explored their eager anticipation of indulging in White Castle for the very first time.

HOT, FRESH, and LOUD. When asked to summarize this tour and the essence of MONOWHALES in just three words, Zach fittingly chose "hot," Sally described it as "fresh," and Jordan fittingly opted for "loud." I couldn't agree more with this succinct description. MONOWHALES radiate boundless energy, and their music takes listeners on a rollercoaster of emotions and rock vibes.

One aspect that particularly excited MONOWHALES was the culture of smaller, more intimate clubs in the US. Zach expressed, "The culture of regular patrons coming to these shows... it's truly refreshing." These intimate venues create an atmosphere of excitement and passion that resonates with both the band and their fans. Throughout the shows, MONOWHALES actively engaged with the audience, with fans dancing fervently in the front rows and singing along in unison. It's a shared experience that transcends the stage, uniting everyone in an electrifying moment of musical connection.

The band has cultivated a devoted and passionate fanbase. Jordan shared a heartwarming story about a fan who found solace in their music during a challenging divorce, describing the meeting as a deeply emotional bonding experience. Sally pointed out the significance of fans sporting MONOWHALES tattoos and remarked, "Every night, there's an incredible fan experience." With a touch of humor, Zach mentioned that some fans even toss tortillas at them - a testament to their unique and lively following.

When asked about their favorite songs to perform live, the band had some exciting choices. Zach expressed his love for "Alive Now," a track from their 2018 EP, which he says brings back fond memories. Jordan and Sally both had a soft spot for their latest single, "Backbone," a song that delivers an emotional punch and encapsulates the spirit of MONOWHALES.

Sally explained, "Playing newer material is always a blast because it's fresh. There's an infectious energy on stage, it's emotionally charged, and it makes us feel like total badasses." It's evident that the band draws inspiration and energy from their latest songs, ensuring that every show is a unique and unforgettable experience.

Delving deeper into “Backbone,” it's a song with a profound message that deeply resonates with Sally. She described it as a song that is "very therapeutic to sing" and highlighted how it speaks to many of her feelings today. The band's emotional connection to the song shines through in their performances, creating a moving and powerful experience for their audience.

Before the show, MONOWHALES shared one of their pre-show traditions with me: stacking their hands atop each other’s and reciting the phrase "tough times never last, only tough people" with a playful sound as they pulled their hands apart. When inquiring about the origin of this ritual, they shared how it was inspired by a beloved internet video. Their friend Phil Kulba sent them the video daily, adding a sentimental and cherished touch to the ritual.

As I stepped into the Big Room Bar, the Columbus-based band Unseen Keys set the stage with their high-energy performance. Glimmers continued the energy, leaving the crowd eager for MONOWHALES to take the stage. In our earlier conversation, Jordan mentioned, "We've been fortunate to have high-caliber support bands on this tour."

These opening acts set the perfect tone with powerful vocals and boundless energy, creating a dynamic atmosphere that left the audience buzzing with anticipation. It's clear that MONOWHALES deeply value the artists they tour with and the musicians they introduce to each city, often watching from the crowd themselves. Their humility and passion for music shine through in these moments.

MONOWHALES' live performance was nothing short of a spectacular display of power and boundless energy. From the moment they hit the stage, they exude a vibrant presence that immediately captures the audience's attention. Their music, not just a sonic experience but a deep dive into meaningful lyrics and emotional depth, resonated profoundly with the audience, forging an unbreakable bond between the band and their fans. With each note, they infuse the crowd with a contagious enthusiasm that keeps the energy soaring throughout the entire performance. Their on-stage charisma is magnetic, making every show a thrilling and memorable experience.

If you're on the lookout for a rock show that not only thrills and tugs at your heartstrings, MONOWHALES is a must-see act. Their live performance is an electrifying odyssey that promises a sensational experience, making it an event you absolutely cannot afford to miss. Catch them as they continue to set stages ablaze across the US and Canada throughout the year.

To secure your own tickets and catch MONOWHALES live, visit their official website at https://www.monowhales.com/tour.

photos by Antonina Schubert