Join host Michael James as he dives into one of the earliest albums to anticipate the sound and attitude of punk: Black Monk Time by American garage-rock band The Monks.

Largely ignored upon its release in 1966, nearly a decade before punk emerged as a recognized genre, the album was unlike much of what was happening in rock at the time. Built around pounding rhythms, distorted guitar, unconventional vocals, and a deliberately abrasive sound, Black Monk Time challenged the expectations of what a rock band was supposed to sound like. Though it initially went largely unnoticed, the album eventually developed a devoted cult following and is now considered an important influence on punk and alternative music.

Come listen, learn more about the story behind The Monks, and hear an album that was years ahead of its time.

For over 20 years Michael James was a longtime programmer at WRUW hosting the shows Radio Dystopia as well as The Defend Cleveland Show. He's also been in the record business selling music since he was teenager, most recently having curated all the new music at Loop in Tremont for over a decade, which was voted the best record store in the city by Scene Magazine multiple times. In addition to having been a musician in a number of bands in Cleveland over the years (blktyger, Fuzzhead, Seers, and Falling Rock), Michael is one of the co-founders and producers of the Cleveland Lottery League, which in 2028 will be celebrating its 20 years of bringing together musicians from all over the region to be randomly drafted together into all new bands

This event is free and open to the public.

“Drop the Needle,” a unique community listening experience that celebrates the art and history of vinyl records. Each session features a guest expert who delves into the story behind a chosen artist and their iconic album. The expert will guide us through the artist’s career, creative process, production techniques, and the cultural context surrounding the recording of the featured album. After the discussion, we “drop the needle” and listen together to Side A and Side B of the album in its entirety, savoring each track as it was meant to be heard. This shared listening session fosters a deeper appreciation of the music and invites participants to experience the album as a cohesive work of art. Following the listening session, we open the floor for a community discussion. Attendees are encouraged to share their reactions, insights, and questions, making this an interactive and enriching event for music lovers of all backgrounds. Whether you’re a long-time vinyl enthusiast or new to the format, “Drop the Needle” offers a welcoming space to explore, listen, and connect through the power of music.