For my first album review here on Accidental Sexiness, there were tons of options. My tastes are pretty eclectic; you’ll find my Zune packed with artists from Frank Sinatra and O.D.B. to N*SYNC and Bach. Luckily, a friend suggested I try something totally new to me, and check out the band 100 Monkeys.

Who are these monkeys, you ask?
The Los Angeles based group is composed of members Ben Graupner, Ben Johnson, Jackson Rathbone (yes ladies, Twilight’s Jasper Cullen), Jerad Anderson, and Uncle Larry. Each member plays multiple instruments and they often switch up for different songs. These talented guys clearly know their music inside & out.

What you should be listening to:
Earlier this year, they released Monster De Lux, 10 tracks of pure bluesy/funky/rock eargasmic fun that leave you wanting more. And more, they say, will come. According to their website, they’ll be releasing a full album in early December. But lets not get ahead of ourselves!

The entire album is completely listenable, not one of those you find yourself skipping around, looking for the songs you like. There is something just simply fun about their vocal styles and quirky lyrics.

These monkeys will get you right from the start with the funky, slightly paranoid, Robot Timberwolves. They then jump to a different feel completely with Small Lean, a short but cute bit about, oddly enough, Jesse Camp. (And, having met him, I can agree, he really is a nice guy.) The album continues on this way, not letting you get bored by one sound. From instrumentals to synthesized vocals, there is something different to hear with each change of track.

My favorite tracks? Robot Timberwolves, Druken Waltz, and Electric Life. Check them out!

Come on, wrap it up…
Ok, ok. Their music may not be for everyone. It’s not mainstream pop type stuff, not even in the Kings of Leon sense. But for those who can appreciate something different, 100 Monkeys offers a sound that is both mellow and innovative. My only wish for this album? I wish they’d included a few other songs, like Orson Brawl. A quick trip to YouTube and you can find dozens of awesome 100 Monkeys performances.

Tip: Be sure to listen to the final track, Spaceship, in it’s entirety.