Monaco

Monaco was a British rock band formed in 1995 by New Order bassist Peter Hook. Here are some facts about the band:

1. Formation and Lineup: Monaco was formed by Peter Hook after the dissolution of his previous band, Revenge. Hook teamed up with guitarist David Potts, keyboardist Richard Vernon, and drummer Paul Kehoe to form Monaco. The band's lineup underwent some changes over the years, with Hook and Potts being the constant members throughout their existence.

2. Musical Style and Influences: Monaco's music was heavily influenced by the alternative rock and electronic dance music of the 1990s. Their sound was characterized by catchy guitar riffs, pulsating rhythms, and melodic hooks. Drawing inspiration from bands like New Order, The Smiths, and Electronic, Monaco created a sound that blended elements of rock, dance, and synth-pop, appealing to fans of both genres.

3. Commercial Success and Hit Single: Monaco achieved commercial success with their debut single, "What Do You Want From Me?" The song, released in 1997, became a hit in the UK, reaching the top 20 on the UK Singles Chart. "What Do You Want From Me?" featured infectious guitar hooks, driving beats, and Hook's distinctive basslines, garnering praise from critics and earning Monaco widespread recognition.

4. Album Releases: Monaco released their debut album, "Music for Pleasure", in 1997. The album showcased the band's eclectic mix of rock and dance influences, featuring tracks like "What Do You Want From Me?" and "Sweet Lips". Despite receiving positive reviews from music critics, "Music for Pleasure" did not achieve the same level of commercial success as its lead single. Monaco released a few more singles and EPs over the years, but they never managed to replicate the success of their debut.

5. Disbandment and Legacy: Monaco disbanded in the early 2000s after struggling to achieve sustained success and facing internal conflicts. Despite their relatively short-lived career, Monaco left a lasting legacy on the alternative rock and electronic music scenes of the 1990s. Their debut single, "What Do You Want From Me?" remains a staple of 1990s alternative playlists and continues to be remembered fondly by fans of the era. Additionally, Peter Hook's involvement in Monaco served as a continuation of his influential work with bands like New Order and Joy Division, further solidifying his status as a pioneering figure in alternative music.