Episode #32 - Zack Larkin and Aaron Platt (Sun Monkeys)

Jams for Man

Sun Monkeys played a blend of rock, go-go, jazz, hip-hop, and punk that was, "funkier than James Brown's socks." This group spawned out of a jam session by kids that went to both South Lakes and Osbourn Park High Schools in Northern Virginia, and the lineup that recorded their landmark album, Brotherhood, featured Zack Larkin on vocals, Aaron Platt on bass, Thomas Brady on guitar, and Pete Van Allen on drums. They went through many different lineups during their years booking every show they could get, from DC Space to Dharma Coffee House, but especially as the nominal house band at Bender's/The Cave in Manassass. Other members include: Ari Kirschenbaum, Tom Young, Matt Goodspeed, Lara Platt, Stevie Treichel, Josh Scalero, Rashaad Jones, Mike Margolis, and Crick. Their second album, Love American Style, expanded their sound, with keyboards, samples, and a more laid-back style. They were known for their sexually explicit lyrics and posters, original artwork designed by percussionist Kirschenbaum, and lengthy sets filled with exuberant, sweaty dancing. Sun Monkeys were contemporaries of and played shows with bands such as AVAIL, Mary Jane, Vehicle Birth, and Dismemberment Plan.