2009 archive release. The Monks were five beat playing American GIs stationed in Germany who, after their discharge, decided to stay and continue their musical mission. Meeting up with a team of local managers, they transformed themselves and their sound into a holy racket like the world had never known. The Early Years 1964-1965 contains the primal sound of a band ready to both defend and destroy the preconceptions of what Rock music was (and is) all about. Bonus material dating back to pre-Monks Torquays and up to post Black Monk Time 45s are also included. Numerous period photographs (many unseen) and an extensive two-part essay by Canadian music journalist Kevin Howe's accompanies this release and tells The Monks story like it has never been told. Select CDs include limited edition Monks Trading Card (collect all nine cards!)