Capitola Twilight Concert Preview: Meet the Cocktail Monkeys

Capitola's summer , every Wednesday from 6 to 8 p.m. in Esplanade Park, and this week's free performance is by The Cocktail Monkeys. The group performs cover songs across many genres and is making a name for itself throughout California.

The Band
The Cocktail Monkeys are comprised of four members: Renee (lead vocals, harmonica, percussion, keyboards), Mark St. John (guitar, vocals), Bobby A.C. (bass, vocals) and Will Diamond (drums, vocals).

According to their website, they "bring you more than exciting music and perfect vocal harmony; they bring fun, camaraderie and professionalism to each show." 

The Sound
The Cocktail Monkeys span plenty of musical styles including classic rock, R&B, funk, punk, 80s, disco, modern and oldies.

The Songs
A sample of the songs they play include the following:
Start Me Up, Rolling Stones
Midnight House, Wilson Pickett
Chain of Fools, Aretha Franklin
Call Me, Blondie
Last Dance, Donna Summer
Bad Romance, Lady Gaga
Stand By Me, Ben E. King
These Boots are Made for Walkin', Nancy Sinatra
Rebel Rebel, David Bowie 

The Response
Per the group's website, public opinion on The Cocktail Monkeys is overwhelmingly positive. See all the reviews here, including these two from locals:

Just saw your show at the Santa Cruz Boardwalk this afternoon. Enjoyed it very much! Bought 2 t-shirts for my son and I. Good show, nice energy! Keep rockin'!
Phil, Santa Cruz

Your wedding was absolutely beautiful!! I heard that your band was the BEST band our staff has ever seen at a wedding!! The Banquet Manager told me they were awesome & brought the house down!! It sounds like a good time was had by all!
Wedding Coordinator
Chaminade Hotel, Soquel, CA

There are plenty of videos on Youtube of the group. See the upper right of this page for a few examples.