Josh Klinghoffer - "Bob And The Monster original score" CD

Superb celebration of Bob Forrest's music

Released in conjunction with the superb and moving  documentary on Thelonious Monster front-man (and present-day drug counselor) Bob Forrest, this collection intersperses new Klinghoffer cuts with songs by solo Bob Forrest, Thelonious Monster, and Forrest and Klinghoffer's collaborative project, The Bicycle Thief.

Opening with the plaintive and minimal Klinghoffer guitar ode, "Phone Call", this fine album is a celebration of Forrest and his heartfelt, literate indie rock. Thelonious Monster's "Try" is wavering, poetic, and soulful 90s indie-style, while Forrest's solo classic "Sammy Hagar Weekend" is a tongue-in-cheek celebration of the hedonistic rock & roll lifestyle which Forrest himself once subscribed heavily to. 

Klinghoffer's cuts are predominantly minute-long guitar textures linking the more serious "songs" here, but the whole album is a rollicking good time. Forrest's songs are passionate and catchy indie rock of the first order, and close friend Klinghoffer (who is also currently guitarist for the Red Hot Chili Peppers) proves a perfect accompaniment for this showcase of Forrest's great music.

I dug this one all the way through.

Acetate Records

Josh Klinghoffer fan site

Bob Forrest Music

"Bob And The Monster" DVD (director: Keirda Bahruth)

Great look at rock redemption and the power of music

In the making for over 6 years, this stunning documentary focuses on Thelonious Monster founder Bob Forrest and his journey, from the untamed and beyond-control excesses of his rock wildman days to innovative rehab counselor. In-between, we are treated to numerous interviews with Bob's friends and musical collaborators (including Red Hot Chili Peppers, Fishbone, Guns 'N Roses, Jane's Addiction, and Hole members, among others). 

There's an extensive bio of Bob's journey from his happy childhood to his out-of-control addiction that nearly cost him his life. There's tons of rare footage of Bob's days fronting Thelonious Monster, onstage and off, along with candid interviews. If this were the heart of the movie, it would still be a top-shelf rock bio. But where many rock bios of this nature end tragically, "Bob And The Monster" is full of positive energy, redemption, and hope. 

Bob's current place in the world isn't taking rock to excessive highs (though he is a world-class songwriter still), but in assisting those in need. Indeed, Bob Forrest has been saving lives through his unconventional programs. His experience with addiction has made him a sympathetic and knowledgeable drug rehab counselor for those with little hope. His distrust and avoidance of pharmaceutical "cures" for chemical dependency is wise and prudent. "Bob And The Monster" is a superb film for anyone interested in the rise, fall, and rebirth of a gifted individual. In short, this is a beautiful film that I can highly recommend.

Shaker Films/MVD Visual

Bob And The Monster site

Bob Forrest Music