Album Review: Le Monstre Mash Le Thème Du Cimetière by Les Monstres
Released in 1965, Le Monstre Mash Le Thème Du Cimetière is a hidden gem from Canada’s garage rock scene. Brought to life by the band Les Monstres and released under the Blue Jean label, this album blends raw energy with a playful twist. It’s not your typical rock record—its mix of Garage Rock, Rock & Roll, and Novelty vibes makes it stand out like a misfit at a formal dinner. And honestly? That’s what makes it unforgettable.
The opening track, Le Thème Du Cimetière, grabs you right away. Imagine walking through a foggy graveyard while someone plays a slightly out-of-tune organ nearby. The guitar riffs are punchy but rough around the edges, giving off that DIY charm garage rock fans adore. There’s something oddly haunting yet fun about it—it’s like Halloween came early and decided to throw a house party. You can’t help but tap your foot even if the lyrics feel more kitschy than profound. This isn’t high art; it’s a vibe, and it works.
Then there’s Le Monstre Mash. If the first track sets the spooky mood, this one kicks things into full-on monster mash territory. Think wild drums, twangy guitars, and vocals dripping with campy enthusiasm. It’s chaotic, sure, but in the best way possible. What sticks with me most is how unapologetically weird it feels. It’s as if Les Monstres didn’t care about fitting into any box—they just wanted to have fun and make noise. And hey, who doesn’t love a good dose of musical chaos now and then?
One thing worth noting is how short these tracks are. They don’t overstay their welcome, which keeps the energy up throughout. At times, it almost feels like listening to a live jam session where everyone’s making it up as they go along. Imperfections shine through, but instead of detracting, they add character. This ain’t polished studio magic—it’s real, gritty, and alive.
Reflecting on this album, it’s hard not to smile. Sure, it might not change your life or redefine rock music, but it’s got heart. Listening to Le Monstre Mash Le Thème Du Cimetière feels like stepping back in time to an era when experimentation was king, and having fun mattered more than perfection. Plus, let’s be honest—how many albums give you both spookiness and silliness in equal measure? Not enough, that’s for sure.
Final thought? If you’re looking for something quirky to spice up your playlist, this one’s worth a spin. Just don’t expect anything too serious—you might end up laughing more than headbanging. And really, isn’t laughter the best kind of monster mash?
