Monica and the Explosion

Monica and the Explosion

Monica and the Explosion is a Swedish punk rock group based in Tunbridge Wells. The core line-up is Monica Welander, a Swedish punk rock singer-songwriter and bassist Paul Slack, who is an original member of the UK Subs and the Flying Padovanis. The group also includes drummer Rob Baylis, known for work with Dun 2 Def and the Destructors, and sometimes performs with drummer JP Morer.

The band releases music on the Hands Up Music label. In July 2010, with Rob Baylis on drums, they release the album Shut Up!, which is described as Welander’s second album. Their sound is described as “jukebox punk”, a mix that keeps the original shape of the songs while adding a more complex overall sound.

Welander tours as a solo artist for a couple of years before the two-piece version takes shape. The band tours Ireland, Sweden and Australia, and also performs extensively around the UK. Their songs are delivered with a strong, direct style that helps build a following at live shows.