Soul Monsters

The Soul Monsters bring to their native Columbus an eclectic mix of indie, alternative and post rock. They formed on the basis that music should not only be played, but felt. Formed in 2011, Hiro Passalacqua (Rhythm Guitar), Chris Culbertson ( Lead Vocals), Tatsumi Suenaga ( Lead Guitar), Joe Yamakawa ( Bass/ Back-up Vocals) , and Max Heuft (Drums) set out to create something dynamic. Meaningful lyrics, powerful melodies, and impassioned guitar solos shape the band's sound. 

Band members Hiro Passalacqua and Chris Culbertson started playing music together one fateful afternoon during a blizzard. What resulted was an album recorded with an mp3 player called Covers on a Snow Covered Day. They called themselves the Trimonsters and began writing their own music. Although their songwriting developed, Hiro and Chris wanted to expand their sound. Fortunately, Tatsumi, Ethan, and Joe, who were at the time in a band called the Soul Fighters, joined them. Ethan Young has since departed. Max Heuft became the official drummer in 2013. The name the Soul Monsters pays tribute to these humble beginnings and to the possibilities ahead of them. 

Since their inception, the Soul Monsters have played an active role in the Columbus music scene. They represented Ohio as finalists in the 2013 Folgers Jingle Contest and have played everywhere from bars to ballrooms. Fueled by passion and taco bell, the band's diverse sound encompasses western and eastern influences. High energy vocals, engaging melodies, and Japanese-rock influenced riffs, create an infectious upbeat performance.