Description
Song Samples
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About the Album
This is the MonaLisa Twins’ long awaited 3rd original album. Having been penned during one of the perhaps strangest periods in recent human history, many of the songs explore various aspects of the current times and can be summed up in a rather simple question … WHY?
As always you will be able to find lots of tongue-in-cheek moments as well as some sincere ponderings and reflections on life.
Album Name: WHY?
Album Download: WHY? – 12 Tracks
Download Format: zip file with MP3 files + Extras
sheldon soman (verified owner) –
Great Album. The album includes original pieces. My favorite is “I bought myself a Politician”, Truer words were never spoken. Along with the video it’s quite funny. “Any other day” is a beautiful ballad. Love this album
Candice (verified owner) –
I love everything you do. I particularly appreciate good lyrics that actually SAY something. Yours are so intelligent, clever and entertaining. You are BRILLIANT! My favorite (I’ve listened to it a gazillion times and never get tired of it) is “I bought myself a politician.”
Domenic Valentine –
Hello Ladies… I ran across you for the first time while looking at Beatles Youtube videos. Watched Hey Bulldog from the Cavern and was amazed !!! Obviously I am a huge Beatle fan – like a billion other people 🙂 I live in Florida and would like to know if you have any tour plans which might land you in the USA? Keep up the great work !!
Jerry (verified owner) –
Amazing! Girls, you have created so charming album with diverse songs. I feel Beatles/Pink floyd influence here. But this album is mainly original masterpiece by MonaLisa twins. I have to listen whole album again and again. Songs of the album are in general more complicated than the previous ones…Janitor Joe, Jump ship. Songs like Any other day, Songbird are pure caress to the soul. Thank you so much for this album, your music has got some special magic and spirit. Keep being fine!
Btw. Lisa, great talk box job.
Chris Meeson –
I absolutely love Janitor Joe…….. girls, you are a breath of fresh air….. That was a timeless composition of the highest quality. In fact, ever since I discovered you, I’ve just listened with joy, and thank you to my favourite group, The Beatles, who are clearly your inspiration
Just one last thought……..when are you coming over to see me in Brisbane, Australia
Heaps of love to you both
Chris
Debra Wismer –
Love you voices and music
Brian K. (verified owner) –
Just love this record the Twins are the best and one of the few bands i am interested in since i am an old fuck at 60 love the Rick sound Rock On Lsdies.Smart and intelligent Music thank you.
Jean Santirosi (verified owner) –
Hi to both of you,
I am french speaking so excuse my English. I really like your album `Why. It is the 4th album I purchased from your site. I discovered you on one of your tubes on You Tube some years ago. In fact just before the pandemic. While looking for Beatles song.
I find that you are both so talented. I find that with time your art has improved greatly because you write your own songs. I enjoy your videos, This is one of the a rare album ( The others are mostly Jazz) I have where I like all the songs, the lyrics are intelligent and the melody are superb.
In fact I decided to learn to play guitar because of you. You gave me the taste for it. I consider myself still a beginner even if I practice every day, I know that I will never be as good as you are. I had to stop for one year because of sickness, and restarted a few months ago.
I hope that one day you will perform in Montreal so I could go and see you live.
Keep going I love what you do.
Frankenberry (verified owner) –
Came across you all by chance in my FB feed, and your “politician” tune. Apparently your marketing works. Witty and smart, fun and snarky, heartfelt and wistful all of it. After immediately buying the new one that came with the older one and then burning it to disc (yes, my old boy still has a CD player) I have had a welcome car companion for the last month or two, even singin’ out loud with open windows to “Any Other Day” or “Jump Ship”. I rarely do “new things” but you two are an exception. Way cool. Cheers.
Heinrich Dixon (verified owner) –
“I Bought Myself A Politician” popped up in my Farcebook feed and I hurried here to buy the album.
🍌🙂
Diane Kraft (verified owner) –
Your sound is new and old at the same time. The music , lyrics, and harmonies are fantastic. The videos are great. My favorite is “I Bought Myself A Politician”. It’s the first of your that I heard. I just assumed you were from the USA given the lyrics. I guess politicians suck worldwide.
Best of luck for your continued success ladies!
Joe –
unbelievable your beauty and talent,continued suscess.God bless
Eileen (verified owner) –
I was first attracted to ‘I Bought Myself A Politician’, so fitting in these times! Many of the songs take me back in time and I enjoy your renditions!
Jan (verified owner) –
Love it! This is my third album purchase of yours … so I guess you could call me a fan! The track I specially love on this new album is ANY OTHER DAY … in fact I loved it so much I choreographed a dance to it! (It’s what I do : I’m a line dance instructor / choreographer, specialising in gentle dances for beginners and seniors) It seems to be going down well so far in the line dance world, so whether you like line dancing or not, it is still a great way of getting your music out there and spreading the Mona Lisa Twins message!
You can see the dance stepsheet and demos on : https://www.copperknob.co.uk/stepsheets/169345/any-other-day
Thanks for a lovely song … the video is brilliant too!
Donald (verified owner) –
The song that lured me in was I bought myself a politician then I figured I’m ordering the one why not get 2 albums at same time I am thoroughly impressed. the songs I loved also include my favorite Janitor Joe and the songs Questionable and If you raise your head.
Sally Allan –
Finding you was such a lovely discovery…
William Schuyler (verified owner) –
This is a great album. I understand that this album is only music you wrote, as a team.
I must complement you all on your song writing skill.
There are a lot of songs on this album that I like, but I will only list three favorites:
Janitor Joe, Any Other Day, and Pretty Little Thing (which I think is about your duckling, who sings at the end of the song).
This is your best album, so far.
I am waiting for your next one.
Steve Henson –
– ALBUM REVIEW –
Greetings from Australia! This latest album WHY? is a masterpiece of songwriting and musicianship! As we all know, the harmonies are always impeccable and blend as one! Mona and Lisa are very talented musicians and performers.
As an experienced Songwriter and qualified sound engineer, I’d like to write an in-depth review of several featured tracks. Some are simple and euphonious; whilst others you’ll be blown away with, by the complexities, creativity and arrangements!
Make Show –
This is a great opening track on the album. It’s distinctive vocal style and exceptional bass track which grooves the song along; makes this a solid number! The “Make Show” lyrics (from my interpretation), tend to indicate how the likes of production companies, will promote and exploit their artists. The song is clever and very well arranged!
When the chorus arrives at 0:44 with; “You gotta make show”; there’s a wonderful and effective background ambience, that creates the atmospheric mood of the song. Plus the signature guitar riff by Lisa in the choruses is superb! There is no guitar solo in this song, as it is stacked with lyrics in the arrangement. From 2:55 with; “We just need your pretty face”; is over thirty seconds of non-stop continuous vocals without a pause! It catches you out on the first listen, as it it is totally unexpected and very innovative and creative. It works a charm and you’ll have a tough time keeping up with the girls trying to sing along!
Mona and Lisa would have had fun with the overdubs in the studio, working on this track. It would be a challenge performed ‘live’ singing the latter of the song; but after all, in the end; “You gotta make show!”. So who better than up for the task than this? Mona and Lisa of course!
I Bought Myself a Politician –
This is probably the most popular song choice for a ‘Single’ off the album; due to it’s catchy melodic structure which has an instant appeal. It runs for just under 3 minutes, so is ideal for radio stations. It has a nice flowing rhythm beat; plus it has cleverly written cheeky lyrics about politics! (which we can all relate to). The lines are very smartly written like: “As universal scientist and generous philanthropist, my shopping list confirms my expertise”.
There’s also a nifty guitar solo which stems around the main theme. The sound is clean and superbly mixed. It’s a great song, which would be quite effective and enjoyable played live with a band. (The video for this track deserves an award, as it’s spectacularly done and most creative! – A must see!!)
Janitor Joe –
There’s certainly creative lyrics and an imagination, to come up with an original story about the mysterious Janitor Joe! (Yes where did he go?) Musically; the song has a distinct rhythmic feel with the syncopated snare drum. This is another song which would go well played live. (even could be aptly played with a straight beat for dance!).
The song is much more appreciated if you absorb the lyrics, as it takes you on a magically entrancing journey! Plus there’s some splendid background vocals cleverly arranged through-out the song.
I think it’s Mona who takes the lead vocal in this composition and she also plays some nicely featured flute, giving the song a distinct sound and theme. At 0:38 begins the chorus, with the lyrics soon stating; “He dreams of leaving Mother Earth”. Then at 1:47 is the clever idea of including a NASA style countdown!!
The song moves along as the story about Janitor Joe progresses; and it’s not until finally it reaches it’s climax at 2:43, when he blasts off!! Now with Joe flying through the universe, the song takes on a musical twist. The catchy sing-along chorus with the distant vocals; “Janitor Joe where did you go”; has you also singing along! It’s the highlight of the track and would be interesting hearing it earlier at 1:55 with Joe’s first venture. However since the song follows the story line; it makes perfect sense being featured at the end! It’s such an irresistible chorus which you will instantly love! “Janitor, Janitor Joe”. If this song was played live, it may probably be played longer as the crowd would be all elated singing along! “Janitor Joe where did you go”
Questionable –
What an exquisitely witty song!! After a short intro by Rudi, is an interesting chord sequence with some outstanding vocals by Lisa. (fabulous singing and vocal control). Then at 0:40 the harmonies come in with; “You want my love you want romance”. It’s a terrific Chorus with thoughtfully written lyrics! They are quite cheeky, humorous and clever! Even at the start the questions fly; then suddenly at 0:28 is an unexpected; “And do you care about the roundabout they’re building over there”. Then later is; “The frequency with which you change your underwear?”. (Now that’s cheeky!!).
The questions roll on all through the song, as the lyrics in the chorus sum up what the song is all about; “My heart is one big questionnaire, So let me see if we could make a questionable pair”.
Then at 1:58 is the bridge which adds tension and is smartly written. The vocals of course are stellar through-out and there’s even a little break at 2:55, with just the drums and vocals, which is a refreshing clever touch. The song is very well arranged and is quite an exceptional solid track! When watching the YouTube video, due to it being so entertaining; some may tend to be distracted and not notice how terrific this song actually is in it’s own right!
Summer Rain –
This euphonious relaxing song is brilliant! It’s very calming and the delightful vocals seem to caress the lyrics. There’s some splendid Bass playing and arranging by Rudi.
At 1:12 is a beautiful guitar solo. It’s superb an impeccably played! The idea of a rimshot for drums works a treat and the improvised bass is sublime. The vocals resume at 1:39 with; “And when you make us feel alive again”; with the harmonies sounding a real treat.
This is such a feel-good song. The clarity and purity in the recording is simply beautiful.
Songbird –
What a gorgeous song! The lyrics convey about hope; dreams and determination! Writing the story and structuring the track about a “Songbird” is skillful songwriting! Especially when you add the wonderfully addictive singing and music; which makes it a stand-out gem! The style of the song reminds me of the twins first album.
Due to the song being so well interwoven and flowing; it may be unnoticed the exceptional drumming by Mona. The clever fills; rimshot; snare and cymbals are smartly delivered and arranged. At around 1:49 there’s an interesting featured solo. It’s a unique clean sound; described like a blend of a harpsichord and bellish chime sound. It’s elegantly played and works splendidly in the song.
Lisa takes the lead in this track, with perfect harmonies by Mona. At 2:21 is a stellar introduction of some “Ooh’s” with; “Oooooh spread your wings rise into the air”. The length of the song goes for 3:18; but feels like only a couple of minutes, due to the captivating serenity of the soundtrack.
Jump Ship –
This incredible composition is masterly written! The lyrics have a deep overtone which are applied to your own interpretation. Musically; it’s quite complex in the song’s structure; yet it’s “easy listening” of the; “Ahh’s”; at the start have you captivated in a dream-like state. Lisa’s beautiful yet haunting vocals are stellar and have you transfixed; whilst Mona’s effective drums keep the groove. The creative drumming is outstanding and exceptionally played! (The prominent snare drum sounds superb!)
The song tends to send you drifting away, along with the evocative lyrics; until suddenly at 1:35; “I better jump ship”. The change of mood is dramatic and it’s an awesome chorus! It has you hooked on the first listen. There is a zany-epigrammatic style of vocals (which needs to be heard); applied to the singing! It has a ‘David Bowie’ sound to it and the chorus is actually melodically quite powerful. The harmonies are sublime; whilst Mona’s drumming is cleverly arranged, driving the song along.
The music gets quite eerie at 3:34, as each line of the lyrics seems to climb up a semi-tone. It’s a fantastic effect and reflects the talent of creativity in songwriting. It really adds an atmosphere of tension; until Mona finally screams out at 3:45; “But staying here won’t save your neck!”. — This is a sensational album track!
Why? –
This indeed is a musical experience going for five minutes; with intense political and provocative lyrics. It has incredible fat layered harmonies, superbly sung; with the hint of Queen-like vocals. With the break at 3:12; there’s some exceptional drums by Mona. This section has a bit of Pink Floyd sound to it and subjectively it would be interesting to hear just the music a bit longer, before the vocals resume to give it even more space. There’s a superb cutting cello sound which drives the song along.
The song is a big statement in “why?” in many aspects of the world’s situation. The lyrics do not hold back and they are very cleverly written. It makes you think and it’s an epic sensational track!! An immense amount of outstanding vocal work has gone into this masterpiece! Big commendations go to Mona and Lisa for their sensational mammoth vocal work!
This album “WHY?” is a definite must have!! It’s incredible talent blended along with stunning vocals and music, making it a treasured collection! The originality of the songs is invigorating and the studio mixing is exceptional.
Lindsay (verified owner) –
Every few years I come across an album that just blows me away. WHY is that that album.
It’s addictive, I can’t stop playing it!
Della Reynolds –
Great to hear an independent band. The lyrics are spot on and as independents they have musical freedom. Go girls. All power to you.
Jeff (verified owner) –
I have been purchasing all that Mona and Lisa have put out including WHY? ORANGE, and earlier ones! They delight me! They have fresh new takes on wonderful early compositions in addition to their own compositions. What ia joy it is to have a seat and listen to their harmonies and see their happy faces! Thanks!
Mark! (verified owner) –
Great stuff all around! My life is better having discovered them. And I got a pick to beat my ukulele with! Yay! Maybe I will learn to use a pick after all…
Thank you, your family, and your bandmates for the hours of pleasure.
Geologist King –
The songs and harmonies are wonderful. Since I have outdoor speakers by the pool I am sure my neighbors are loving it as well.
Guenther (verified owner) –
A great Album, I like your Voices and your Music
Enrique –
Delighted with your quality, your way of playing and singing, and your charisma, I buy your new album with my eyes closed, confident that it is excellent material that I will enjoy a lot. God bless you 2!
Rick A Voeltner (verified owner) –
Simply the Best
GARY M Gaither –
I just ordered it and can’t wait!! You two are such a grand couple of Musical Hearts…..
Jung Roe –
The album “Why?” has been in essence many years in the making, and Mona and Lisa have poured their heart and soul into it! What we have is one remarkable inspired album that that for me is like an emotional adventure from beginning to end, in the realm of a Beethoven symphony, with 12 amazing movements that leave you breathless, and coming back for more.
The music is innovative, refreshing, unique, and a style all their own. Mona and Lisa took their love and passion for the 60s music, their amazing harmonies and vocal prowess and musicianship to create songs of immense beauty, complex and breathtaking instrumentation, and mesmerizing melodies and musical effects. There is so much diversity in the album from song to song, from a deep mesmerizing “Why” to a heartwarming “Pretty Little Thing”. There is an element of a brooding dark reality to bright joyful love, and everything in between that the human experience encompasses. The music touches me deep inside and evokes so much feeling endlessly, it makes me feel ALIVE! It fills me with emotions of wonder and awe, beauty and joy! It makes you feel the passion of true love, the longing, triumph, and letting go. Each song has so much substance and meaning, expressing truths and what we all feel and want, but in the most musically eloquent and powerful way. The album really makes me passionately feel the WHY?, like moments in my own life when something unfair or senseless happens and I cry WHY????? I love what Mona and Lisa stand for, and they fight our fight through their music to make the world a better place. They are my heroes.
The album “Why” is nothing short of a work of art masterpiece that you never tire of listening to, with absolute beauty, awe, and joy throughout that keeps drawing you back. You get something new out of it every time, an inspiration, a feeling, insight.
John Gratton (verified owner) –
Okay. Summer Rain and Songbird are stunning in their beauty and simplicity, and Any Other Day could be a one-song playlist to listen to all the time. Make Show is clever, fun, and wildly accurate satire. Pretty Little Thing just rocks, and probably will be the song I listen to most. Overall, Why? is a richly rewarding experience, enjoyable from start to finish. The lyrics are engaging throughout, well beyond typical boy meets girl adventures, intellectually pleasing. Their voices continue to mature, and those uplifting harmonies border on the sublime. The Twins just get better in every aspect of their music, especially the ever-increasing quality of the musicianship. Those girls can PLAY. Now I’m going back for a second listen….