Moncton’s own rock pioneers, The Monoxides, are back on the airwaves with their upbeat new single, Radio Sunshine. Formed in 1988 by drummer Ken Kelley and vocalist/guitarist Steve Hickox, the band has been a cornerstone of New Brunswick’s vibrant music scene for over three decades. From their early days of cassette tapes and DIY concerts to sharing stages with legends like ZZ Top and Our Lady Peace, The Monoxides have carved out a legacy as champions of the East Coast rock revival.
The Monoxides Shine Again
The Spark That Ignited the Band
Like many great bands, The Monoxides’ story begins with shared passion. “We were each avid music fans and collectors before we started making music together,” says Kelley. “I think that’s what helped draw us to one another, finding people that were on the same wavelength.” That wavelength brought bassist PJ Dunphy into the fold in 1990 and lead guitarist Derek Robichaud a year later, solidifying the lineup that would define their sound.
Inspiration from a New Brunswick Scene
By 1991, The Monoxides were playing local shows and learning the ropes of independent music production from their friends in Eric’s Trip. “While they weren’t necessarily a direct musical influence on our work, their work ethic and guidance were invaluable to forging our own path,” Kelley explains. The Monoxides embraced the DIY ethos, producing artwork and releasing cassettes that became staples at shows and local record stores.
But the inspiration wasn’t just practical—it was cultural. “I think we’re just a small microcosm of the musical melting pot that has existed in New Brunswick long before us,” Kelley reflects. From punk and heavy metal to Francophone pop and folk, the province’s diverse music scene shaped the band’s approach.
Challenges Then and Now
The Monoxides’ rise coincided with a shift in the Canadian music industry. “Prior to 1990, you’d see many bands and artists leaving New Brunswick to relocate to larger cities like Montreal and Toronto because that was how you’d get in front of people in the music industry,” Kelley recalls. But as the '90s progressed, bands like Sloan and Eric’s Trip showed that geography was becoming less of a barrier. “It really all came down to the music, as it should have always been.”
While the industry’s challenges have evolved, Kelley’s advice for aspiring musicians remains timeless: “Get out and play live. Nothing will tighten a band up more than playing on stage, so do it as often as you can. Whether you’re playing in front of five people or 500 people, give the audience an unforgettable show with great songs, and word will spread.”
The Sunshine After the Storm
Radio Sunshine marks a new chapter for the Moncton band, who’ve spent recent years away from the heavy touring schedule of their earlier career. It’s a song that encapsulates their energy, optimism, and knack for crafting memorable hooks. The single follows their last full album, The Free Release of Energy (2000), and reminds listeners why the band has remained a beloved fixture of the East Coast music scene.
For Kelley, the secret to a great show—and perhaps a great band—lies in collaboration. “The best venues tend to be the ones that take a vested interest in ensuring your show does well—those are the ultimate win-win situations.”
A Lasting Legacy
From their DIY beginnings to their latest single, The Monoxides embody the resilience and creativity of New Brunswick’s music community. They’ve shown that talent and perseverance can turn a small-town band into a national treasure, inspiring a new generation of artists to follow their lead. As Radio Sunshine streams into the ears of fans old and new, one thing is clear: The Monoxides are still shining bright.
