“Opening the evening were relative newcomers, Desert Monkey. Despite their tender years, this is a band with huge potential fusing influences from the genres of funk, blues and rock to write great hooky songs and show off their superb musicianship.

Formed in 1999, the band have amassed a huge following most of whom appeared to be in attendance, and made their presence known as the youngsters started the evening in true style.

Definitely ones to watch.”
(Essex County Standard, January 31, 2003. by Nina Wright)

"Desert Monkey were next up and I must admit, I'd heard things but I'd never seen these guys play before, but I thought they were absolutely brilliant. They had a real Led Zeppelin feel to them, but at the same time quite a funky, groovy sensation going on as well."-(Essex band Re-Birth's review of gig at the Twist Friday 13th December 2002)

"First on tonight are hard-working heroes DESERT MONKEY. This is the third time I’ve seen them in as many months, and each time they have been progressively better. Strangely enough, they start tonight with their slower songs, whereas previously they’ve raced into a funky rock ‘n’ roll number which has the crowd dancing like Vietnam never happened. We have to wait fifteen minutes or so before our pre-Vietnam-style moves can be demonstrated, but once DM start up those funky basslines, one can’t help but gyrate. Some of the new tracks aired tonight lean more towards a Led Zeppelin style, as Jamie Harrison’s guitar breathes rock ‘n’ roll, coupling his solos with Sam Curtis’ complex bass perfectly. Believe me when I say these guys are gonna go far." -(www.the13th.com- webzine review-of gig at The Twist 24/1/03)