Pink Monkey was born with a saxophone player trying to sing, a techno dj playing bass, and a drummer just looking to play. After a bit of refinement and a merging of musical ideas, the band has created a unique genre-crossing sound.

Their original compositions combine acid jazz and punk rock, and their song library covers everything from jazz standards and classic rock greats to modern pop songs. Pink Monkey’s versatile approach has allowed them to play in both the Chicago jazz and rock circuits- fitting into intimate lounge settings or wowing large crowds with high energy stage shows. The band has now become its own distinctive sounding jazz trio with limitless energy and acclaim from all musical circles.

Tim Koelling has been playing saxophone since the age of 11. Giving up on a promising future as a classical violinist early on, he chose the saxophone for love of the sound, later finding his true niche in improvisational music. Always looking for ways to expand his musical vocabulary he is constantly found experimenting with different instruments, electronic effects and occasionally singing a line or two.

Michael Koelling has made the seamless transition to becoming a bassist. Formerly DJ Asterix based out of St. Louis, he moved to Chicago for a change of scenery. After moving into "The Cave" he and Tim started collaborating with a singer searching for different creative outlets. So to fill out the bands sound he began playing bass to bring out his already honed skills in solid timing and stimulating grooves.

Nick Kokonas joined the band by answering an ill-advised classified ad. Upon learning the jazz background of the brothers he fell flawlessly into the rhythm section, forming the beginning of Pink Monkey. Originally playing a multitude of hand percussion prior to moving into the jazz genre, he brings a new approach to the sound, but is also known to leave the kit to reveal his talents in other areas of music.

10 Below.mp3
Stars in the Sky.mp3
Bittersweet Heart.mp3

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