Hardcore band Monk brings us their new EP, Dark Side of the Mind, seven tracks equally influenced by classic hardcore bands and Buddhist spiritualists like Ram Dass and Thich Nhat Hanh. Monk’s songs melds hardcore with the principles of Zen Buddhism to create a unique approach to the genre. Opening track “Material World” assaults you with its quickness and power. It’s short and succinct and is a fantastic start to the album. The title track, “Dark Side of the Mind,” features Brendan Murphy of Counterparts and perfectly encapsulates the band, while “Ride the Wave” almost has a Pixies feel. “Chains” and “Your Rules” are classic hardcore songs done right. “Your Rules” and “Shadow Self” are great so...