In 2002, the Monks were approached by percussion group ‘One Hand Clapping’ to create a collaborative piece reminiscent of their home country. The result could be described as both innovative and confrontational as they decided to forego conventional wisdom and recorded ‘The Sound of Silence’, a piece featuring no voices or instruments.

Unfortunately when it first appeared for sale on a World Music compilation cd [‘Various Vocals, Variously Vocal’, on Cavendish], it coincidentally clocked in at 4 minutes 33 seconds. The record company representing the estate of a particular minimalist musician accused the group of copying his legendary track and initiated legal proceedings. Cleverly, the Monks denied being party to the recording on the grounds that it was not possible to prove they had ever been present at the session and countersued for defamation of character.

At the trial, their cause was greatly helped by several famous World musicians who spoke on their behalf. It took the jury less than an hour to find in favour of the Monks, who were awarded sufficient damages (after costs) to fund the cost of a new set of microphone stands. In a state of great excitement, the Monks instantly decamped to their studio and recorded the taunting 'Music for Prepared Thumb Piano'.