In 2007, Monta broke into Columbus music circles with his guitar-harmonica fueled brand of aggressive blues-based folk rock. He earned attention from the Columbus community for his emotional, exciting performance as well as an ever-expanding catalog of original material that speaks a soul's every day language.

In late 2008, Monta was joined by Andy and Chris Shaw, Bree Frick, and Pete Vogel to form the Hot Coal Band. The Hot Coal Band blended elements of folk, country, jazz, and blues with some live arrangements including four-part vocal harmonies, violin, trumpet, and cello in addition to guitar and harmonic. In addition to the originals, the Hot Coal Band often played songs such as "Five Years" by David Bowie, "Going out West" by Tom Waits, and "Sixteen Tons" by Merle Travis. Their ability to defy genre garnered much attention and press in the Columbus community.

In 2011, Monta formed The Smoking Guns, a hard-hitting rockabilly and rock-and-roll band that has been described as "Sun Records with a punk edge." In the Smoking Guns, he shares the stage with Billy Cory on bass (Sean Carney, Teeny Tucker), Brady Oxender on drums (Slim White & the Averys), and Robert Thomas on lead guitar (Slick Andrews; The Odd Job Millionaires).

Monta also plays rhythm guitar and provides accompanying vocals in the swampy blues band RIghteous Buck & the Skull Scorchers. http://www.reverbnation.com/righteousbuckandtheskullscorchers

Over his musical career, Monta has shared the stage with acts such as "Long Tall" Deb Landolt; the Andy Shaw Band; the Josh Krajcik Band; the Wet Darlings; the Woosley Band; Unit-1; Woody PInes & the Lonesome Two, Slim White & the Averys, Micah Schnabel of Two Cow Garage; Ghost Shirt; The Spruce Campbells; The Boondogglers; Gipson & Fitz; and many more.

Monta is also active in the Columbus arts community. He hosts a bi-weekly country and Americana showcase called The Honky Tonk Happy Hour at the Shrunken Head. He performs, emcees, and holds a free raffle for a homemade pie.