Makin Waves 30th Anniversary Party (March 31, 2018)

PRESS RELEASE

DEAL CASINO, LEEDS & ALL-STAR UPSTAGE JAM ADDED
TO MAKIN WAVES 30TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION

March 31 event at Asbury’s Wonder Bar features three generations of talent on one stage,
plus a salute to Asbury Park’s boardwalk with a free Wheel of Chance for sponsor prizes

ASBURY PARK – Announced earlier this year, the Makin Waves 30th Anniversary Party has added three more special components to the all-day festival on March 31 at the Wonder Bar, 1213 Ocean Ave.

To close the 2 p.m. to 2 a.m. event celebrating the award-winning music column, Upstage legend Paul Whistler will lead an all-star jam with a variety of invited musicians who frequented the fabled coffeehouse where so many Asbury Park musicians cut their teeth. Confirmed to perform are original E Street Band drummer Vini Lopez, singer-songwriter-guitarist Joe Petillo, guitarist Billy Ryan, keyboardist John Mulrenan and more to be announced soon. The previous Upstage Jam at the 2017 Asbury Park Music in Film Festival was a star-studded event, remembers Whistler, who rose to local fame with the Wheels throughout the 1970s.

“I always look forward to an opportunity to get together with all the guys,” Whistler said. “So many wonderful musicians celebrating and sharing friendships, roots, history, tradition, the music and the Mojo that is the true heart of Asbury Park. Most of all, I am looking forward to the fun that will be had! And no better party to do it at!”

Asbury faves Deal Casino and the up-and-coming act LEEDS will join the Jersey Shore’s first-ever country duo Williams Honor, popular hard rockers Colossal Street Jam, well-rooted punk band The Vansaders, buzzing twin duo Nalani & Sarina, singer-songwriter Karen Mansfield and more.

“We are excited to perform for Bob Makin who’s given so much to the NJ music community over the years,” Deal Casino said.

Deal Casino

Williams Honor

Produced by Makin, the Makin Waves music column has covered the New Jersey music scene like a blanket since its formation in East Coast Rocker in 1988. Now published in New Jersey Stage, NJArts.net and back in The Aquarian Weekly for the first time since 1995, Makin Waves has featured all of the anniversary party’s participating artists. They also include Sutton Thomas, Well of Souls great Tom Kanach’s new band The WaterMakers, Mike Brody vs. the People, and Mike Daly & the Planets. The party will be emceed and feature classic Asbury and Jersey tunes spun by “Radio Jersey” Founder DJ Lee Mrowicki, who helped give Makin his start covering the historic Stone Pony in the early ’80s and now presents his weekly “Makin Waves Report” on “Radio Jersey” at event co-sponsor AsburyMusic.com.

With the new additions, the show now represents a healthy history not only of Makin Waves, but the Asbury Park music scene, Makin said.

“I’m very excited to present three generations of Asbury and Jersey talent on one stage,” Makin said. “Baby Boomers, Generation X and Millennials all will come together for a great time that also will salute the history of the beloved Asbury Park boardwalk with a free Wheel of Chance for absolutely awesome sponsor prizes.”

These prizes include gorgeous canvas-framed covers of The Aquarian and East Coast Rocker featuring Jersey greats Brue Springsteen, Bon Jovi, The Misfits and more; Bruce Springsteen’s new Capitol Theatre CD and a framed poster from that historic 1978 run from Makin Waves and Asbury Park Music Foundation; more framed posters of historic early Springsteen Asbury shows from the Foundation; a signed book and T-shirt from famed photographer Danny Clinch and his Transparent Gallery; a signed book and a print Debra L. Rothenberg Photography; gifts from the Wonder Bar, Stone Pony, Brew TEA Spot, and WRAT 95.9 the Rat; , and gift certificates from Fat Rat Press, Silverball Museum Arcade, Bubbakoo’s Burritos, and Cookman Creamery.

Event highlights also will include drink specials, a free commemorative sheet cake created by event co-sponsor Confections of a Rock$tar and a free commemorative sticker from Fat Rat Press. The event’s first 100 patrons also will receive a free commemorative T-shirt also from Fat Rat.

Tickets to the Makin Waves anniversary party are $15 in advance at the Stone Pony box office and via Ticketmaster (plus tax and surcharge) at https://goo.gl/hzsoaS, and $20 at the door. From each paid admission, $2 each will go to Asbury Park Music Foundation and Boys & Girls Club of Monmouth County, both of which provide local at-risk youth with music mentorship.

The anniversary party continues a tradition of fundraising for Makin Waves, which has helped raise $132,000 for charity throughout its 30 years, including Light of Day Foundation, United Way, Coalition for the Homeless, Elijah’s Promise, Embrace Kids Foundation and more.

“Makin Waves has been such a great resource to identify and promote up-and-coming musicians,” said James Lenskold, chairman of the Asbury Park Music Foundation. “We are thrilled that funds raised for this 30th anniversary party will benefit the Asbury Park Music Foundation’s youth music education programs, helping to support the next generation of musicians with a life-changing experience.”

In addition to Makin Waves’ outlets – The Aquarian Weekly, New Jersey Stage, NJArts.net, and AsburyMusic.com – media sponsors include 95.9 the Rat and its “Jersey Rock” show dedicated to local talent; their Beasley Broadcast Group sister station 1450 WCTC AM; radio and web talk-show host Danny Coleman; Carousel Arts, producers of the “OneMore with Brian Erickson” web show, and Jersey Indie, a website supportive to the local music scene.

In addition to DJ Lee, event emcees will include Bert Baron, WCTC’s program director and host of its popular “Jersey Central” program, and Tom Hanley, host of 95.9 the Rat’s “Jersey Rock.”

Baron said, “I’ve been an avid Makin Waves reader for decades, and I can’t wait to celebrate 30 years of Bob’s outstanding work, covering the Jersey music scene!”

The party concludes an anniversary concert series and is part of the 2018 Makin Waves Concert Series, which launched on Feb. 3 with the sold-out Blood & Roses: The Court Tavern Memorial Tribute to Pat DiNizio and will continue with Hub City Music Festival throughout April in New Brunswick, the Second Annual Makin Waves Jam N Groove Fest on May 12 at Roxy & Dukes, the Makin Waves Summer Concert Series at Asbury Park Brewery on June 30, July 14, July 28, and Aug. 11, ROCK New Brunswick on Sept. 8 in Boyd Park and more to be announced.

For more information about Makin Waves, visit www.facebook.com/makinwavescolumn. For more about the anniversary party, visit www.facebook.com/events/148518945869492/ and www.WonderBarAsburyPark.com.

CONTACT:

Contact: Bob Makin
732-998-9339
makinwaves64@yahoo.com

Interview with Billy Walton

By Sonia Schnee | Posted Friday, February 23, 2018

On January 12th, the Billy Walton Band -- Jersey shore powerhouse rock 'n' soul-ers led by former Southside Johnny & the Asbury Jukes lead guitarist Billy Walton -- released their latest LP entitled Soul of a Man (iTunes | Amazon | Spotify).  Read about lead guitarist/vocalist Billy Walton's musical influences, his personal journey, and words of advice for up-and-comers, below. 

What's your name, where are you from, where are you based now?

BILLY WALTON:  My name is Billy Walton, and I'm from a little town in New Jersey called Tuckerton.  I now live in Egg Harbor Township.  I lived up and down the coast of Jersey my whole life.  The rest of the boys in the band are from all over New Jersey.

How would you describe your sound?  Where do you record?  Who are your influences, musically?

I consider my music rock and soul, but it has all the elements of blues, rock, and soul.  We recorded the Wish for What You Want (2015) album in Long Branch, New Jersey and the latest record, Soul of a Man (2018), we recorded most of the tracks in Maui and a few in Philadelphia.

There are so many influences that shine throughout our records and live performances, and of course, the Jersey greats come through in the energy and showmanship of the band (Like Southside Johnny and the Asbury Jukes and Bruce Springsteen), but that is just in our blood and where I grew up.  The soul influences come from Stax records!  As far as guitar influences -- and there are so many to mention I hate to leave any out, but I'll try -- Chuck Berry, Johnny Winter, Lowell George, Jimi Hendrix and many, many, many, many more!

How did you get started with music?  What's been your personal journey?  Are there any artists, bands, or producers who you'd love to collaborate with one day?

Well, I got started sneaking into a little club that was in the middle of my town.  I would sit in with older blues cats that turned me onto cool blues like Freddie King or Johnny Winter.  They would kick my ass every week, but at some point, the tables turned.  I would spend hours in my room jamming along to Chuck Berry records, Skynyrd records, and anything I could get my hands on.

My personal music journey has been a great one -- I’ve been able to play my guitar all over the world; I’ve met a lot of my heroes.  One of whom I have played with in his band for six years as a member of the Jukes.  That is Southside Johnny and the Asbury Jukes.  We recorded a live record featuring Steven Van Zandt from the E Street Band.  I've gotten to jam with Double Trouble.  I've had a Grammy award-winning producer, Tony Braunagel, produce one of my records, and I’ve become good friends with Roger Mayer, the inventor of the Octavia that he made for Jimi Hendrix. 

As far as collaborating with other artists, I would love to record with anyone that can bring something to the party! 

What words of advice or encouragement would you give to someone who wants to follow a similar passion?

My advice to any new artist that would like to do what I do would be to learn the business, always evolve musically, build your following, and when you are starting out -- play anywhere and everywhere.

What's next on the horizon for you?  Do you have any shows coming up?  Plans for your next album?

The next thing on our horizon is more tours and another record.  I never stop writing and I am always looking forward to the next record.  We just got back from a tour in the UK and now we are leaving this week to do a tour in Maryland, Virginia, and North Carolina then back to Jersey.  In April, we are in Germany and the Netherlands.

How can people find you online? (Bandcamp? Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Youtube, etc.?)

We have a Billy Walton Band Facebook page, an Instagram page, and you could check us out on our YouTube page, but most importantly check out BillyWaltonband.com for upcoming dates near you.

Toy Cars - Paint Brain (Album Review)

By Deaglan Howlett | Posted Friday, February 23, 2018

For fans of: Manchester Orchestra, Brand New

On January 12th, Toy Cars released their first full-length album, Paint Brain.  Having been two years since their last release (2016’s Sleeping Patterns EP), Toy Cars have used this time to produce a mature, definitive sound.  Paint Brain defies the usual “punk” sound of their hometown, Asbury Park.  The lyrics are raw and emotional and the instrumentation is above and beyond “local band” expectations.

Toy Cars are made up of Matteo DeBenedetti on Vocals/Guitar, Matt Caponegro on Guitar/Vocals, Chris Beninato on Bass, and drummer Mike Linardi.  With multiple tours under their belt, the four are a solid, tight knit sounding group.  Beninato and Linardi’s synced rhythm leave a perfect canvas for DeBenedetti’s lyrics and Caponegro’s spacey sounding guitar to truly shine on this release.  Not a single note on this release is out of place and you can really hear the amount of thought that went into every aspect of writing and recording this album.  Toy Cars gave their fans their greatest release to date.

Paint Brain was produced and engineered by Erik Kase Romero at Lakehouse Recording Studio in Asbury Park.  Romero has produced Toy Cars' previous releases as well, including Sleeping Patterns and Letters.  Being a longtime producer of the band, it seems like he was an obvious choice to produce Paint Brain, and their choice proves true.  Having seen Toy Cars live numerous times, Romero perfectly encapsulated their live sound.

To me, Paint Brain is for anyone who has ever doubted themselves or felt unsure about anything.  DeBenedetti’s lyrics are heartfelt and certain.  On “Leaving A/B” he sings, “I woke up alone in Tennessee, trying to get back to something I lost that got away from me, maybe I should try.”  His lyrics give the listener a sense that he is with them and that he has “been there too.”  There is a real “you are not alone” sense to this album that I absolutely adore.  Even when he says “I”, the listener can put his/herself in that position and relate to what DeBenedetti is trying to convey.  Toy Cars have released an unbelievable album and you owe it to yourself to give it a listen.  You can purchase Paint Brain here.

MOTO Records (Interview with Joey Affatato)

By Deaglan Howlett | Posted Tuesday, February 13, 2018

I recently reached out to Joey Affatato, guitarist and singer of The Carousers and The Ramparts Rebel.  Affatato is an avid contributor and supporter of the NJ music scene and is a member of Asbury Park’s MOTO Records.  He was kind enough to answer some questions I had about MOTO and what they are all about.  Cheers, Joey!

What is MOTO Records?

Joey Affatato:  MOTO Records is a collaborative independent record label that aims to provide state-of-the-art recording opportunities at Lakehouse Recording Studios, as well as continued professional resources and artistic support before, during, and after the recording process.

MOTO Records will create a community of Artist Program students who are looking to take their music career to the next level.  In addition to the advice, direction, and overall mentorship they will receive from the leaders of the label, MOTO Records artists will be encouraged to collaborate and help each other to turn all of their hard work into exciting, professional music!

MOTO Records features:

- Step-by-step guidance through the budgeting, pre-production, recording, mixing, and mastering process at Lakehouse Recording Studios, including a special recording rate for MOTO Records artists

- Information from program directors on how to register, publish, and distribute all recorded songs for the MOTO Records label

- Direction on social media creation/promotion/maintenance

- Access to email/mailing lists for professional songwriters/musicians

- A significant list of professional resources (photography/videography, radio, merchandising, design/branding, performance/booking, and more) that MOTO Records artists can personally use to further multiple aspects of their careers

- Inclusion on MOTO Records-run concerts and events

Whenever an artist has recorded artist program songs, an original band may be formed to play the songs with the artist at potential future live shows.

- Inclusion on the Artist Program/MOTO Records/Lakehouse Music YouTube channel

- Information and direction for parents and/or business partners on how to executive produce/manage their artist

- Aside from co-writing/publishing splits, artists will not sign any contracts or be held to any long-standing obligation from MOTO Records.  MOTO Records artists are free to pursue any opportunities that will benefit their career.

Who is part of it?

The label is run by Artist Program Directors (Albie Monterrosa, Eric Novod, and Jon Leidersdorff) and young industry professionals (Joey Affatato, Jordan Witt, and additional Lakehouse team members).

Why?

We wanted to be able to support our artists by offering guidance as to how to market themselves appropriately, resources to use, how to get their music on different platforms, etc.  

Long term goals?

- Get artists playing at least 2/3 times a month

- CDs to further promote the label

- Have artists managing themselves and fully understand the value of each marketing element and what it can do for an artist -- Publicity, Radio, Live Performance, Merchandise

Recent accomplishments?

- Our artist Sonic Blume recently opened up for Gaten Matarazzo's (Dustin from Stranger Things) band Work In Progress at Starland Ballroom http://on.app.com/2CcMJLq

- Georgia Owen got featured on NJ.com http://bit.ly/2AfqbN3

- The label was featured in The Aquarian Weekly http://bit.ly/2nYHw56

- Had our biggest show to date at an in-store Russo Music show last month

How did it start?

A lot of our artists wanted to continue writing and studying while simultaneously learning how to get their music out in the world and start marketing themselves.  So the educational label seemed like the next step to take to support our artists.

~

Make sure you give MOTO Records a like on Facebook and support their bands!

Sonic Blume (EP Review)

By Deaglan Howlett | Posted Tuesday, February 13, 2018

For fans of: The Smiths, Mac Demarco, Cocteau Twins

Sonic Blume is a four-piece, indie rock outfit based out of Monmouth County.  Founded in 2015, their debut, self-titled EP was released November 4th, 2017.  The EP was released on Moto Records, a record label based out of Asbury Park.  While it has only been a few short months since their release, Sonic Blume already boasts thousands of plays on their Spotify and recently opened up for Work In Progress, Gaten Matarazzo from Stranger Things's band.

The group consists of Max Connery, Daniel Murray, Andrew Phelan and Chase Landgrebe, and their influences range from The Smiths to Mac Demarco.  In a time where the dreamy sounds of the 80’s are becoming more and more popular, Sonic Blume fits right in.  The group has a sound reminiscent of 80’s UK dream pop; think Slowdive and Cocteau Twins.  While their sound has hints of nostalgia, the group maintains a mature, modern sound.  While the guitar lines sound like something Johnny Marr would play, the vocals remind the listener of everyone’s favorite Canadian, Mac Demarco.

This brilliant blend of 80’s and modern music shines particularly well on their track “First Nite.”  The song is upbeat yet dreamy, with most instruments on the track drenched in reverb (a sound I am particularly fond of).  This track really allows Landgrebe to show off his tasteful, Marr-driven guitar work.  “First Nite” is a perfect encapsulation of what so many loved about the early 80’s dream pop bands.  I find it extremely impressive that this young group has such a handle on a particularly eclectic genre.

Clocking in around 22 minutes, this release is a time machine straight back to 1980’s UK.  Sonic Blume manages to pull off a difficult sound without coming off cliche or pretentious.  I am really looking forward to seeing this group grow.  Listen to their great debut here.

Interview with Carlsea (Chelsea Carlson)

By Sonia Schnee | Posted Thursday, February 8, 2018

Northern NJ singer-songwriter Carlsea (aka Chelsea Carlson) has taken on a new sound -- and a new stage name -- with the release of her upcoming single, "Windows."  Read about her exciting transformation, and Coffeehouse Tour of New Jersey, below. 

What’s your name?  Where are you from?  Where are you based now?

My name is Carlsea (aka Chelsea Carlson).  I am originally from West Orange, NJ but currently live in Mount Olive.

Tell us about your upcoming single.  Where did you record?

I’m so excited to have a new single coming out soon!  The song is called “Windows” and is one of the most meaningful songs I have written.  I recorded with a producer I met through the Women in Music Network, Chrissy Tignor.  She is a professor at Berklee College of Music, which just so happens to be where I went to school, so we actually recorded up in Boston.  It was a lot of fun to get back into the studio, work with Chrissy, and revisit my old stomping grounds.

How would you describe your sound?  How does it compare to your past work? 

2018 is my year to try out some new music and experiment with new genres -– so while my previous releases have all leaned towards rock music, “Windows” and the new music I’m working on definitely are more modern, electronic, and pop-inspired.  I’m all about not boxing myself into one thing, and I’m so excited to be stepping a little outside my comfort zone and trying my hand at pop music.

What inspired you to take on a new sound and stage name?

A lot of things inspired the change.  Changing my sound was something that was a long time coming.  When I first started seriously writing and performing music, I was like sixteen-years-old and in the thick of my hippie stage (we all have one) -– and for a long time, I wanted to stay true to the original vision I had for myself back then: classic rock musician who played “real” music.  Of course, then I grew up!  And I realized there is a lot of “real” music out there, and I was totally closing myself off to new possibilities by trying to preserve this teenage vision of myself.  When I stopped trying to stay within the “rock and roll” parameters, I ended up writing a lot of new music -– and it felt really great and natural to be writing for myself without any limitations!  I’ve known for a while that these new songs were leading me in a new direction sound-wise, but it wasn’t until last year that I really figured out what that direction would be.  When I realized things were going to change so drastically, I figured I wanted to mark the occasion... new sound, new name!  And so “Carlsea” was born!

Who are your influences, musically?

I am influenced by a lot of musicians, but I would say my new sound is mainly influenced by alt-pop musicians such as Aurora, Sia, and Lorde, and singer/songwriters like Christina Perri and Sara Bareilles.  My absolute favorite musician at the moment is Aurora, who is a Norwegian singer/songwriter who mixes elements of traditional folk music with electronic music.  I think it’s so awesome to take two genres that are so totally different from each other and make something cohesive and unique.  That’s definitely the sort of thing I’m going for with my new music -– keeping the lyrical content and storytelling but against the new backdrop of electronic music.

How did you get started with music?  What’s been your personal journey?

I come from a very musical family, so music has always been a huge part of my life!  I suppose I formally started playing music when I was in fourth grade –- which is when I started a “band” with my cousins and began writing songs.  I was involved in all sorts of music activities throughout school and ultimately went to Berklee College of Music for Professional Music and electric bass when college rolled around.  Since returning to New Jersey in 2011, I’ve been doing the whole singer/songwriter thing!  I’m lucky enough to have performed at over 100 venues and festivals all along the east coast, have worked with amazing producers and musicians, and have released numerous singles and a full album.  I've performed in bands and as a solo artist, spoken at conferences, had my music played on radio stations across the country, and run plenty of open mics and songwriter circles.  I'm also a music teacher and really focus on not only teaching my students to be skilled musicians but also how to survive in this crazy world known as the music industry.  It’s been nearly seven years (holy crap!) and a great journey so far, but it’s really only just getting started!

Are there any artists, bands, or producers you’d love to collaborate with one day?

If I had to pick one person I’d love to collaborate with, it would be Sia.  She’s one of my favorite people in music because she’s been relevant for YEARS but flew under the radar as mostly a songwriter.  And then she was able to break out and be a pop artist and icon of her own at like 40-years-old without ever even showing her face.  I feel like she’d have a lot of interesting advice and stories to share with an aspiring artist like myself, and of course she’s a fantastic songwriter.  She’s able to take these really dark lyrics and themes and make them songs you can dance to.  It would be awesome to co-write a song with her!

What words of advice or encouragement would you give to someone who wants to follow a similar passion, or is maybe facing obstacles similar to what you’ve faced?

My biggest piece of advice is to work hard.  Get out there are perform, write songs, meet people, have an online presence, and PRACTICE :)  There is no such thing as “getting discovered” anymore.  You have to be in it to win it, so get out there and show everyone what you’ve got!

What’s next on the horizon for you?  Do you have any shows/tours coming up?  Plans for the next album?

Right now, I’m currently in the middle of my Coffeehouse Tour of New Jersey.  I’m only about a third through, so there are plenty of shows on that lineup still to come -– Espresso Joe’s (Keyport), Green Planet (Point Pleasant), The Fine Grind (Little Falls), Inkwell (Long Branch), and Gainville Cafe (Rutherford) to name a few.  I’ll also be returning to Havana in New Hope, continuing my shows with NJ Transit’s Music in Motion, and more performances to come!  

Currently, my big release will be my upcoming single, “Windows,” but I am already starting to lay the foundation for what will be my next EP.  I have a lot of songs that I am so ready to record and share with the world.

Finally, how can people find you online?  

My official website is http://www.carlsea.com and you can get to all my social media from there.  Or you can just follow these links...

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/cecmusic
Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/carlseamusic
Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/carlseamusic
Youtube: http://www.youtube.com/user/chelseacarlsonmusic
Soundcloud: http://www.youtube.com/user/chelseacarlsonmusic

(Youtube and Soundcloud are still operating under my real name for the moment.)

You can also access my old releases as Chelsea Carlson on Bandcamp, Spotify, Itunes, and pretty much anywhere music is sold!

Idle Wave - "Alpern" (Single Review)

By Deaglan Howlett | Posted Tuesday, January 30, 2018

For fans of: Sorority Noise, Weezer, Osker

Last month Asbury Park’s own, Idle Wave, dropped their first official single, on December 15th.   Despite boasting over one thousand likes on their Facebook page, the single “Alpern” is Idle Wave’s first official release.  The song is a perfect mix of modern and classic pop punk influence.

According to their Facebook page, “Alpern” was produced by Stephen Kellner, recorded and engineered by Joe DeMaio at Shorefire Studios, mixed by Tim Pannella, and mastered by Jack Shirley at The Atomic Garden Recording Studio.

When I asked lead singer Guy Battaglia about his band and “Alpern” he told me:

“Idle Wave is an Asbury Park Pop Punk band starring Guy Battaglia, Kevin Houston and Joe Enright.  The trio have performed together in bands of various genres since 2012 and solidified their sound as Idle Wave in 2017.  Heavily influenced by legends such as Weezer and modern rockers Sorority Noise, the boys pack a punch with their heavy harmonies, spicy solos, and raucous rhythms.  Their debut single “Alpern” tells the story of how the band formed and grew up together over the past few years facing the challenges that ended up at their door.  Under the surface, the song tests Battaglia’s composure and amplified the band's frustrations through their instruments.  The song is available on Spotify, Apple Music, Tidal and YouTube.”

My first listen of “Alpern” immediately hit me with influence from 90’s punk darlings Osker and Weezer, yet Idle Wave managed to translate these influences into a modern sound.  The time they spent cutting their teeth in earlier bands proved successful when forming Idle Wave and putting out their first single “Alpern.”  For their first single, “Alpern” is polished and mature sounding, a very difficult feat to accomplish on a first release.

I truly look forward to what Idle Wave has in store for us this year.  Make sure you see them next time they play, and in the meantime listen to “Alpern,” available online just about everywhere.

Listen to "Alpern" here: https://open.spotify.com/album/4HOPIlkgL8SnMPYHYBdBnL

Halogens - "Pretty Enough" (Single Review)

By Deaglan Howlett | Posted Monday, January 29, 2018

For fans of: Modern Baseball, The Front Bottoms, Captain, We’re Sinking

Just before 2017 ended, Halogens dropped their best song yet.  On December 30th, they released “Pretty Enough” on their Bandcamp, available as “pay what you want.”  Their last release was a split EP with Staten, released December of 2016, so fans had been waiting an entire year for new recorded music.  Halogens did not disappoint with “Pretty Enough,” their latest single, and they plan on releasing more music later this year.

For fans of Halogens, “Pretty Enough” is not a brand new song.  The group from Wall, NJ had been playing this song live throughout 2017, and fans had already learned the words long before its official release.  Luckily for the fans, though, “Pretty Enough” got the proper recording it deserved by the group’s longtime producer Adam Cichocki, out of Timber Studios.  Cichocki recorded Halogens' 2016 self-titled EP as well, and he knows exactly how they're supposed to sound.

“Pretty Enough” picks up right where Halogens’ self-titled EP left off.  The track deals with heavy subject matter, yet Zach Henry’s voice translates the lyrics in a way that sounds hopeful.  There is something about Henry’s sometimes self-deprecating lyrics that are so relatable for the listener.   At their live shows, Halogens are able to get the crowd to scream back particularly sad lyrics, yet they do so with gigantic smiles on their faces.  “Pretty Enough” is no exception.  While the lyrical content may be somber, there is a certain sense that Henry is there for you, as if he knew you may have felt this way before, too.

Halogens plans on releasing new music later this year.  Until then, learn all the words to “Pretty Enough” so you can scream along at their next show.

You can listen to "Pretty Enough" here.

Interview with Will Wood

By Sonia Schnee | Posted Friday, January 19, 2018

On Saturday, February 3rd, northern NJ experimental rock, alt-pop wonders Will Wood and the Tapeworms are set to release their newest album, The Real, coupled with a benefit concert for mental health research at Roxy and Duke's Roadhouse in Dunellen, NJ.  Check out our interview with frontman/singer-songwriter/instrumentalist Will Wood, below. 

Tell us about your new album.  How would you describe your sound?  How does it compare to your past work? 

Will Wood:  The Real is a delirium tremens vision.  A synesthetic rainbow.  A neon hurricane.  A staggering 21-track record so bold and brash we can’t fit the whole thing onto a CD.  Recorded at sold out shows in 2017, in front of hundreds of face-painted Tapeworm Hosts screaming in tongues only we can decode. It’s a dangerous listen -- pump this through your headphones and just try not to pump it so loud you blast your own eardrums out.  It’s a death wish.  It’s a lifestyle.  It’s an entheogenic Gaspar Noe film soaked in blood and glitter.  Am I selling it?  A 9-piece big band playing whacked-out versions of old tunes, and solo performances of new tunes -- it doesn’t sound like anything we’ve put out before, thank god.  I can’t stand to stand still. 

How did you get started with music?  What's been your personal journey?  What has inspired you to do what you do? 

I was more raised by tight-shirt, high-collared, cardigan-draped, pseudo-intellectuals in the hallowed halls of Spencer Preparatory School in Connecticut than I was by the couch-locked accountants who adopted me and called me "son."  Music was a requirement.  I wanted to play violin.  But my hands were too heavy, my precision lacked, my arms incessantly shook with an essential neurological tremor, and I was sat down at a piano in grade three.  I was not allowed to give it up until it was too late.  I had already written a garbage tune about the hallucination of a six-legged cat I had seen in the common room.  Write one song, you’re done for.  I’m stuck now. Like a confirmed cigarette smoker.  I’ll be doing this even when they’ve punched a stoma in my throat, stuck tubes up my nose, and cut off my feet. 

What words of advice or encouragement would you give to someone who wants to follow a similar passion, or is maybe facing obstacles similar to what you've faced? 

Don’t.

But if you must.

Ignore anyone who tells you not to.

Especially me.

Tell us about the benefit concert you have coming up.  What can people expect?  Beyond that, what's next on the horizon for Will Wood and the Tapeworms?

The upcoming album release party/benefit concert at Roxy & Duke’s on February 3rd is a fundraiser for the Brain and Behavior Research Foundation.  This massive charity foundation provides huge financial grants to talented scientists in the field of mental health research.  They’ve raised over $300,000,000 so far in grants, and researchers they’ve awarded grants to have gone on to receive over $4,000,000,000 from other foundations partly due to the BBRF’s influence.  This, we feel, is an opportunity to try and make a concrete, positive difference in the world.  Every little bit counts.  The show is set to be our biggest show yet -- featuring Super Snake, Electric Sensei, Bobby Mahoney, and of course yours truly.  It will be soaked in blacklight, covered in confetti, and packed to the brim.  We’re almost sold out.  Hurry up and get your tickets here: https://goo.gl/zsDvrC.  Tour dates are coming soon.

Finally, how can people find you online? 

You can follow us on Insta & Snapchat at @tapewormsmusic, and like us on FB at Facebook.com/willwoodandthetapeworms.  You can also sign up for our newsletter on willwoodandthetapeworms.com to be kept in the loop on everything.  If that’s not enough, supporting us on Patreon at patreon.com/willwoodandthetapeworms can get you deep into the inner circle -- see what’s happening behind the scenes, get free merch, hear unreleased music, and get oddball little packages in the mail.

Interview with PARKWILD

Check out PARKWILD's debut single, here: 
http://open.spotify.com/track/2nB2Mb2vx0rMci5GTyn3PQ

By Sonia Schnee | Posted Friday, January 19, 2018

Today, NJ/Minnesota alt-pop duo PARKWILD are releasing their debut single, "Too Late."  Check out our interview with Austin Zudeck and Justin Thunstrom, below, and learn about their journey to becoming "PARKWILD." 

What are your names, Where are you from, and Where are you based now?

We’re Austin Zudeck and Justin Thunstrom, collectively known as PARKWILD.

I [Austin] grew up in Livingston, NJ.

I [Justin] grew up in Minnesota.

We both currently live in New York, but we operate out of our studio in Roseland, NJ most of the time.

Tell us about your new single. How would you describe your sound? 

Our debut single "Too Late" was recorded in our studio in Roseland.  We initially wrote the song on a writing trip to Los Angeles where we were writing predominantly for other artists, as we are also writer/producers.  We wrote the song with Nick Seeley, Andrew Tinker and Emily Vaughn, and after we wrote it we knew it had to be for PARKWILD instead of someone else.  It just felt right and came from such a personal place for both of us.  We’ve been trying for years to discover what truly felt like our sound, and once we it hit, we just knew.  In terms of our sound, we fall somewhere between Imagine Dragons, One Republic, and the darkness of Halsey.

What's been your personal journey? What has inspired you to do what you do? Are there any artists, bands, or producers who you'd love to collaborate with one day?

From age 2, I [Austin] used to carry a guitar around wherever I would go.  When most kids carried a blanket, I carried a guitar.  I started as a child actor from a very young age.  Though I only landed a handful of gigs, I was finding myself regularly involved in various theatrical productions.  I realized that I gravitated heavily towards the music side of it, rather than the acting.  Around that same time, at age 13, I got asked to fill in on lead vocals for a friend's band and was hooked.  I picked up guitar, and bought a recording rig, and the rest was history.  I haven’t stopped since and don’t plan on stopping as long as I have something to say that other people will relate to.  To me, music is all about communication, and as long as I can do that, I’m going to keep doing that.  I’d love to collaborate with Ryan Tedder of One Republic, as he is so much of what I aspire to be.

I [Justin] first discovered music at the age of 3 when I would be at my grandma’s house where she had a piano.  Starting from an early age, I would hit random keys and would find the ones that sounded good together and essentially learned all the chords and key signatures without knowing what they were called.  A few years later, I took drum and guitar lessons, leading me to combine all of these skills into music production.  After I discovered producing, I was obsessed and haven’t ever turned back.  I have always been inspired by people around me, inside and outside music, who have had an impact on me personally and subsequently musically.  I am also inspired by the process of creating music as well; those moments in the studio when a little idea inspires everyone to come together and create something amazing.  It would be awesome to collaborate with The Futuristics as they have been a long-time inspiration.

What words of advice or encouragement would you give to someone who wants to follow a similar passion, or is maybe facing obstacles similar to what you've faced?

Just dive in.  We know that it might seem impossible, whether financially, or for a million different reasons, but we believe that if you go in 110% without any other options, there is no other path except success.  Justin and I have been able to take that mindset and commit ourselves entirely to music, and it's what we now have the privilege of doing every day for a living because we didn’t give ourselves any other option.

What's next on the horizon for PARKWILD?  Do you have any shows coming up?  Plans for the next album?

Our single "Too Late" is out now, so we are doing a lot of campaigning around that.  Additionally, we are already planning on our second single release for our song "We’ll Never Change," which will be coming out in March.  Other than that, we are going to start playing some shows later this spring/summer, and we will continue writing and producing for PARKWILD and various other artists.

Finally, how can people find you online? 

Facebook: @parkwildmusic
Twitter: @parkwildmusic
Instagram: @parkwild
Youtube: @parkwild -- content coming soon

Interview with Please Exist

In September 2017, northern NJ heavy indie power duo, Please Exist, released their new album, Slow Dance to the Apocalypse.  Check out the interview with bandmates Ralph Chudley and John T. Fisher below to learn about the inspiration behind their latest work and to hear their words of encouragement for anyone who's willing to follow a dream. 

What are your names and where are you from? 

We are Ralph Chudley (Guitar, Vocals) and John T. Fisher (Drums, Vocals) and our band is called Please Exist.  We are from the Dover/Rockaway area in Northern New Jersey. 

Tell us about your new album, Slow Dance to the Apocalypse.  How does it compare with your past work?  Who are your influences, musically? 

R.C:  Our new record, Slow Dance to the Apocalypse, is a collection of songs we've written over the course of the past 5 or 6 years.  It was recorded, mixed, mastered, and produced by Joe Egan at Missile Silo Studios in Hopatcong, NJ.  He's full of great ideas and was able to get me to perform vocally better than anyone has.  Compared to our past work, most of these songs were actually written quite a while ago.  While we do have an EP that came long before this, I would say a lot of Slow Dance was being written when that came out.  So this is basically a freshman album for us.  However, we've had other musical endeavors in the past.  Other bands.  This one seems more focused.  We are on the same page. 

I'm not sure that there was an influence to make this album beyond just having the need and the desire to create music and to tell fantastical stories and paint pictures with our music.  As far as direct musical influences, we both listen to a lot of different things.  For me personally, the influences that find their way into our music would be Nine Inch Nails, Queens of the Stone Age, Norma Jean, Deftones, Sunny Day Real Estate, Nirvana, and Far.  Jamie Lenman is my favorite songwriter of all time, so anything that he does. 

J.F.:  SDTTA is a really special and monumental record for us.  It seems crazy, but we started this band back in 2008.  Since then we’ve written over 50 songs!  However, up until now we’ve not succeeded in recording and releasing more than a handful of them.  We began to record a full length a few years back but ran into many problems along the way and it remains unfinished.  This feels great to finally see the project through from start to finish. 

I’m gonna piggyback on what Ralph has already said and add that Joe is really a master of understanding how to capture a band’s sound.  He gets how our songs should sound and better than that he gets how we want them to sound.  Making this record with him was an absolute pleasure.  Out of the many recording sessions I’ve had over the years, this one was by far the most stress-free and enjoyable.  That’s something that really goes a long way because when you’re recording with someone you trust, you allow yourself to focus more on just playing the material as best you can. 

As far as how this album relates to our past work, I’d say that it’s a definite progression on every level.  This material is more complex and I think more interesting.  With each new venture, you want to push yourself creatively and with this record, I think we’ve done that just as we continue to do with our new material.   As Ralph said, I don’t think anything necessarily inspired us to do this record other than the need and want to create music and tell cool stories with said music. 

Personal influences for me with music, in general, includes pretty much everything I have ever listened to both good and bad, but some of my favorite artists of all time are Nirvana, Annoying Customer, Pixies, Helmet, Primus, Ned’s Atomic Dustbin, Fugazi, NIN, and countless others.  There’s usually never a direct influence for me when writing music, but there are always tones of whatever I may be listening to at the time that tend to seep into our songwriting.  Usually unconsciously but sometimes not haha. 

What's been your personal journey?  What has inspired you?  Do you have any dream collaborations? 

R.C.:  I’m 34 now.  I joined my first band when I was 12.  I started out on drums and did that through a good portion of my 20s.  I always had the desire to write my own songs, and for a long time I did that on the side.  Most of the time with John playing the drums, but with other people too.  A bass player.  A keyboardist at one point.  The problem with playing drums is that you're pretty helpless when the key songwriter for your band calls it quits.  So after many bands falling apart, I just decided to make writing my own songs my focus.  I knew that it would never fall apart because I'd always want to be writing and performing.  Having John as a drummer/bandmate was a no-brainer.  He's a great drummer, he's always believed in my songs, and he's one of my dearest friends.  After many endeavors that didn't work out, we just decided to keep it a two-piece.  Keep it simple. 

If I could collaborate with anyone on a song, it would be Gwen Stefani.  I just love her voice so much.  So much firepower in her melodies.  So if your reading this Gwen, let's make it happen!  It would also be a dream come true to do a record with Brad Wood.  One day, maybe. 

J.F.:  I played some instruments in school bands growing up, but it never really connected with me.  In the school setting, it always became work.  Having to fill out practice charts for so many minutes a day definitely took the fun out of it.  I played violin from 3rd to 6th grade, then from 7th to freshman year of high school (when I decided to throw in the towel), I played saxophone.  I thought I was done with music at that point, but my best friend Adam Kaniper (who was an amazing guitarist even when we were kids) started playing music with our mutual best friend Ned Mears.  At that point, Adam said, “you should learn drums,”  so in the 16th year of my life I started to do exactly that.  It wasn't really even an option.  I had to do it.  I never had any formal training.  I just a borrowed kit from Adam’s dad and tried to play along with some of my favorite records, so armed with that and the need/want to make music with my best friends, I was well on my way.  For me, it gave a level of fun and excitement to music that until then I didn’t know was even possible.  Almost 20 years later, I’m still making music with my friends.  I can’t imagine my life without that in some capacity.  I’ll be making music to the end of my days. 

I met Ralph when I was 17 and started playing music with him when I was 19.  Since then, we’ve been in a couple different bands together on and off to varying degrees of success, but this time since it was just the two of us, it’s been easier to coordinate and keep going.  We’re both pretty laid back so our practices, writing process, and everything in between are low stress.  It’s easy to be in this band, and that’s how we like it!  The great thing about making music with Ralph is that we both like a lot of the same things and since we’ve been playing together for so long we have a musical shorthand that makes writing so easy.  We both have a tendency to compliment each others' musical parts almost as second nature.  Sometimes entire songs just flow out of us on the first go.  In addition to all of that, Ralph is easily one of my favorite songwriters in general and certainly my favorite lyricist.  The tonal landscapes he creates coupled with his detailed, descriptive and clever lyrics paint an undeniable picture in the listener’s mind that is unlike anything else I’ve ever listened to.  It’s awesome to be able to call him my friend.  It’s even more amazing to be able to create music with him.  It’s an honor. 

Oooo I second Gwen Stefani on the collaboration front.  That’d be so cool!!!  Brad Wood would be awesome, too.  I ‘d like to record with Steve Albini one day as well. 

What words of advice or encouragement would you give to someone who wants to follow a similar passion, or is maybe facing obstacles similar to what you've faced? 

R.C.:  I encourage anyone who wants to start a band or a solo career to just do it.  There's nothing like the feeling of having a catalogue of work that's yours.  Don't ever think you're not good enough or that your songs aren't good enough.  Just have fun and express yourself however you need to.  Whether it's drums, guitar.... singing about politics or astronauts.  Whatever you want.  Don't let anyone stop you.  You're going to play last, with no one else in the room.  Don't get discouraged.  Someone's going to like your stuff no matter what.  Most importantly, and I feel strongly about this... you are not your day job.  Make the time to do the things you love, no matter what.  What you do to pay bills is irrelevant.  I work 55 to 60 hours a week doing something that has nothing to do with music, to pay bills.  But if you ask me what I do, I'll tell you I'm a songwriter.  Get out there.  Create.  Leave your mark. 

J.F.:  I agree with everything Ralph said there 100%.  I couldn’t have said it better.  Like he said, the first and foremost step with anything creative is to just buckle down and do it.  Stop talking about doing it and just do it.  Even if what you come up with isn’t great or how you wanted it to be, it’s still better than if you had done nothing, and that leaves you with room to grow and make it better the next time around.  You’re always going to see/hear all the flaws in your own work, but you are still way ahead of the guy who sat back and did nothing because he or she was afraid to.  You did it!  You created!  Now do it again and do it better and never stop because life is short.  At the end of it all, what do we really have other than the things we’ve created.  For me, the arts give a satisfying tangibility to one’s existence.  Please Exist ;) 

What's next on the horizon for Please Exist?  Do you have any shows coming up?  Plans for the next album? 

R.C.:  We have huge plans for a next record!  We are currently working on a concept album based upon the idea of an insane asylum.  Something like Arkham Asylum.  With each song being about a patient with his or her own story to tell.  The title, as of now, will be Storytellers in Straightjackets.  We currently have no shows booked, but we'll pretty much play anytime, anywhere with a tad bit notice.  Being a two-piece is awesome in regards to scheduling.

J.F.:  Since SDTTA, we actually recorded and released an EP titled “Let The Nighttime Live” (a sister EP to our previous “Let The Daytime Die”).  In addition to that and the process of writing the next epic full length that Ralph mentioned above, we have 5 other songs we’ve begun to record that will be part of a split release with our friends Deja Gravy.  We are also in post-production on our first music video!  It’s for the song "Chernobyl Has A Ferris Wheel" and it should be pretty cool.  I’m currently finishing the editing, and it should be out in the coming month or two.  Once it’s released, we have some cool ideas for a couple more videos as well.  

Finally, how can people find you online? 

You can find us on Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/pleaseexist) for social media.  That’s the page we’re most active on, and it’s probably the best way to get in contact with us.  We’ll probably get around to an Instagram page one of these days.  All our music can be found on our Bandcamp (https://pleaseexist.bandcamp.com) page.  We also have a central hub blog-type page that is updated infrequently but has links to all things Please Exist, including a youtube playlist of live vids (http://pleaseexist.blogspot.com).   If you’d like us to play your show/event/whatever, send us a message! 

Layups 4 Life & Bolt Fitness Charity Workout Class (Jan. 27, 2018)

PRESS RELEASE

LAYUPS 4 LIFE IS PARTNERING WITH BOLD FITNESS & PERFORMANCE TRAINING FOR A CHARITY WORKOUT CLASS.  DONATIONS RAISED WILL BENEFIT LAYUPS 4 LIFE'S FUNDRAISING EFFORTS TOWARDS CANCER RESEARCH AND CLINICAL TRAILS AT MEMORIAL SLOAN KETTERING CANCER CENTER.

CHESTER, NJ -- On Saturday, January 27, 2018 (10:00 am) Layups 4 Life if partnering with BOLT Fitness & Performance Training for a 50-minute charity 'SWEAT' workout class.  Participants are asked to make a charitable donation in order to partake in the class.  BOLT, started by Michael Baker, a Fitness and Physical Preparation Specialist, founded this gym with the intention of providing guidance to both adults and athletes within fitness and performing training.  SWEAT classes are designed to shed body fat in a fast paced group setting.  Workouts constist of mostly bodyweight and light-weight low impact exercises that can be modified for any level of fitness.  Layups 4 Life is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that is founded on the principles of making a differentce in the fight against cancert.  It is L4L's mission to help raise vital funds for cancer research and clinical trials.  Since 2014, Layups 4 Life raised over $50,000 and has made contributions to leukeia, pediatric and bone barrow research departments throughout Memorial Sloan Ketting Cancer Center (MSKCC).

Those interested in registering for the class should email Mike Bakes at mikebaker@boltfitperform.com. Bolt Fitness & Performance Training is located at: 347 Main Street, Unit 3, Chester, NJ 07930. 
www.boltfitnessperformance.com

Interested in more events hosted by Layups 4 Life?  Contact Dan Exter: layups4life@gmail.com or call Dan at 973-219-1893.  For all of the latest news and information about L4L, please go to our website at www.layups4life.org.  Make sure to follow us on all social media platforms using @layups4life.

CONTACT
Dan Exter, Founder
973-219-1893
dan@layups4life.org or layups4life@gmail.com
www.layups4life.org

Atom Driver - In the West (EP Review)

By Deaglan Howlett | Posted Friday, December 29, 2017

I recently received an email to check out a band by the name of Atom Driver.  Without doing any prior research, I went straight to the Bandcamp link and pressed play.  The first song that started playing was “Play Dead,” the last song on their latest effort, In the West.  Immediately I heard 90’s darlings Drive Like Jehu, and I was pleasantly surprised.  I had yet to hear a local band with that sound, and Atom Driver immediately caught my attention.

According to their Facebook page, “Atom Driver is something of a New Brunswick, NJ supergroup.  Each member has a distinguished pedigree, associated with many different successful local indie rock, punk, and hardcore outfits.  Together, this trio has bundled their deep roots and experience in making music to present a sound both new and simultaneously reminiscent of seminal bands from Barkmarket and Bastro to Fugazi and Drive Like Jehu.”

Before I even found their bio on Facebook, I could hear their influences.  However, with these influences they manage to maintain a unique sound that can really only be described as “Atom Driver.”  The trio consists of accomplished musicians, using their experiences to create a mature and well-defined sound.  Mike Polilli drums for the group, a former Alternative Tentacles recording artist for the group Buzzkill.  On bass is Justin Ingstrup, a musician who has played in Doc Hopper, Good, Clean, Fun and projects with members of The Dillinger Escape Plan.  Covering guitar and vocals is Mark Segal, singer of Boss Jim Gettys, a beloved indie New Brunswick band.  Put together, the group makes blistering, post-punk music that is guaranteed to make the listener nostalgic for Drive Like Jehu and Rocket From The Crypt’s heyday.

However, there is no longer a need for post-punk nostalgia.  Instead, you can put on Atom Driver’s latest release, In the West.  My personal favorites are “All This and More” and “Play Dead,” but the rest of the EP is full of blistering punk rock.  This release is original and a step in the right direction from last year’s demo.  I look forward to what is in store from this group.  Listen to the album here!

Bobby Mahoney and the Seventh Son - "Empty Passenger Seats" (Single Review)

By Deaglan Howlett | Posted Tuesday, December 26, 2017

For fans of: The Gaslight Anthem, Beach Slang, Against Me!

Bobby Mahoney and the Seventh Son are an alternative rock band based out of East Brunswick, New Jersey.  The group’s current line up consists of Bobby Mahoney on guitar/vocals, Andrew Saul guitar/vocals, John Shepherd bass/vocals, and James McIntosh on drums.  Their latest single “Empty Passenger Seats” was released September 13th with a new recording of 2014’s Friends in Low Places track “Another Deadbeat Summer.”  “Empty Passenger Seats” is yet another anthemic rock song from the group that sounds unmistakably “New Jersey.”

The track perfectly encapsulates a late night summer drive like only a New Jersey band can.  The song echoes Jersey heroes The Gaslight Anthem in quite a flattering way, both lyrically and instrumentation-wise.  The song is raw and emotional, and the listener can tell Mahoney has put his all into the lyrics and vocal performance.  Being as familiar as I am with Mahoney’s music, to me, this is the most honest song I have yet to hear from him.  This is truly the sound of Bobby Mahoney and the Seventh Son.

The second track on the single, or side b, is a new recording of “Deadbeat Summer” off of 2014’s release Friends in Low Places.  This version is faster and features some saxophone, courtesy of Zack Sandler.  This track is the perfect companion to “Empty Passenger Seats,” demonstrating the timelessness of Mahoney’s tracks.

This single is just the beginning for new music in 2018 from Bobby Mahoney and the Seventh Son.  Keep your eyes open for new music from them and make sure you check them out at the Stone Pony on December, 30th!

Listen to “Empty Passenger Seats” here.

Read more: Bobby Mahoney and the Seventh Son (EP Review)

The Carousers (EP Review)

By Deaglan Howlett | Posted Tuesday, December 26, 2017

For fans of: Green Day, The Bouncing Souls, Frank Turner

The Carousers are a three-piece punk band hailing from Long Branch, New Jersey.  The group is made up of Joey Affatato on vocals and guitar, Cassidy Crosby on bass and vocals, and Andy Jackle on drums.  The three-piece takes influences from Weezer, Green Day and the Foo Fighters, yet they still retain that unique “Jersey” sound.  The Carousers’ first effort is a self-titled EP that was released October 6th.

I was truly shocked that this was the group’s first release as “The Carousers.”  The EP is polished and sounds like they had been playing together for years.  The Carousers produced this release with help from Sean Glonek.  The record was recorded in Hamilton Square, New Jersey at SRG studios.  Glonek also engineered, mixed and mastered this release.  Clearly, he knew what the group was going for because the production on this release is absolutely perfect and really encapsulates The Carousers’ live set.

The Carousers packed five, high energy songs into this short EP.  The whole release clocks in just over ten minutes.  In this short amount of time, there are songs of heartbreak, betrayal and moving on.  Affatato manages to write songs with sad lyrical content but presents them as sing-alongs.  His topics are familiar, lending a somewhat personal experience when listening to these songs.  The melodies are catchy and the instrumentation is simple, providing room for the lyrics to really shine.

When I asked Affatato what they were going for with this release, he told me,

“The majority of these songs were written while I lived at my college house in Long Branch.  I would just sit on my bed strumming an acoustic guitar, trying to write dumb punk songs that people could sing and dance to.  It’s pretty crazy to see what they [the songs] became and how each of us brought that creative spark to the record.  We’re really proud of it and hope you’ll give it a listen!”

My personal favorite on this release is “Cracked Pot.”  The song borrows the Ramones “four chord” rule and is as straightforward as it gets.  However, while the instrumentation may be simple, Affatato and Crosby’s harmonies on the chorus are seriously beautiful.  Who said punk can’t be beautiful?  The harmonies throughout the release are fantastic, but this track really does it for me.

This is The Carousers’ first release, and I seriously cannot wait to hear what else they have in store.  Buy the record here and get to one of their shows!

Indrive - Nice Dream (Album Review)

By Deaglan Howlett | Posted Sunday, December 10, 2017

I was first introduced to Indrive in September at a Mayflower Collective show at the Asbury Park Music Foundation.  Indrive was added late to the bill when one of the bands had to drop, so I was unaware they were even playing until I got there.  I remember walking in while they were playing and hearing them from the entrance of the Music Foundation, which was surprising since the venue is relatively soundproof.  Once I got to the venue at the end of the hallway, I was blown away by the volume they were producing.  They were loud and they were playing music unfamiliar to the typical Jersey Shore scene.  I was hearing shoegaze in Asbury Park, and I was real excited.

Now, Indrive is not a straight-up shoegaze band.  They are a punk band hailing from Freehold, a short drive from the burgeoning music scene of Asbury Park.  The three-piece is made up of Aaron Brenner on guitar, Isaac Harasty on bass and Nick DeFabritus on drums and vocals.  Indrive’s unique punk/shoegaze sound definitely helps the group standout amongst the sea of Asbury bands.  While they have a very defined and original sound, there is a sense of 90’s nostalgia in this EP.  When I first saw them play, they covered a song by the 90’s alternative outfit Hum, and I certainly hear a lot of Hum on this release.

While the record includes sounds ranging from 90’s bands Hum to Failure, there are also more modern day influences on Nice Dream.  The opener “Fine” hit me like an early Basement song.  The noisy “Kevin Shields” guitar riff lends a great background for the vocals on this track.  DeFabritus’ voice sounds lazy, which is something I really enjoy about the band.  His voice is consistent throughout the record and tucked in the back of the mixes with the guitars up real loud.

“Wait” is probably my favorite off the release.  The guitars are real punchy during the verses while the chorus slows down into another My Bloody Valentine-esque guitar riff.  The bass playing on this track is perfectly steady and Harasty even includes some gnarly bends to add to the heaviness of this song.  This track is super dreamy, but if the dream was a nightmare.  The vocals are doused in reverb and sound distant while the guitars and bass bend in and out of tune.  This track really stood out to me and still does.

The EP ends with “Heavens”, the shortest track on the release.  This song is all about the guitar.  The layers of riffs and leads paired with delay and reverb make for a very complex sound.  The vocals are minimal and the song ends with 20 seconds of feedback and drone.  Short and loud, “Heavens” is the perfect closer for the monstrous EP.

I truly enjoyed Indrive’s first release, Nice Dream, and I look forward to watching the band grow.  You can listen to Nice Dream here.

No Such Animals - Create TV (Album Review)

By Deaglan Howlett | Posted Sunday, December 10, 2017

No Such Animals caught my attention when they announced their release show for their first release, Create TV, back in September.  I went to cover the show for Jersey Indie, so I got there early and watched all the bands, recording part of their sets.  When No Such Animals went on, I really had no idea what to expect.  I had never heard of them or seen them on any local bills.  They opened with a new song, and I was pretty blown away.  NSA played as a three-piece and their sound was huge.  Their set was loud, tight and passionate.  This was my introduction to No Such Animals.

According to their Facebook,

“No Such Animals is a project spearheaded by vocalist and guitarist Ryan Romanowski, which has culminated over many years of cassette tape recordings and member changes.  Driven by nostalgia and recognizing the timelessness of early rock music, the band has breached the surface when the three remaining members, Mike Cavalli, Mike Roshe and Bill Grainger, discovered something special by chance through social media.

Knowing what it takes to make a name in the already thriving New Jersey scene, No Such Animals remind us why we support live music and that genres don't always apply.”

However, when I messaged No Such Animals to get some more information on the release, Ryan informed me that they are not a band and it is just him on the release, with help from Charlie Berezansky.  Berezansky recorded the EP and provided bass, but other than that the release is all Romanowski.

“Cigarette” really stood out to me on my first listen of the release.  To me, this was the “pop” track on the record.  The release remains relatively upbeat, other than “Brain Rattle."  This track gave me a real Manchester Orchestra vibe.  Romanowski really showcases his vocal abilities on this track and the song is buried in reverb, giving it a truly dreamy feel.  “Brain Rattle” is probably my favorite on Create TV.  I imagine this track took a lot of work considering how well thought out the instrumentation is, which I truly enjoy.

Ryan and Charlie did a hell of a job on the project’s first release, and I really heard all the work they put into this EP.  Create is well thought out, well-produced and the songs are polished.  One trap I find a lot of local bands falling in on their first release is not having a consistent sound.  However, on this release, Ryan has culminated a sound that is unique and consistent through and through.  Romanowski’s voice really makes this release stand out and his work is truly impressive.  I am definitely looking forward to hearing more from this project.

You can, and should, listen to Create TV here.
 

Steve Burks - These Nights (Album Review)

By Deaglan Howlett | Posted Sunday, December 10, 2017

These Nights is the latest effort from New Jersey’s Steve Burks.  The EP, which was released October 6th, is his first since 2015’s Where I Belong.  Since his last release, Burks has clearly been polishing his songwriting and has really found his sound on this release.  The record itself also sounds polished, having recorded the EP at North End Recording in Passaic, NJ.  In addition to a change in studio, Burks found a group of producers that really knew what he was going for with Sammy Kay, Brian Rothenbeck and Ed Elduka.

Burks’ influences truly shine through on this release, without drowning out his original sound. On this EP I heard a lot of Bob Dylan, Lucero, Gaslight Anthem and some late Replacements/solo Paul Westerberg.  This record gives the listener a look in at Burks’ record collection, and he manages to utilize these influences to give a familiar sound to his fans and a platform to perform his songs of loss.  This EP is emotionally heavy and the listener can tell Burks put all he had into these five songs.

My first listen, I immediately noticed the change in production.  These Nights is professional-sounding as all hell.  I also noticed a change in songwriting.  2015’s Where I Belong is a truly determined and hopeful EP.  Burks himself sums up that release, stating:

“This record was written entirely in hotel rooms, backseats of cars, airport bars, and every truck stop the Garden State Parkway and Turnpike has to offer.  I've always called New Jersey home, but a day doesn't go by where I don't think about grabbing my guitar, filling up the tank, putting Bob Dylan on the stereo and just leaving; driving until the lines on the road are as permanent a fixture as the tattooed lines on my skin.  Having no desire to stop until I've found myself, found a place I can call home, whether it be California, Tennessee, New Orleans, Texas.  Thinking about the past with each state line I cross; the good times, the bad, the broken hearts, the tears, the last calls, my family, my friends; and how I traded it all for the open road and the stars above.  Praying these 4 wheels, and heavy heart lead me to the dream continuously playing in my mind of finding Where I Belong.”

When I asked Burks if he had any words about These Nights, he was less willing to explain, and the music truly does do all of the talking.  He told me “...this album is extremely personal to me, like songs that have been brewing for like 13 years but could never actually put the thoughts into words.  In a weird way, this album was some sort of strange closure for me.”

The songs tell the listener directly what Burks has been feeling.  This release is beautifully personal, and I am sure it took a lot out of him to write these songs and share them.  The hardest part of the creative process is sharing, yet Burks seems to have done that with ease.

Thanks, Steve.

No Such Animals Release Show (Recap)

By Deaglan Howlett | Posted Monday, November 20, 2017

On September 23rd, the Asbury Park Brewery held No Such Animals release show, with help from Aftermath Collective.  The lineup included local favorites Have a Good Season, Freehold’s Good Luck Spaceman and The Vaughns from Springfield.

Good Luck Spaceman - "Center of the Earth"

Here is a clip of Good Luck Spaceman playing “Center of the Earth,” a song of their latest self-titled EP.  Spaceman brought a lot of energy and a lot of gear, including a TV set that played throughout their performance.  The combination of effects, guitars and volume made for a spacey performance, reminiscent of Sonic Youth.

For fans of The Strokes, The Pixies, Pavement

Have a Good Season - "Joseph"

Have a Good Season kicked off the night with their nostalgic 90’s emo sound.  This was their second show of the weekend and they made sure to switch up their setlist for the fans that were going to be attending both in a row.  Since two of the members are in school their local shows start to slow down once the school year starts.  Seeing them is always a treat and this night was no exception.  Here is a clip of the title track “Joseph” off of their 2015 EP.

For fans of Modest Mouse, American Football, Dinosaur Jr.

No Such Animals - "Suffer"

No Such Animals were the stars of the night.  Performing as a three-piece, they really blew me away. I  had never heard of them before, but they truly gained a fan.  I talked to the guys and I am looking forward to reviewing their latest EP “Create/TV.”  This is one of their newest tracks titled “Suffer.”

For fans of The Blood Brothers, Jimmy Eat World, Manchester Orchestra

The Vaughns

The Vaughns closed the night with an acoustic set.  They were the perfect ending for a night of loud rock and roll.  Usually a loud four-piece, The Vaughns still blew everyone away without a drummer with their sheer talent in songwriting.  It was tough to get up front for them, but here is a clip of a new song.

For fans of Paramore, Pinegrove, Hey Anna

Jersey City/NYC Indie Pop Singer Giselle Releases Mixtape, "not ready to grow up"

PRESS RELEASE

Jersey City/NYC indie pop singer Giselle’s mixtape, not ready to grow up, was recently released on November 17th.  The 9-song mixtape offers a raw, aggressive take on traditional pop music in a tug-of-war between beauty and darkness.  Giselle is perhaps most notable for singing the 2015 viral hit “diarreah song” featured on FX, which collectively garnered nearly 500,000 views on YouTube.  Giselle’s not ready to grow up signifies the pop singer’s evolution with music that is honest and vulnerable, highlighting her dynamic vocal range and taking us on a rollercoaster from youthful innocence to the harsh reality of growing up in today’s society.  Every song on the mixtape will be accompanied by a music video, all of which have been directed by women—offering a change of pace in a world in which women are often underrepresented.

Listen to the mixtape in its entirety here.

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Contact: 
Meghan Ianiro
Press Manager

Official Website | www.Giselle.us
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Hear Giselle on "I Love You, Daddy" Trailer | HERE