Spider Rockets brought its tight, punk-infused power rock to The Brighton Bar in Long Branch, NJ on Saturday, February 3rd, 2018, as part of a showcase of rock and metal acts hosted by New Jersey’s own champion of the scene, Don Jamieson of That Metal Show fame.
Spider Rockets is a classic four-piece line-up that blasted through its set with strong chops and dynamic stage presence. The group’s aggressive brand of power rock is fronted by Helena Cos, whose roaring vocals are full of passion and emotion. Her color palette is provided by guitarist Johnny Nap, bassist Jimmy Mui and drummer Dale Whitaker.
One can tell a lot about a player’s equipment of choice, and Nap’s rig is pure rock: a Gibson Les Paul through a Marshall half-stack. It screamed and his playing had a biting tone that was the gritty foil for Cos’ melodic vocals. Mui and Whitaker are perfect anchors for Cos and Nap: Mui being content to hang to his side of the stage and let Cos and Nap take the spotlight while he laid down thundering bass lines and provided backing vocals. Whitaker is an exceptional rock and metal drummer who kept it solid, choosing to cut loose when the songs called for it. There isn’t a weak player in Spider Rockets; all are essential to the sound and attitude that the band has. It’s obvious that the band had put a lot of work into its music and its set - Spider Rockets is polished and pro.
Spider Rockets: Helena Cos (vocals), Johnny Nap (guitar), Jimmy Mui (bass), Dale Whitaker (drums).
Text & photos by Bob Beucler. Bob is a lifelong a musician and fan of rock photography who lives in central New Jersey. You can see more of his photography at www.BobBeucler.com.
originally published: 2018-02-09 11:42:56
Inside The 8th Morristown Jazz & Blues Festival
(MORRISTOWN, NJ) -- Morristown Mayor Tim Dougherty has announced the line-up for the eighth Morristown Jazz & Blues Festival to be held on the Green on Saturday, August 18, from noon until 10:00pm. The annual free concert will feature performances by Rhythm in Blue, Bria Skonberg, LaBamba and the Hubcaps, Bernard Allison Group, and Davy Knowles.
Melanie & Friends: Back to Bleecker
(NEW YORK, NY) -- Melanie began performing in Monmouth County coffeehouses, became a fixture in Greenwich Village, and a legend at Woodstock. Now based in Nashville, she will return to the Village on August 10th when (le) Poisson Rouge Presents Melanie & Friends: Back to Bleecker. Doors open at 6:30pm; showtime is 7:30pm; and tickets are $35/$40.
Celebrate A Night On Broadway with Doreen Taylor
(SEWELL, NJ) -- Celebrate A Night on Broadway with Billboard Top 100 singer/songwriter Doreen Taylor as she hosts her largest bash to date at Proof Productions in Sewell on Wednesday, July 25th from 7:30pm to 11:00pm. Admission is free with complimentary food by gourmet chef Geoff Johnson, complimentary beer and wine. There will be a DJ, dancing, special celebrity guests, giveaways and a live performance by Taylor.
The Hackensack Music Festival To Take Place At HACPAC On May 26
(HACKENSACK, NJ) -- The Hackensack Performing Arts Center will present The Hackensack Music Festival on Saturday, May 26 from 7:00pm to 10:00pm. Artists scheduled to perform include Duke Jones, Armando son Jimenez and his band “Sabor”, Priya DeBerry, Daneik Ashley, SOAR, and Cedrina Shari. Admission is $20.
