By Lazlo
originally published: 10/28/2024
Lazlo, founder of BlowUpRadio.com (an online radio station based around New Jersey artists), shines a light on some of the many new releases from NJ based musicians each week with this column. This week Lazlo takes a look at new releases by Kevin Liebkemann, Fear of Falling, The Mighty Alrighty, Tim and Brian, and Meteor Police. Plus a look back at "Song For A Musician" by Happy Joe.
Kevin Liebkemann - "About Time". "Kevin Liebkemann's debut album features ten original songs touching on the concept of time", says his Bandcamp page, which explains why the title is "About Time". His acoustic folk/Americana stylings are very laidback and relaxing. He's a storyteller, and one, in my opinion, worth listening to.
Fear of Falling - "King Of America". "From The White House To The Crack House", says Fear of Falling's latest single, "King Of America". By their own admission, this song, "pulls no punches", and is a "critique of power, corruption, and the twisted delusions of authority". It does so, almost deceptively, under a catchy middle of the road rock tune.
The Mighty Alrighty - "Enough Is Enough (Single Mix) (feat. Tyler Insley)". With "Enough Is Enough", The Mighty Alrighty can no longer be called, "apartment rock", as they did when the project started back in 2018. This is a full on rock song, and a politically charged one at that. "Enough is enough, It's time for action..." VOTE!
(speaking of voting, early voting is open and I urge you to vote blue! More voter info: https://www.nj.gov/state/elections/vote.shtml)
Tim and Brian - "Mmm Hmm". It has been 13 years since the last release from Tim and Brian (Tim Egan and Brian Ferrel). Most of us thought we'd never hear anything new from. Surprise! The "folktronic-rock duo" are back... with 1 new song, "Mmm Hmm", and it is a great tune!
I look forward to their next single, should we all be lucky enough to still be here, in 2037.
Meteor Police - "Hallowtide Hymns E.P.". Just in time for Halloween Meteor Police release, "Hallowtide Hymns E.P." Four post-hardcore/post-punk Halloween/Horror themed songs, including a cover of Siouxsie and the Banshees' "Halloween", should get you all set for the holiday this week.
Not New, But Memorable Corner
Happy Joe - "Song For A Musician". Happy Joe (aka Joe Canzano) is a talented singer-songwriter who generally writes fun, catchy tunes like "Smashed Up Cadillac" and "I Quit"... earworms that are also amusing. Both of those songs appear on his most recent album... which was released in January of 2010 (I'm told a new album is finally coming soon). Also on the album, is one of Joe's most heartfelt songs, "Song For A Musician", which he wrote as a tribute to Jack Stock, a musician who used to play at any and every open mic night.
That's all for this week.
Remember BlowUpRadio.com, plays these and many other New Jersey based artists on our internet radio station, so please check us out. #SupportGoodMusic - If you like any of the above artists, please purchase their music from their site. And if you would like to be part of BlowUpRadio.com's New & Notable, please send downloads or contact Lazlo at Lazlo-at-BlowUpRadio-dot-com. We're also on Mastodon at https://gardenstate.social/@BlowUpRadio (and bridged on BlueSky at https://bsky.app/profile/BlowUpRadio.gardenstate.social.ap.brid.gy)
EVENT PREVIEWS
The Newton Theatre presents Marty Stuart and His Fabulous Superlatives on August 12th
(NEWTON, NJ) -- The Newton Theatre presents Marty Stuart and His Fabulous Superlatives on Wednesday, August 12, 2026 at 7:00pm. In a career spanning over 50 years, dozens of albums, and too many shows to count, Marty Stuart charts a course through new territory at every chance possible.
BoDeans - 40th Anniversary Tour comes to Newton Theatre in August
(NEWTON, NJ) -- BoDeans are celebrating the 40th anniversary of their critically acclaimed debut album, Love & Hope & Sex & Dreams, in 2026. In honor of the anniversary, the band has a special tour planned which comes to The Newton Theatre on Friday, August 14, 2026 at 8:00pm.
Music Box at the Borgata presents The Marshall Tucker Band on August 14th
(ATLANTIC CITY, NJ) -- Music Box at the Borgata presents The Marshall Tucker Band on Friday, August 14, 2026 at 7:30pm.
Christone "Kingfish" Ingram to Headline 2026 Morristown Jazz & Blues Festival
(MORRISTOWN, NJ) -- Christone "Kingfish" Ingram has been announced as the headliner for the 2026 Morristown Jazz & Blues Festival. The free festival will be held on Saturday, August 15th on the Green. The music begins at noon and runs until 10:00pm. The lineup also includes James Langton New York All-Star Big Band, Richard Baratta Gotham City Latin/Jazz Septet, LaBamba and the Hubcaps, and Dylan Triplett.
The Newton Theatre presents Supernova: A Tribute to Oasis on August 15th
(NEWTON, NJ) -- Supernova: A Tribute to Oasis comes to The Newton Theatre on Saturday, August 15, 2026 at 8:00pm. They are an Oasis tribute band obsessed with recreating the raw energy, intensity and swagger of a real Oasis gig.
Rob Garrett's Neil Diamond: The Tribute comes to Atlantic City
(ATLANTIC CITY, NJ) -- The Grand at Golden Nugget Atlantic City presents Rob Garrett's Neil Diamond Tribute on Saturday, August 15, 2026 at 8:00pm. The longtime Las Vegas performer has been called "the best of the best" when it comes to tribute acts.
Showboat Resorts Garden Pier hosts RE-WIND 69' Music Festival
(ATLANTIC CITY, NJ) -- The inaugural RE-WIND 69' Music Festival at Showboat Resorts Garden Pier takes place August 14-16, 2026 - the anniversary weekend of the original Woodstock 1969 festival. This is a spectacular revival of a moment in American history when music united generations, healed communities, and sparked cultural change. For three unforgettable days, Atlantic City becomes a living time capsule, bringing the spirit of Woodstock and 1969 back to life through world-class recreations of the now legendary musical performances by a dynamic mix of New Jersey musicians along with national and international touring acts.
Widespread Panic to Play Three Nights at Hard Rock Live at Etess Arena
(ATLANTIC CITY, NJ) -- Widespread Panic is taking over Hard Rock Live at Etess Arena for three nights from August 14-16, 2026 with shows at 8:00pm each night. The popular jam band has been together over three decades. Tickets are available for each show individually or as a 3-Day Pass.
The Temptations to Bring the Motor City to the Ocean City Boardwalk on August 18th
(OCEAN CITY, NJ) -- Legendary Motown group The Temptations look to continue their celebrated touring schedule with a summer stop at America's Greatest Family Resort, Ocean City, New Jersey on Tuesday, August 18, 2026. The Rock & Roll Hall of Famers and multiple GRAMMY Award winners celebrate more than six decades of hits with their acclaimed live performances, remain one of the most enduring and influential groups in American popular music. Renowned worldwide for their signature harmonies, impeccable choreography, and an iconic catalog of timeless hits, their legacy continues to span generations.
Prudential Center presents Reggae stars Beres Hammond and Beenie Man on August 20th
(NEWARK, NJ) -- Newark will see a night of reggae's best when Beres Hammond and Beenie Man perform live at Prudential Center on Saturday, August 20, 2026 at 8:00pm. Experience the artistry of Beres Hammond, one of Jamaica's most esteemed vocalists, as he graces the stage with Marcia Griffiths and Baby Cham. It will be an exceptional evening featuring the captivating performances of reggae music, showcasing soulful melodies and heartfelt expressions.
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