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 The Stewart Dolly, sparks fly from a kiss, Indeyevid, and Part-Time Custodian. Plus a look back at "Winter Kills" by The Whirling Dervishes.
The Stewart Dolly - "Chainlift, Deliver Us Now". There is nothing like sitting around on a bleak, somewhat cold (hey, it has thus far been an unseasonably warm winter) January day, and hearing a power pop tune like, "Mighty Rickety", the lead off track of The Stewart Dolly's new EP, "Chainlift, Deliver Us Now". The song is a summer anthem to me! In fact, all 3 songs on the EP help brighten up the short, bleak days.
sparks fly from a kiss - "Cornered and Shot". "Sparks Fly from a Kiss was an American rock band formed in New Brunswick, NJ in 2000", read their Bandcamp bio. They were a big part of the early days of BlowUpRadio.com with their indie-psych-space-rock. Their new album, "Cornered and Shot" is made up of unreleased track and outtakes recorded in 2001 & 2002, and restored and mastered in 2023. Why it took over 20 years to release these songs is beyond me, as I don't hear any filler here.
Indeyevid - "Necessary Renovations". Indeyevid return with a new lineup and EP. Rhythm Guitarist Amanda F. now also tackles vocals, and is surrounded by a new lead guitarist, bassist, and drummer. The result on "Necessary Renovations" is angry, grungy alt-punk. Fuck yeah!
Part-Time Custodian - "Vacant Valleys". Part-Time Custodian, fronted by singer-songwriter Mike Herz, is an Americana, Folk Rock, band. Their new EP, "Vacant Valleys", brought a big smile to my face. Their songs are beautiful, jangly, and exude a warmth, like hearing a story from an old friend.
Not New, But Memorable Corner
The Whirling Dervishes - "Winter Kills". As the enivitable cold weather finally descends upon on it reminds me of my favorite song from The Whirling Dervishes. They are known by many for their spirited cover of "You're A Mean One Mr. Grinch", which appeared on their early 90's EP, "Wish It Would Snow". Also on the EP is, "Winter Kills". I wonder why I would possibly think of this great song while cursing the windy, frosty day outside as I type this...
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
