By Lazlo
originally published: 06/30/2025
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 Mark Parker, Average Blonde, Cold Weather Company, Dana Why, The Grip Weeds, and Todd Bailey. Plus a look back at "How Dare You Call Yourself Justice" by Ferocious Designs.
Mark Parker - "A Little Bit More". "A Little Bit More" is not only the name of the new EP from Mark Parker, but also could describe it. I've been a fan of Mark Parker's music for a long time now, but there truly something a little more about this EP than his previous releases, and it is not just the edition of a Roland T-8 beat machine, though it is possible that was the catalyst for the new creative pathways that this EP takes from previous releases. Highly recommended!
Average Blonde - "Average Blonde". Average Blonde (the artist formerly known as Joey Biondi) has put out their self-titled debut, and it is full of stunning synth-alt-dream-pop.
Cold Weather Company - "In Time". There is a real irony in Cold Weather Company releasing an album during a very hot late June. However, "In Time" will chill you out with their unique blend of alternative and folk rock, with a haunting falsetto.
Dana Why - "The Cracked Hand". Dana Why is a master of harmonious indie-pop. If that is your vibe then you need to check his new album, "The Cracked Hand", now!
The Grip Weeds - "Soul Bender". It is incredible to see a local band that formed back in the late 1980's still at it. Even more incredible is that The Grip Weeds latest album, "Soul Bender", is as good as anything else they've put out, maybe even their best. The album hits you with power-pop, but there is also mid-tempo balladry, and psychedelic-garage rock.
Todd Bailey - "Cover Band Town". A few weeks back in this column I talked about Todd Bailey's song, "Cover Band Town". Now a full album of the same name is out. His singer-songwriter style remains mid-tempo throughout, which makes it a perfect album to relax to in my opinion.
Not New, But Memorable Corner
Ferocious Designs - "How Dare You Call Yourself Justice". Ferocious Designs' "How Dare You Call Yourself Justice" is less than a year old, but given how 6 Supreme Court Justices continue to act, it feels appropriate to remind people of. 'Nuff said.
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 (and bridged on BlueSky)
EVENT PREVIEWS
The The Band Band presents The Last Walz Celebration 50th Anniversary 2026 Tour at The Newton Theatre
(NEWTON, NJ) -- The The Band Band presents The Last Walz Celebration 50th Anniversary 2026 Tour at The Newton Theatre on Saturday, June 27, 2026. Doors are at 7:00pm; showtime is 8:00pm.
Brian Ostering presents The Elvis Spectacular at Middletown Arts Center on June 27th
(MIDDLETOWN, NJ) -- Jersey Shore musician Brian Ostering from The Wag is stepping out of his comfort zone with The Elvis Spectacular - "The Early Years" Concert on Saturday, June 27, 2026 at the Middletown Arts Center. This is the first time he has performed an Elvis show and it's a tribute to his father who helped pass down his passion for Elvis to Brian. I reached out to Brian to learn more about the show.
Asbury Underground returns June 27th as part of North to Shore Festival
(ASBURY PARK, NJ) -- Asbury Underground returns on June 27, 2026 as part of the North to Shore Festival and there's a terrific lineup of artists again. Performances take place at venues throughout Asbury Park.
Hard Rock Live at Etess Arena presents James Taylor and His All-Star Band on Saturday
(ATLANTIC CITY, NJ) -- Hard Rock Live at Etess Arena presents James Taylor and His All-Star Band on Saturday, June 27, 2026 at 7:30pm. This intimate concert promises an evening of soulful vocals, masterful guitar, and a legendary lineup of musicians bringing each song to life.
Gateway Playhouse to produce "Concert For A Cure" Fundraiser on June 28th
(SOMERS POINT, NJ) -- Gateway Playhouse is producing Concert for a Cure, a three-part show highlighting three different musical acts on June 28, 2026, as a special fundraising event for three different cancer organizations: the American Cancer Society (ACS), Gilda's Club of Linwood, and Wigs & Wishes by Martino Cartier of Sewell. The event will feature three original musical acts: Tide ll Moon, a Philadelphia- based indie rock band formed by Drexel University film students; Steven Lemon, a South Jersey indie pop/rock/folk artist with a songwriting career that spans two decades; and Rachel Burghen, a dynamic South Jersey crossover artist known for her soaring pop sound, accompanied by Brian Conover on piano.
Brandon Tomasello to open Ocean City Pops Season with One-Man Rat Pack Spectacular on June 28th
(OCEAN CITY, NJ) -- Acclaimed vocalist and entertainer Brandon Tomasello will open the 2026 Ocean City Pops season with his highly anticipated "One-Man Rat Pack" concert on Sunday, June 28, at the historic Ocean City Music Pier. The Rat Pack will come to life musically on stage as local favorite Tomasello presents the timeless and unmistakable sounds of this remarkable musical era. Showtime is 7:30pm.
The Vogel presents Billy Bragg with special guest Sweet Petunia on Sunday
(RED BANK, NJ) -- The Vogel presents Billy Bragg with special guest Sweet Petunia on Sunday, June 28, 2026 at 8:00pm. Limited tickets remain.
Little Steven and the Disciples of Soul to Headline Concert at ParkStage on July 3rd
(FREEHOLD, NJ) -- Little Steven and the Disciples of Soul will headline a concert at ParkStage on Friday, July 3, 2026 that fans of Jersey music will love. The lineup includes Jake Clemons Band, Joe Grushecky and the Houserockers with Gary U.S. Bonds, Low Cut Connie, and The Weeklings. Showtime is 4:00pm.
Flamingosis to Bring Bright Moments 10th Anniversary Tour to Newark Culture Club
(NEWARK, NJ) -- Flamingosis is the stage name of Aaron Velasquez, a New Jersey-based DJ, beatboxer, and electronic music producer who is coming to Newark Culture Club on Friday, July 3, 2026 at 10:00pm. A special set by one world's leading DJs/producers!
The Sandbox at Seastreak presents Badfish on July 4th
(HIGHLANDS, NJ) -- Badfish is a vibe. Badfish is a sonic house party complete with plenty of gyrating fans sipping libations and enjoying various extracurricular activities. Simply put, Badfish is feel-good music. See for yourself when Badfish performs at The Sandbox at Seastreak on Saturday, July 4, 2026 at 7:00pm. It's a great way to celebrate the holiday!
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