By Lazlo
originally published: 10/31/2022
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 releases by Commons 2, Pat Veil, Who On Earth, aesha, Hodera, and Suit of Lights.
Commons 2 - "Drop Dead from the Respite". Commons 2 have come a long way in a little over 2 years. Their new EP starts off with a harmony drenched rocker, "In The Water" that may make the Beach Boys envious. It is followed by another upbeat indie rocker in "Something Else", and a chill mid-tempo indie tune called "Until". Closing out the EP is an indie rocker, "Sparkle", that evoked in me remembrances of some of my favorite 90's modern rockers.
In short, "Drop Dead from the Respite" is superb!
Pat Veil - "No Longer Human. If you've seen Pat Veil perform live you may question if he ever was human.
I kid... mostly...
"No Longer Human" has some very catchy, musically fun songs, but if you are one who pays close attention to the lyrics you'll hear that the peppy songs mask some darker lyrics. It is actually kind of what I love about this album. I've listened to it both as a fun rock album, and as a deeper poetic piece and it really works well both ways.
Who On Earth - "Blame". "We are a band that is determined to be the answer to the question "Who on earth will bring back hard rock music with hooks, groove, melody, and meaning?"" - Who On Earth
I don't know if "hard rock music with hooks, groove, melody, and meaning" ever went away, though it may not be as popular as it once was. My hope is bands like Who On Earth can be among the pantheon of bands to usher in a new popularity of hard rock.
Or to put it more simply, Who On Earth rock!
aesha - "BLIND WIND / THE EVERGREEN TREE" [singles]. The artist formerly know as Beige Monk, currently know as aesha, releases 2 new songs, that are both wonderful acoustic indie experimental pop! "Blind Wind" clocks in at 12 minutes and 11 seconds, but doesn't feel like a long song. Quite a feat!
Hodera - "Waiting" [single]. Dear Hodera, it is nice to have you back with "Waiting", the first single from your forthcoming album, "Dear Friend". The song feels fresh and new, and yet like an old friend.
Unfortunately, we will have to wait until 2023 for the full album to be released.
Suit of Lights - "The Empty Vault". Joe Darone's Suit of Lights has always been a fascinating indie rock project that has layers if orchestral sounds. Their 2 latest songs, released under the title of the A side, "The Empty Vault", continue to showcase their skill in crafting memorable orchestral rock.
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 part of BlowUpRadio.com's New & Notable, please send downloads or contact Lazlo at Lazlo-at-BlowUpRadio-dot-com
EVENT PREVIEWS
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.
MPAC presents Glen Burtnik's Summer of Love Concert on August 20th
(MORRISTOWN, NJ) -- Relive the memories, share the spirit and celebrate the songs of the Woodstock Generation when Glen Burtnik's Summer of Love concert comes to Mayo Performing Arts Center (MPAC) on Thursday, August 20, 2026 at 8:00pm.
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