By Bob Makin
originally published: 11/22/2024
The Makin Waves Song of the Week is "Quasimodo's Love Note," the debut single of the new all-Star band Never the Name. PHOTO BY CARO ROSARIO
Never The Name is a new band started by sought-after bassist Will Blakey.
Their debut single, “Quasimodo’s Love Note,” is the Makin Waves Song of the Week.
As the Makin Waves Song of the Week, “Quasimodo’s Love Note” also can be heard between 6 and 8 p.m. on Nov. 22 on “Radio Jersey” at ThePenguinRocks.com. If you miss it, you can tune in any time in the archives at The Penguin and Mixcloud.
Never The Name started as an attempt to put out a solo album that Will had long wanted to do but quickly turned into a band because he didn’t want to put the focus on himself, but rather once again be a part of a band.
As the bass player for multiple indie New Jersey bands, he met all the musicians who make up Never The Name. His work with Bryan Hansen Band introduced him to drummer Joshua Van Ness. The Extensions turned him onto keyboardist Lisa LoVell and multi-instrumentalist Matt Cook, and The Heard had him cross paths with guitarist Tom Briant.
“‘Quasimido’s Love Note’ was inspired by frustrations I experienced, as well as people around me experienced in the work place with regard to the fake and ‘shiny people,’ who lie, cheat and backstab, often hiding behind their high position and/or attractive appearance in order to get away with their actions and hide their mistakes, while pointing out the mistakes of others,” Will explained.
The band’s forthcoming album, “Millennial Boomer Consumer,” is expected to drop in the spring and was recorded at Will’s home studio, which he refers to as 907 Studios.
Never The Name will release two more singles from the album. The band plans to accompany each with a music video, as well as a few promotional surprises.
Keep an eye for the announcement of the band’s live debut on Instagram at @never_the_name and TikTok @neverthename.
Bob Makin has produced Makin Waves since 1988. Follow Makin Waves on Facebook and contact Bob at [email protected].
About the author:
New Jersey Stage is proud to be the home of Bob Makin's Makin Waves column since 2017. His Song of the Week column comes out every Friday. He also writes an Album of the Month and Interview of the Month as well.
EVENT PREVIEWS
Levoy Theatre presents Paul Thorn on June 18th
(MILLVILLE, NJ) -- The Levoy Theatre presents Paul Thorn on Thursday, June 18, 2026 at 7:30pm. When it comes to songwriting, less is more, and simplicity is strength. Just ask Paul Thorn, who’s spent three decades turning soulful grooves and small syllables into songs that pack a big wallop.
Erin Harpe & Countryman Jim Bring Award-Nominated Country Blues to Lizzie Rose Music Room on June 18th
(TUCKERTON, NJ) -- Award-nominated country blues duo Erin Harpe & Countryman Jim will bring their captivating blend of traditional country blues, folk, and Americana to the Lizzie Rose Music Room on Thursday, June 18, 2026 at 7:30pm.
The Black Crowes and Whiskey Myers to Perform at Prudential Center
(NEWARK, NJ) -- Genre-defying rock legends The Black Crowes bring their massive co-headlining Southern Hospitality Tour with modern rock's boundary-pushing powerhouse Whiskey Myers to Prudential Center in Newark on Saturday, June 20, 2026 at 8:00pm.
Carteret PAC presents Los Lobos and Los Lonely Boys on June 20th
(CARTERET, NJ) -- Los Lobos and Los Lonely Boys bring The Brotherhood Tour to Carteret Performing Arts & Events Center on Saturday, June 20, 2026 at 8:00pm. Tickets range from $58-$108.
The North Jersey Blues Society presents "Blues & Brews" featuring BBD Rhythm & Blues Band on June 21st
(MONTCLAIR, NJ) -- The North Jersey Blues Society presents "Blues & Brews" featuring BBD Rhythm & Blues Band at the Montclair Brewery on Sunday, June 21, 2026. The event runs from 5:30pm to 7:30pm.
Going Acoustic at Quig's to Mark 4 Years with Featured Sets from Emily Drinker and Gina LC on June 22nd
(PHILADELPHIA, PA) -- Four years in, Going Acoustic at Quig's is still doing what it does best: creating a welcoming space where artists feel comfortable to take risks, and audiences are lucky enough to hear it unfold. On Monday, June 22, 2026 the beloved open mic series returns to Quig's Pub for its 4th Anniversary Show, with featured performances from Emily Drinker and Gina LC, alongside the series' signature blend of emerging voices and open mic performers.
Cape May Point Arts and Science Center presents Grammy-Nominated Blues artist Guy Davis on June 24th
(CAPE MAY POINT, NJ) -- On Wednesday, June 24, 2026, musician, storyteller and two-time Grammy Nominee for Best Traditional Blues, Guy Davis, will perform at The Cape May Point Arts and Science Center.
American Theater Group and Union Arts Center present Katerina McCrimmon: Naked Concert on June 26th
(UNION, NJ) -- American Theater Group (ATG), in partnership with the Union Arts Center, will present Katerina McCrimmon's acclaimed solo concert, Naked, which has played to sold-out audiences across the country, including at Joe's Pub and Lincoln Center. Directed by Henry Gainza, it will come to the DMK Black Box Theater at the Union Arts Center for one performance only, on Fri.day, June 26, 2026 at 7:00pm.
MPAC presents Straight No Chaser on June 26th
(MORRISTOWN, NJ) -- A cappella favorite Straight No Chaser brings its summer-themed Beach Bash to Mayo Performing Arts Center (MPAC) on Friday, June 26, 2026 at 8:00pm. Tickets range from $57-$114 (All fees included).
Asbury Lanes presents Matthew Curry and Erik Mason Band on June 26th
(ASBURY PARK, NJ) -- Acclaimed singer-songwriter Matthew Curry sets off on his 2026 Spring/Summer "One For The Ride" Tour (named for his new Ruf Records album release) with a performance at Asbury Lanes on Friday, June 26, 2026. Erik Mason Band will open the night. Showtime is 8:00pm.
FEATURED EVENTS
