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
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.
Harmonium Choral Society to have France Tour Send-Off Concert on June 24th
(MADISON, NJ) -- Come hear the joyful and varied repertoire 42 singers from Harmonium Choral Society will take on tour to France on Wednesday, June 24, 2026 at Grace Church (4 Madison Ave) in Madison. Music ranges from Bruckner to Billings and Bernstein, Rosephanye Powell, Elizabeth Alexander, Lucy Cook, Mark Miller and more! The concert is free; donations at the door are welcome. The church is accessible, air-conditioned, and has ample parking. Showtime is 7:00pm.
Lizzie Rose Music Room presents Eric Johanson on Thursday
(TUCKERTON, NJ) -- The Lizzie Rose Music Room presents New Orleans–based Eric Johanson on Thursday, June 25, 2026. He blends sharp songwriting with a deep connection to the guitar, creating music that's dynamic, soulful, and rooted in a mix of rock, blues, and modern influences. Doors are at 7:00pm, showtime is 7:30pm.
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.
Starland Ballroom presents The Cab
(SAYREVILLE, NJ) -- Starland Ballroom presents The Cab on Friday, June 26, 2026 at 7:30pm. Paradise Fears and CARR will open the night.
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.
FEATURED EVENTS
