By Lazlo
originally published: 09/08/2025
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 Side Project Skip, Sam Tunkel, Jon Caspi & The First Gun, and Joseph Alton Miller. Plus a look back at "Someday" by 383 Stroker.
Side Project Skip - "The Friday Night Detour". Side Project Skip is Chris Dickscheid,most recently from the band The Mediocre Friends. Those said friends are all over his new superb EP, "The Friday Night Detour". The first two songs draw you in with some peppy, pop-Americana. That is followed by a indie-power-pop-rock number, and closed out by what reminded me of an acoustic song that could have come from one of the big Seattle grunge bands of the 90's. It's all amazing and worthy of your time. Check it out!
Sam Tunkel - "Out There". To know from reading the liner notes to Sam Tunkel's debut album, "Out There", that these songs were all written years ago, when he was first learning how to be a songwriter and musician, is kind of astounding. The seven original songs on the album do not sound like someone learning to be a songwriter. These are beautiful, powerful songs.
Sam Tunkel himself describes, "The songs and themes on this album are rooted in child-like dreams of escape, isolation, and a yearning to break free and be one’s true self, and chase that indescribable thing that will fulfill your soul, that you just know is out there somewhere."
Jon Caspi & The First Gun - "New Record". What can I say about Jon Caspi & The First Gun's new single, "New Record"?
Well, here's what they said, "Did you hear the New Record? It's to announce our upcoming record"
So is it a song, or is it a jingle/ad for their new record? The jury may be out.
But is it an earworm? Hell yes!
And does it have harmonies that to me evoke The Byrds? Hell yes, again!
And do I like it? Hell yes! (so it is probably not a jingle, since I hate most jingles)
Joseph Alton Miller - "Teeth in the Silence: Live at The Barron Arts Center (Extended Version)". I love a good live album, one where you can close your eyes and listen and feel transported to the show.
"Teeth in the Silence: Live at The Barron Arts Center (Extended Version)" from Joseph Alton Miller is such an album. Recorded at the Barron Arts Center in Woodbridge, this is an intimate solo performance. Amazingly the recording captures the warmth and energy of the room, something often lost in live recordings. I suspect this warmth sounds even better on the vinyl release than the digital version I listened to.
Not New, But Memorable Corner
383 Stroker - "Someday", Many of you know Dennis King as Sonofdov, or his current project with Melissa Anthony, Tiny Cities, but back in the early 2000's, he fronted the rock band 383 Stroker, and put out catchy power-pop like, "Someday".
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
