New Jersey Stage logo
New Jersey Stage Menu



 

"The Great Albums Podcast" Returns June 1st with New Monthly Episodes and Patreon Exclusives

Published by New Jersey Stage

originally published: 05/02/2026

Brian Erickson (left) and Bill Lambusta

(ASBURY PARK, NJ) -- The Great Albums Podcast, a music commentary show that averaged 20,000 Week 1 downloads per episode and amassed over 6 million total downloads during its initial run from 2015-2019, will return on June 1 with its first regular episode in over seven years. New episodes will follow on the first of every month.

Hosted by indie rock musicians and original co-hosts Bill Lambusta and Brian Erickson, the revived show will continue to deep-dive into some of the best albums of all time with track-by-track reviews. Each month’s featured album will be announced on social media one week before its episode goes live, giving listeners a chance to familiarize or refamiliarize themselves with it. Lambusta and Erickson will also introduce new segments such as album-centric awards ceremonies and reactions to contemporaneous reviews from prominent critics.

The Great Albums Podcast has also launched its own Patreon page. Subscribers will receive access to exclusive content such as bonus episodes, livestreams, video versions of many episodes, and the podcast’s extensive back catalog, which will be available exclusively on Patreon beginning June 1, 2026.

The podcast will also feature guest contributions from musicians, podcasters, journalists, and other music lovers. Currently confirmed guests include Jim Hanke (Host & Creator, Vinyl Emergency) and Rich Tupica (Author, “There Was a Light: The Cosmic History of Chris Bell and the Rise of Big Star”).

“Just like the mighty vinyl record – though I personally prefer the humble CD – The Great Albums Podcast is back!” said Lambusta. “While the show went away, Brian and I never stopped talking about our favorite albums, and we’re still just as passionate about the format as ever. It’ll be good to bring our listeners back into the conversation. We have a lot of cool things planned.”




Reach New Jersey's largest arts & entertainment audience, click here for info on how to advertise at NJ Stage



“In short, I missed the pod. It provided a regular check-in on how people thought about and engaged with albums. But it seems the format is in danger of disappearing,” said Erickson. “This is my small way to push back on that, and to celebrate what makes albums so special in the first place. I hope our audience agrees and comes along with us.”

To listen and subscribe to the podcast on your service of choice, visit: thegreatalbums.com

The Great Albums Podcast is a music commentary podcast hosted by indie rock musicians Bill Lambusta and Brian Erickson, who explore great music across rock, pop, hip-hop, and more through the lens of their preferred format: the album. The show earned a devoted following for its in-depth, track-by-track album discussions, averaging over 20,000 Week 1 downloads per episode and amassing more than 6 million total downloads during its original run from 2015-2019.

The podcast also features guest contributions from musicians, podcasters, journalists, and other dedicated music lovers. Past guests have included artists such as Adam Weiner of Low Cut Connie, Fred and Richard Fairbrass of Right Said Fred, Jody Stephens of Big Star, Savannah Pope, and Sarah Donner, as well as journalist Steven Hyden, author Dan LeRoy, comedy-musician Kyle Gordon, producer and author Jesse Cannon, syndicated DJ and podcast host Ralph Sutton, YouTuber Nando, and WXPN DJs Wendy Rollins, Dan Reed, and Mike Vasilikos.

Lambusta and Erickson are award-nominated New Jersey musicians and former bandmates who took their conversations about music from their Rider University college dorm to podcast form. Lambusta performs in We’re Ghosts Now and Fake Pockets, while Erickson is a solo artist and member of The Extensions, giving both hosts the perspective of working musicians as they discuss the albums that shaped them.




Reach New Jersey's largest arts & entertainment audience, click here for info on how to advertise at NJ Stage



EVENT PREVIEWS

(NEWTON, NJ) -- The Newton Theatre presents Marty Stuart and His Fabulous Superlatives on Wednesday, August 12, 2026 at 7:00pm. In a career spanning over 50 years, dozens of albums, and too many shows to count, Marty Stuart charts a course through new territory at every chance possible.
BoDeans - 40th Anniversary Tour comes to Newton Theatre in August

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

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

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

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.
 

FEATURED EVENTS


EagleMania – The World’s Greatest Eagles Tribute Band

Wednesday, August 12, 2026 @ 8:00pm
Mayo Performing Arts Center (MPAC)
100 South Street, Morristown, NJ


Cimarron 615

Thursday, August 13, 2026 @ 7:30pm
Lizzie Rose Music Room
217 E. Main Street, Tuckerton, NJ


Niko Moon - Mayor's Summer Concert Series

Thursday, August 13, 2026 @ 7:00pm
Union County Performing Arts Center (UCPAC) - Main Stage
1601 Irving Street, Rahway, NJ


Totally 2000's Party - Y2K Night

Friday, August 14, 2026 @ 9:00pm
Carteret Performing Arts & Events Center
46 Washington Ave, Carteret, NJ


The Janis Joplin Experience starring Lisa Polizzi

Friday, August 14, 2026 @ 7:30pm
Lizzie Rose Music Room
217 E. Main Street, Tuckerton, NJ



 

Advertise with NJ Stage for $50-$100 per month, click here for info