By Bob Makin
originally published: 06/26/2026
The Makin Waves Song of the Week is “Western Shores,” the first single from “If the World Is Ending,” the November-bound album by Asbury Park singer-songwriter Renee Maskin. PHOTO BY JOHN DECKER
In November, Multiple Makin Waves Award-winning Asbury Park singer-songwriter Renee Maskin will release her latest solo album, "If the World Is Ending."
The LP’s first single, “Western Shores,” is the Makin Waves Song of the Week.
As the Makin Waves Song of the Week, “Western Shores“ also can be heard between 6 and 8 p.m. on June 26 on “Radio Jersey” at ThePenguinRocks.com. If you miss it, you can tune in any time in the archives at The Penguin, Mixcloud and RadioJersey.
Written early one dark, sleepless morning over cups of coffee, Renee was playing around with the main riff and chords, when her partner, acclaimed photographer-filmmaker John Decker, walked in and heard the music-in-progress. He offered up the words "Western Promises.”
Renee said, “The song formed quickly afterward. Set in the atmosphere of a hot, mirage-laden desert, ‘Western Shores’ is about the false promise of The American West, as well as false promises in general.”
Recorded at Yung Bull Studios in Brick, Renee played guitars and mellotron and co-produced with Rudy Meier of Yawn Mower, Tide Bends, and Bristler. Randy played drums and synths and is recording, mixing and playing on the entire album. Joining them on “Western Shores” and much of the LP is Tony Aichele, formerly of Renee’s old band, Lowlight, and now a Nashville-based utility player for country music star Morgan Wallen. Tony plays pedal steel and electric guitar.
“Western Shores” swells with stringed instruments, expansive keyboards, and catchy melodies, more of which can be expected on singles to come.
You can hear “Western Shores” live when Renee plays June 29 at Committed Pig, Manasquan; July 12, WDVR in-studio performance; July 19, Edenville, Warwick, NY; July 23, Middletown Arts, Middletown; Aug. 1, Asbury Park Brewery; Aug. 4, Belmar Arts; Aug. 21, Toms River Art Council Gallery, and Aug. 28, Brickette Lounge, West Chester, PA.
With her trio, The Wilder Tide, featuring drummer Eric Pierce and bassist Chris Dubrow, Renee also will play July 16, Transparent Clinch Gallery, Asbury Park, and Aug. 15, Baronet Rooftop, Asbury Park. The latter gig is a triple release party for The Wilder Tide’s debut EP, The Expendables’ latest LP, and Cussing’s EP follow-up to their 2024 debut LP, “Girl Exploded.”
In the meantime, enjoy “Western Shores” on Apple Music and Spotify.
Bob Makin has produced Makin Waves since 1988. Follow Makin Waves on Facebook and Instagram 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
The Newton Theatre presents Marty Stuart and His Fabulous Superlatives on August 12th
(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
(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.
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