By Lazlo
originally published: 01/20/2025
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 The Extensions, Psychic Wars, Synaptic Ooze, James William Eccles, and Southpaw. Plus a look back at "Are We Truly Great Again?" by Laree Cisco.
On January 20th, Rock Against Hate Volumes 5 & 6 were released, each containing 30 incredible songs to help raise money for Planned Parenthood and Kids In Need of Defense. There was a webathon with live sets from 14 acts - it counter-programing to that other event going on that day (and no I don't mean Martin Luther King Jr. Day). Rock Against Hate Volume 5 benefits Planned Parenthood and Rock Against Hate Volume 6 benefit Kids In Need of Defense (KIND) More info is at http://rockagainsthate.org
The Extensions - "Gravitas". "Gravitas", The new EP by The Extensions, begins with what I feel is a gratuitous Intro of someone introducing the band at a concert with a lot of hype. At a live concert, an introduction like this can excite the audience, but on an album it feels unnecessary, especially since the 6 songs that follow it are so strong that they speak for themselves. It is funny to find that these songs were ones that didn't fit previous releases, because they not only fit together here as a cohesive release, but this might just be my favorite release from The Extensions so far.
Psychic Wars - "Takers". Psychic Wars' latest release is a three song EP, "Takers", inspired by the novel "Black Tongue Thief" by Christopher Buehlman. I am not familiar with the 2021 fantasy novel, but if it as good as this EP of psychedelic hard rock, then I should probably check it out.
Synaptic Ooze - "Canyon EP". Synaptic Ooze is Eric Pseja from 3rDegree, and "Canyon EP" consists of 2 versions of the title track. The new version is a fully fleshed out prog-rock song with lovely harmonies. The demo version from 2020 feels moodier and feels even more prog-jam-rock. Both versions are magnificent.
James William Eccles - "Canterbury". If you are familiar with the doom/stoner metal that Troll Teeth are so good at making, you may be surprised to find that bassist/songwriter James William Eccles (AKA Moe) has an acoustic side he's toying with over the last few years. The culmination is, "Canterbury", an incredible album of Folk-Americana with hints of doom & stoner motifs. Ben Dallackesia & Kyle Applebaum from Troll Teeth also appear on the album to add some drums and additional guitars to the album. Don't let this one slip past you, it's a keeper!
Southpaw - "Tumbleweeds". I am not a big fan of modern country, but Southpaw is an anomaly. They are definitely modern country, but there is also a pinch of a classic country sound in there. There is also no denying the beauty of the harmonies on their new song, "Tumbleweeds", and the infectiousness of it.
Not New, But Memorable Corner
8 years ago today Rock Against Hate Volume 1 was released (and is still available at https://rockagainsthate.org), benefiting Planned Parenthood and The Trevor Project.
In May of 2018 Rock Against Hate Volume 2 was released (also benefiting Planned Parenthood and The Trevor Project). It contained what I think is a very fitting song for today, Laree Cisco's "Are We Truly Great Again?" it is said that here we are almost 7 years after this song originally came out, and this song seems new again.
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
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.
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.
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.Â
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
