By Lazlo
originally published: 08/01/2022
Lazlo, founder of BlowUpRadio.com (an online 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 releases by Jason Didner, Joe Billy, FEXX, Hooper, possum in my room, furiousBall, and yupanki.
Jason Didner - "Patient Portal" - The only way to hear this new tune from Jason Didner (co-written with his wife Amy), is by signing up for Jason Didner's e-mail list. This is a win-win, because you should already be on his e-mail list because he makes witty, catchy tunes about relatable situations, "Patient Portal" being about the trials & tribulations of trying to get into a doctor's online patient site just so they can see the doctor. If you can't relate to this, consider yourself lucky.
Joe Billy - 2AM - Wow! Been a fan of Joe Billy's music for a while now and watched how it has grown over the years, but if this first offering from his upcoming new album is any indication, this album is going to be EPIC!
FEXX - "An Introduction To..." - This is quite the introduction EP! 5 songs traversing various styles of rock/emo/pop-punk. Can't wait to hear how FEXX follows this debut up.
Hooper - "Dallas" [single] - The debut single from this new Asbury Park band combines 70's country rock with 90's alt-country into a catchy song that stuck with me days after first hearing it.
possum in my room - "gleamin b/w iowa" [singles] - Two new singles from Ted O's bedroom folk/ambient shoegaze project, & each showcase why he is an absolute master at what he does (with some additional engineering & mixing help on these tracks from Dan T)
furiousBall - "A Fossil In Her Shadow" [single] - "A Fossil In Her Shadow" is not only an infectious mid-tempo alternative tune, but as the first single from furiousBall's forthcoming album, "Good, No Good" (out on 8/26), it makes me want to hear the rest of the album right now. Lucky for me I was sent the entire album and I can tell you that you should pre-order it now. It is incredible!
yupanki - "Echoes in the Valley" [single] - There is a cinematic quality to yupanki's debut single. There are plenty of loops in this instrumental, but there are changes and transitions that keep it from being an endless drone. In fact I found the song took me on a journey through my mind and thoughts, leaving me refreshed and invigorated. I think I'll be going back to this song next time I need to clear my head.
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 part of BlowUpRadio.com's New & Notable, please send downloads or contact Lazlo at Lazlo-at-BlowUpRadio-dot-com
EVENT PREVIEWS
French Montana to Headline Grand Opening of Dream Live Performing Arts Center
(EAST RUTHERFORD, NJ) -- American Dream will celebrate the region's opening World Cup match between Brazil and Morocco with the debut of its newest venue, the Dream Live Performing Arts Center, with a postgame concert by French Montana on June 13, 2026 at 9:00pm.
Outlaw Country Comes to the Jersey Pines at Albert Music Hall on Saturday
(WARETOWN, NJ) -- The outlaw spirit of classic Country music will ride into Albert Music Hall on Saturday, June 13, 2026, as the historic Waretown venue presents a special evening dedicated to the songs, stories, and the independent spirit of Outlaw Country.
Marc Ribler & Friends to perform Paul McCartney birthday tribute "When I'm 84" at Axelrod PAC
(DEAL, NJ) -- As a tribute to Sir Paul McCartney's upcoming 84th birthday in June, Jersey Shore musician Marc Ribler has put together an all-star lineup to perform "When I'm 84" at the Axelrod Performing Arts Center on Saturday, June 13 and Sunday, June 14, 2026.
Levoy Theatre presents Paul Thorn on June 18th
(MILLVILLE, NJ) -- The Levoy Theatre presents Paul Thorn on Thursday, June 18, 2026 at 7:30pm. When it comes to songwriting, less is more, and simplicity is strength. Just ask Paul Thorn, who’s spent three decades turning soulful grooves and small syllables into songs that pack a big wallop.
Erin Harpe & Countryman Jim Bring Award-Nominated Country Blues to Lizzie Rose Music Room on June 18th
(TUCKERTON, NJ) -- Award-nominated country blues duo Erin Harpe & Countryman Jim will bring their captivating blend of traditional country blues, folk, and Americana to the Lizzie Rose Music Room on Thursday, June 18, 2026 at 7:30pm.
The Black Crowes and Whiskey Myers to Perform at Prudential Center
(NEWARK, NJ) -- Genre-defying rock legends The Black Crowes bring their massive co-headlining Southern Hospitality Tour with modern rock's boundary-pushing powerhouse Whiskey Myers to Prudential Center in Newark on Saturday, June 20, 2026 at 8:00pm.
Carteret PAC presents Los Lobos and Los Lonely Boys on June 20th
(CARTERET, NJ) -- Los Lobos and Los Lonely Boys bring The Brotherhood Tour to Carteret Performing Arts & Events Center on Saturday, June 20, 2026 at 8:00pm. Tickets range from $58-$108.
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.
FEATURED EVENTS
