Ska-Punk Trio Joker's Republic releases new album "The Hand You've Been Dealt" via Punkerton Records

(ESSEX COUNTY, NJ) -- New Jersey ska-punk power trio Joker's Republic have released their new album, The Hand You’ve Been Dealt, out now via Punkerton Records. Produced by Roger Lima (Less Than Jake / Rehasher) and mixed/mastered by Grammy-nominated engineer Eric Taft, the record delivers a high-energy blend of ska, punk, and melodic grit across twelve tracks that tackle loss, politics, mental health, and identity — all with the band's trademark humor and heart.

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Rhonette Smith to release "Loss"

New Jersey heavy rock artist Rhonette Smith will release her newest single, "Loss," on October 30, 2025 to coincide with Día de los Muertos, in honor of her Mexican heritage. Though she only began celebrating the holiday as an adult, the track is a powerful anthem that explores her personal relationship with grief. The song is available for pre-save now.

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Top Five Finalists of the 14th Annual Sarah Vaughan International Jazz Vocal Competition Have Been Announced

(NEWARK, NJ) -- New Jersey Performing Arts Center (NJPAC) has announced the top five finalists of the 14th annual Sarah Vaughan International Jazz Vocal Competition. Pulled from almost 200 entrants from 27 different countries, these gifted young singers represent the next generation of great jazz vocalists. The top five finalists are: Diamond Franklin (Philadelphia, PA), Candace Jones (Hollywood, FL), Katie Kortum (New York City), Julia Moscardini (Buenos Aires, Argentina), and Emma Smith (London, England).

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World Cafe's Sense of Place: Montreal series explores the Canadian city's rich musical present and celebrated past

(PHILADELPHIA, PA) -- From Montreal's DIY, Indie Rock and Jazz scenes to acclaimed songwriters and producers, World Cafe's Sense of Place: Montreal series explores the Canadian city's rich musical present and celebrated past. Produced by WXPN and distributed by NPR, the nationally syndicated radio show airs on over 300 stations across the U.S. and streams online at NPR Music and XPN.org.

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: "Pumpkin Man" by Greg Amici

The Makin Waves Song of the Week is "Pumpkin Man," the opening track of Jersey singer-songwriter Greg Amici's new album "Tragicomic."

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MORE NEWS

Makin Waves with Don McLean: Starry Stories

Acclaimed singer-songwriter Don McLean will bring his tour, "Starry Starry Night" – A Night of Hits and Stories, on Nov. 14 to URSB Carteret Performing Arts & Events Center.

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Blues-Rock Trio Twisted Livin' to Make Anchor Rock Club Debut

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Pop-Up Record and CD Sale this weekend to Benefit Families of Maria Niotis and Isabella Salas

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Makin Waves with The Cowsills: 'Musical Family'

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Cousin Brucie Presents The Rascals LIVE! at PNC Bank Arts Center