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.
Rhonette Smith releases "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.
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).
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.
For more news Click here
COLUMNS
Rock On! This Week's Sound Bites... 01/15/2026
"I'm doing fantabulous today. I'm from Berlin, Maryland, it's a very small town, one street light, lots of cops and everyone knows each other," chuckled young singer-songwriter Callum who will be making the trip up from the Terrapin state for two February shows, the first of which is at Flounder Brewing in Hillsborough, NJ and the second on February 22 at John & Peter's in New Hope, PA as part of Mike Montrey's Songwriter Showcase.
MORE NEWS
BBD Rhythm & Blues Band are 'Keeping the Blues Alive'
(OLD BRIDGE, NJ) -- People Get Ready for the 'Keeping the Blues Alive' 2026 Tour, featuring the BBD Rhythm & Blues Band. They have two shows in January - Sammy D's Bar Wine & Spirits in Old Bridge on Saturday, January 24th and Lizzie Rose Music Room in Tuckerton on Friday, January 30, 2026. Additional shows run throughout February.
An Interview with Zalerno about "Mythic Romance"
The Newton Theatre presents Better Than Ezra on March 26st
Lee Brice: Acoustic with special guest Deltona at State Theatre on January 23rd
bergenPAC to put tickets on sale for Happy Together Tour
UPCOMING SHOWS
Light of Day WinterFest 2026 Preview
(ASBURY PARK, NJ) -- It's time for the annual Light of Day shows! A time when Asbury Park comes alive with music throughout the city -- everything from singer-songwriter to rock & blues to cover bands and tribute acts. It's a great time to check out new artists, see your favorites, and experience new venues. In addition to Asbury Park, there are shows at City Winery in NYC, John & Peter's in New Hope, Outpost in the Burbs, and Bob's Birthday Bash in Red Bank.
The Princeton Folk Music Society presents Crys Matthews
Brook Arts Center presents Gold Rush: The Music of Neil Young
State Theatre presents Tusk: The Classic Fleetwood Mac Tribute
Advertise with The Penguin Rocks for $50-$100 per month, click here for info
The Penguin Rocks
© 2026 by Wine Time Media, LLC
PO Box 811, Belmar, NJ 07719
[email protected]
Presented by New Jersey Stage
