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 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.

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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: "Love & Affection" by Joe Boris

Joe Boris, the guitarist-songwriter of the celebrated Jersey jam band One-Eyed Jack, has released an anthem of global love and community strength.

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MORE NEWS

Starland Ballroom presents Cheap Trick on March 20th

(SAYREVILLE, NJ) -- Starland Ballroom presents Rock and Roll Hall of Famers Cheap Trick on Friday, March 20, 2026 at 8:00pm. Currently gearing up for their 50th anniversary year, Cheap Trick remain an indisputable, indispensable rock 'n' roll institution, beloved everywhere for their instantly identifiable, hugely influential union of mischievous wit and maximum melodies, powerhouse pop hooks and razor-sharp riffs. James Hatem will open the night.

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Louder Than You Think: A Lo-Fi History of Gary Young & Pavement Soundtrack Released

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Stangl Stage presents BStreetBand on Valentine's Day

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The Black Crowes and Whiskey Myers to Perform at Prudential Center

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McCarter Theatre presents José James with Special Guest Lizz Wright in a 50th Anniversary Tribute to Marvin Gaye's "I Want You" album