Makin Waves Song of the Week: "Blessing" by Brielle Brown

The Makin Waves Song of the Week is "Blessing," the first single from Jersey Shore songstress Brielle Brown's forthcoming full-length debut album, "In Art & Soil the Same."

published on 05/02/2025

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Makin Waves with Lee Mrowicki: "The Voice of The Stone Pony"

Legendary Stone Pony DJ Lee Mrowicki has released an audio book about the early days of the fabled Asbury Park club, "Legendary: The History of The Stone Pony 1974-1991 and the People Who Made It So."

published on 04/26/2025

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: "I Know Your Number" by Arlan Feiles

The Makin Waves Song of the Week is "I Know Your Number," the second single from Jersey Shore troubadour Arlan Feiles' brand-new LP, "Diaspora."

published on 04/25/2025

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​​​​​​​Makin Waves Song of the Week: "Gibraltar" by Defecting Grey

​​​​​​​​​​​​​​Each year-end coverage of Makin Waves features "The Dirty Jersey Dozen," a list of the 12 indie Jersey music acts that made the most waves. Two bands that likely would be on the all-time Dirty Jersey list are Gigantic, a Jersey Shore trio inspired by the primal pop of The Pixies and Nirvana, and Alternative Tentacles recording act Buzzkill, also a trio from the days when New Brunswick was the state's best music scene.

published on 04/18/2025

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: "Carpool Lane" by Jake Thistle

The Makin Waves Song of the Week, "Carpool Lane," is the latest single from Jersey Shore singer-songwriter Jake Thistle.

published on 04/11/2025

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: "North Star" by Ashley McKinley

The Makin Waves Song of the Week, "North Star," is Jersey Shore-raised singer-songwriter Ashley McKinley's latest single.

published on 04/04/2025

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Makin Waves with Michael Patrick: A Clear Blue Sky

Since recently moving from his longtime residence of Central Jersey to along the Delaware River in rural Hunterdon County, where his neighbors are now cows and horses, Michael Patrick has found country living provides inspiration. Shortly after the move, he quit his day job of 15 years to perform and write music fulltime.

published on 04/03/2025

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: "Over U" by Strawberry Sore Throat

The Makin Waves Song of the Week, "Over U," is one of the 10 tracks featured on two new EPs released simultaneously by Strawberry Sore Throat, the recording side project of Makin Waves Award-winning singer-songwriter Stella Mrowicki.

published on 03/28/2025

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Makin Waves with Al Di Meola: 'Straight Out in the Open'

Al Di Meola's ongoing fascination with complex rhythmic syncopation combined with provocative lyrical melodies and sophisticated harmony has been at the heart of his music throughout a celebrated career that has spanned four decades and earned him critical accolades, three gold albums and more than six million in record sales worldwide.

published on 03/27/2025

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: "Spreading Love" by Patty C and The Pints

The Makin Waves Song of the Week, "Spreading Love," is the first single from Jersey Shore rockers Patty C and The Pints' forthcoming debut EP, "Happy Camper."

published on 03/21/2025

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Makin Waves with The NEW Bardots: 'Down to a Science'

​​​​​​​The Plainfield/North Plainfield music scene of the 1960s and '70s was prolific with acts such as Rock and Roll Hall of Famers Parliament-Funkadelic, jazz guitar great Harry Leahey, the charting garage-rock bands The Critters and The Doughboys, and the CBGB staple The Rockids. Current-day label Bongo Boy Records' roster includes The Doughboys and The Rockids, both of which have included North Plainfield-raised guitarist Gar Francis, a co-founder of Bongo Boy with longtime partner Monique Grimme.

published on 03/19/2025

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: "On the Way There" by Redbird

​​​​​​​​​​​​​​The first single from Jersey Shore roots-rock singer-songwriter Redbird's forthcoming debut album is a tribute to a dearly departed band mate.

published on 03/14/2025

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Makin Waves Alive: James Mastro & The Gold Stars/Renee Maskin, March 8th, Old Franklin Schoolhouse, Metuchen

In a sold-out show, James Mastro and the Gold Stars, plus opener Renee Maskin demonstrated why Franklin Schoolhouse is a special place that focuses on community arts. One of the first things James said to the audience of about 100 as he kicked off his charming, energetic set with his band, the Gold Stars, was, "You're lucky to have a place like this." That's saying a lot because the Hoboken legend's Guitar Bar repair shop and store curates 503 Social Club, a similar space for concerts and art exhibits.

published on 03/12/2025

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: "Something's Coming For Me" by Tom Costello and the Turnaround

The Makin Waves Song of the Week, "Something's Coming For Me," is the single from Tom Costello and the Turnaround's EP, "Coastline," which recently was reissued on vinyl.

published on 03/07/2025

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: "Heartbreak Time" by The Cynz

The Makin Waves Song of the Week, "Heartbreak Time," is the latest single from Jem Records artist The Cynz.

published on 02/28/2025

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: "Hey!" by Colossal Street Jam

The Makin Waves Song of the Week, "Hey!," is the latest single and video from Colossal Street Jam's long-awaited LP "No Way to Live."

published on 02/21/2025

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: "We're in This Together" by The New Bardots

With the first single off their new LP, "Endless Drool," The NEW Bardots deviate just a bit to bring us a message with a rock bottom line.

published on 02/14/2025

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: "Slight Return (Run That Shit Back)" by Chris Rockwell feat. Chill Smith and Izzy Miz

The Makin Waves Song of the Week, "Slight Return (Run That Shit Back)," feat. Chill Smith and Izzy Miz, is the first single and video from Chris Rockwell's forthcoming LP, "Rebel Radio 2."

published on 02/07/2025

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Makin Waves with Ocean Avenue Stompers: Bringing the Carnival Back to the Boardwalk

Both Asbury Park and New Orleans have a history of brass bands. NOLA's history is a bit better known than AP's, but at the turn of the 20th century, John Philip Sousa and his trombonist Arthur Pryor made brass bands the foundation of the storied Asbury Park music scene.

published on 02/04/2025

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Makin Waves with Tusk: Chemistry, Synergy, Intuition

Tusk has been criss-crossing the country since 2008 as the classic Fleetwood Mac tribute. The five founding members have a rich history that spans more than four decades and cultivates an intimate familiarity with each other's musical nuances that shapes their performances with precision and unspoken understanding. 

published on 02/02/2025

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: "Conquer And Divide" by The Grip Weeds

The Makin Waves Song of the Week is "Conquer and Divide" from The Grip Weeds' brand new EP, "Early Clues."

published on 01/31/2025

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: "Man of Manzanita" by Nefesh Mountain

The Makin Waves Song of the Week is "Man of Manzanita" from Nefesh Mountain's forthcoming double LP, "Beacons."

published on 01/24/2025

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Makin Waves Roundtable Discussion: LGBTQ and POC Concerns about Returning Trump Administration

​​​​​​​Eight days before Donald Trump's inauguration, East Rutherford-raised singer-songwriter-guitarist Carolyn Marosy, Asbury Park-based singer-songwriter Blaise and Asbury Park musicians and scenesters Sean Navat Balanon and Matt Daniels, who's also an activist, gathered at Georgie's Bar in Asbury Park. They participated in a roundtable discussion regarding concerns they have about Trump's return to the White House and the impact that may have on the LGBTQ community, as well as people of color.

published on 01/19/2025

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: "Hologram" by Tiny Cities

The Makin Waves Song of the Week is "Hologram" from "The Wind Can Be So Cruel" the debut EP of the new duo Tiny Cities, featuring Melissa Anthony and Dennis King

published on 01/17/2025

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Makin Waves with The Weeklings: 'Excited by the Results'

Once upon a time, Jersey rocker Glen Burtnik played Paul McCartney in the Broadway production of "Beatlemania." A tasty chunk of his career has explored Beatlemania ever since, including his current band The Weeklings, one of America's most unique celebrations of The Fab Four.

published on 01/11/2025

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: "Fever" by Lisa Bouchelle

While mixing her next album, Jersey Shore singer-songwriter Lisa Bouchelle has dropped a new video for "Fever" from her 2022 full-length debut LP "Jump In."

published on 01/10/2025

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: “Without a Fight” by Dave Vargo

The Makin Waves Song of the Week is Jersey Shore singer-songwriter Dave Vargo's "Without a Fight," which is featured in episode six of season six of Netflix's hit show "Virgin River."

published on 01/03/2025

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: "The Skin I'm In" by BLUES People

The Makin Waves Song of the Week is "The Skin I'm In" by BLUES People, who will compete in The International Blues Challenge taking place from Jan. 7 to 11 in Memphis.

published on 12/27/2024

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Makin Waves Top 10 Jersey Indie Songs

Here are the top 10 songs by New Jersey indie artists, according to Makin Waves:

published on 12/23/2024

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Makin Waves Top 10 Jersey Indie Albums

Here are the top 10 albums by New Jersey indie artists for 2024, according to Makin Waves.

published on 12/22/2024

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Makin Waves Dirty Jersey Dozen

​​​​​​​Each year, Makin Waves picks the 12 independent New Jersey bands who made the most waves. That means extensive touring in support of a new LP or EP, preferably internationally; professional quality narrative videos; singles that garnered broadcast and online radio play (since Spotify rips artists off, I don't really care about streams); national press, and other awards. Note that the Dirty Jersey Dozen are presented in alphabetical order. To get a sense of pecking order, please check out the 26th Annual Makin Waves Awards, as well as the Makin Waves Top 10 Jersey Indie Albums and Makin Waves Top 10 Jersey Indie Songs.

published on 12/21/2024

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26th Annual Makin Waves Awards

​​​​​​​Makin Waves' annual holiday gift to the New Jersey music scene turns 26 this year with a bevy of goodness, particularly for top winners Jackson Pines, Rachel Ana Dobken, and Emerson Woolf, who each won two. And here we go...

published on 12/20/2024

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Makin Waves Song of the Year: "My God" by James Mastro

The poignant, engaging "My God" not only sets the tone of Hoboken legend James Mastro's long-awaited solo debut LP, "Dawn of a New Error," it also is the Makin Waves Song of the Year.

published on 12/18/2024

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: "Maybe Next Christmas" by Carolyn Marosy

For all those who are lonely, depressed and anxious during the communal holiday season of joy and peace, a Jersey-raised singer-songwriter has written an anthem of hope for you.

published on 12/13/2024

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Makin Waves with Jackson Pines: Makin Waves Band of the Year

Jackson Pines have been my favorite Jersey band for a few years now. They keep gettin' better and makin more waves so that's gonna last for a while and hopefully long enough for Jackson Pines to turn the next generation onto their multi-generational sound that spans the American spawn of Afro-Celtic roots music, especially from their native Pine Barrens. They will have won this year's Makin Waves Band of the Year and Album of the Year awards — the latter for the second year in a row — when the Makin Waves Awards are announced around Christmas.

published on 12/09/2024

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: "Must Be Santa" by The Weeklings

Elvis was the Pelvis. Jerry Lee was Killer. The Beatles were The Fab Four. Well, The Weeklings are The Mashers, kings of the musical mashup.

published on 12/06/2024

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: "A Pocketful of Christmas" by The NEW Bardōts

​​​​​​​The air cooling, the wind blowing, and leaves falling down signal the time for The NEW Bardōts to keep a band tradition alive by releasing a new holiday song.

published on 11/29/2024

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: "Quasimodo's Love Note" by Never the Name

The Makin Waves Song of the Week is "Quasimodo's Love Note," the debut single of the new all-Star band Never the Name.

published on 11/22/2024

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: "All Fall Down" by Richard Barone & Darryl McDaniels

Is everybody happy?! Well, you should be with "All Fall Down," the new colab between Hoboken legend Richard Barone and hip-hop pioneer Darryl McDaniels of Run-D.M.C.

published on 11/15/2024

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Makin Waves with The Smithereens: 'Maintain That Spirit'

Carteret's own New Jersey Hall of Fame power-pop act The Smithereens will return Dec. 7 to Carteret Performing Arts & Events Center for a homecoming concert. Guest vocalists and longtime friends Robin Wilson of Gin Blossoms and Marshall Crenshaw will join Carteret-raised guitarist Jim Babjak, drummer Dennis Diken and bassist Mike Mesaros.

published on 11/13/2024

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Makin Waves with Albert Music Hall: 'Be a Part of Our History'

One of the greatest musical treasures in New Jersey is Albert Music Hall, the roots venue created in 1974 by the friends of Joe and George Albert of Sayreville. In the 1950s, Joe bought land in Waretown after he and George went hunting there. With his brother and their friends in the thick of the Jersey Pine Barrens, he built a hunting cabin, which they called The Homeplace. On Saturday nights, several of their friends would jam with the Alberts at The Homeplace on old-time, country, bluegrass, folk, and Irish music, as well as Pinelands originals.

published on 11/10/2024

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: "For Me and You" by Helen O'Shea

The Makin Waves Song of the Week is "For Me and You," the new single from Princeton-based singer-songwriter Helen O'Shea.

published on 11/08/2024

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Makin Waves Album of the Month: "Mistakes Are a Friend of Mine" by The Break Plans

​​​​​​​With a heartfelt vibe and captivating charm, Jersey Shore-based The Break Plans offer a refreshing perspective on navigating life's beautiful mistakes on their seven-track EP, "Mistakes Are a Friend of Mine." Each song serves as a beacon of hope, reminding listeners that while heartbreak may be painful, it also can be a transformative experience that ultimately leads to growth and self-discovery.

published on 11/05/2024

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: "Live for the Night" by The Antoine Poncelet Band

Just in time for Halloween, the goth-flavored The Antoine Poncelet Band have released "Live for the Night." The energetically ghoulish tune is the Makin Waves Song of the Week.

published on 11/01/2024

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: "Love & Let Go" by cr0wcallz

My Jersey Shore-raised nephew who goes by the stage name cr0wcallz has been killin' it as a DJ in his new hometown of New Hope, as well as his future hometown of Brooklyn.

published on 10/25/2024

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Makin Waves Album of the Month: "Pine Barrens Volume Two" by Jackson Pines

My favorite Jersey album last year was Jackson Pines' "Pine Barrens Volume One," the title of which had me and I'm sure a lot of other folks excited about "Volume Two," which dropped earlier this year and was supposed to be part of a combo review with "Wheel," the band's next original studio album. But Jackson Pines have been makin so many waves, they had to postpone the "Wheel" release so here's a review of "PBV2" all by its lonesome.

published on 10/23/2024

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: "Woman Child" by The Cynz

The Makin Waves Song of the Week is "Woman Child," the first single from The Cynz's upcoming album due next year on Jem Records.

published on 10/18/2024

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Makin Waves with James Mastro: 'Goldfish in a Thimble'

Hoboken legend James Mastro (The Bongos, Health & Happiness Show) has several shows coming up in support of his solo debut album, "Dawn of a New Error," released earlier this year on Rachael Sage's MPress Records. He'll play solo opening for The Jayhawks on Oct. 26 at The Newton Theatre in Newton and for Marshall Crenshaw on Nov. 23 at Wonder Bar in Asbury Park. With his backing band, The Gold Stars, James also will play Nov. 9 at Concerts in the Studio in West Freehold.

published on 10/16/2024

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: "Costume Party" by The Successful Failures

​​​​​​​After 44 years writing about music, I can tell you that most of the best-known bands didn't last long enough to release 11 albums. But with their brand new 12-song outing, "Enemy Sublime," Chesterfield-based The Successful Failures have.

published on 10/11/2024

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Makin Waves Alive: Middlesex County Jazz Festival with Nat Adderley Jr. Quartet, Carteret High School Varsity Vocals and Carteret High School Jazz Ensemble

On Sept. 26, the second annual Middlesex County Jazz Festival expanded into Carteret for the first time with a rousing headlining performance by Nat Adderley Jr. Quartet, the beloved West Orange-based outfit led by the longtime Luther Vandross pianist-arranger-composer-producer.

published on 10/05/2024

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: "By the Light of the Moon" by Magnolia Street String Band

The Makin Waves Song of the Week is "By the Light of the Moon," the title track of Highland Park-based bluegrass outfit Magnolia Street String Band's sophomore LP.

published on 10/04/2024

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Makin Waves with The Nitro Blues Band: Sweet Victory

The winner of the annual Carteret Battle of the Bands is The Nitro Blues Band, a young four-piece steeped in the roots of rock that also influenced The Rolling Stones, The Allman Brothers Band, Cream and Led Zeppelin.

published on 10/01/2024

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: "All Fired Up" by Wiser Time

The Makin Waves Song of the Week is "All Fired Up," the title track of Wiser Time's new EP.

published on 09/27/2024

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Makin Waves Album of the Month: "Hustling in Place" by Ryan Gregg

One of the hardest-working musicians in the New Jersey music scene, Asbury Park singer-songwriter-keyboardist-producer Ryan Gregg thankfully carved out some time from his busy schedule to bless eager ears with his stunning six-song solo debut EP, "Hustling in Place."

published on 09/23/2024

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: "Strange Bird" by The Grip Weeds

The Makin Waves Song of the Week is "Strange Bird," a re-recording of The Grip Weeds 1988 debut single.

published on 09/20/2024

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: "Cherry" by The dt's

The latest single by the dt's, "Cherry," is a hook haven that proves the Central Jersey power-pop duo is getting better with age.

published on 09/13/2024

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Talking with Randy Bachman of Bachman Turner Overdrive: 'Takin' Care of Business'

Randy Bachman, founder of Bachman-Turner Overdrive, will play Sept. 17 at Carteret Performing Arts & Events Center. The show also chronicles his greatest hits with The Guess Who.

published on 09/10/2024

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Makin Waves with Steve Forbert: Keep on Keepin' on

​​​​​​​Now based in Asbury Park, Meridian, MS-raised singer-songwriter Steve Forbert is an American musical treasure whose latest album, "Daylight Savings Time," is another omnivorously observant chronicle of magic and meaning within everyday moments. As he approaches his 70th birthday, Steve explores aging with beautiful, natural metaphors and a few man-made ones, such as the fun-loving "Purple Toyota," the album's second single.

published on 09/07/2024

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: "(Not) What I Want" by The Break Plans

The Makin Waves Song of the Week is "(Not) What I Want" from Jersey Shore trio The Break Plans' forthcoming debut EP.

published on 09/06/2024

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: "Count the Stars" by Kate Dressed Up

The Makin Waves Song of the Week is "Count the Stars" from South Jersey-raised singer-songwriter Kate Dressed Up's 2022 LP, "In Another Lifetime," which recently celebrated its vinyl reissue.

published on 08/30/2024

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Makin Waves Album of the Month: "Garden State Vampire" by Joe P.

The latest Asbury Park artist signed to a major label is former Deal Casino mastermind Joe P. on Atlantic Records. Throughout their reign, Deal Casino, which Joe had fronted since eighth grade, was one of New Jersey's best bands. Therefore, it's no surprise that "Garden State Vampire," Joe's full-length debut LP and third solo release for the historic recording home of Ray Charles, Aretha Franklin and Led Zeppelin, is fantastic! Many of the 11 songs were co-written with former Deal Casino band mates and a few of the tracks include their drummer, Christopher Donofrio. A few other musicians, mainly drummers, also appear on the LP, but Joe plays most of the instruments, including drums on some tracks.

published on 08/26/2024

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: "Rolling Away" by Jake Thistle

The Makin Waves Song of the Week is "Rolling Away" from Asbury Park singer-songwriter Jake Thistle's new "Live From The Transparent Clinch Gallery" album.

published on 08/23/2024

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​​​​​​​Makin Waves Song of the Week: "I Said" by Lost in Society

The Makin Waves Song of the Week is "I Said" from Asbury Park punk outfit Lost in Society's new four-song EP, "The Distribution of Comfort."

published on 08/16/2024

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: "The Devil Loved Again" by Ryan Gregg

Some of the greatest magic humans are capable of is the ability to turn anger into empathy, singer-songwriter-keyboardist Ryan Gregg said.

published on 08/09/2024

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Makin Waves with Mike Montrey Band: The Process of Love

Known for their dynamic fusion of Americana rock 'n' soul, Central Jersey-based Mike Montrey Band's fifth studio album since 2011, "Love, Time & Mortality," encapsulates the essence of life's relentless march through poignant musical narratives. Singer-songwriter-guitarist-pianist-producer Mike Montrey possesses a distinct ability to weave personal tales with broader philosophical musings, a craft honed over more than two decades of songwriting and performing across the United States also with the bands … water … and The Samples.

published on 08/02/2024

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: "Big Trouble" by Colossal Street Jam

The Makin Waves Song of the Week is "Big Trouble," the forthcoming single from the upcoming reissue of Colossal Street Jam's "No Way to Live" LP on Fretbar Records.

published on 08/02/2024

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: "What I Need" by Gab Cinque Band

The Makin Waves Song of the Week is "What I Need" from "Highway Junkie," the debut EP by the soaring Gab Cinque Band.

published on 07/26/2024

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: "Kerosene Mountain" by Son of Dov feat. Renee Maskin

​​​​​​​The Makin Waves Song of the Week is "Kerosene Mountain," from the new Mint 400 Records split EP, "Chansons de lune," by Son of Dov and Renee Maskin.

published on 07/19/2024

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Talking with Bill Medley of The Righteous Brothers: A Lovin' Farewell

The term the blue-eyed soul was coined by Philadelphia radio DJ Georgie Woods in 1964 to describe The Righteous Brothers. While in the recording studio for the first time in 1963, the duo of baritone Bill Medley and the late tenor Bobby Hatfield took the name bestowed upon them at John's Black Derby nightclub in Santa Ana, CA, by black Marines stationed at the nearby El Toro base.

published on 07/17/2024

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Mercer County Park Hosted "Trenton Talks Basketball Tournament" Drawing Over 250 Residents

(TRENTON, NJ) -- Mercer County Park hosted the first Trenton Talks Basketball Tournament, with a portion of all proceeds going to benefit Trenton's A Better Way foundation, on July 7, 2024. The tournament brought out over 250 residents from Trenton and surrounding communities. 12 basketball teams competed for top honors. There was also a double-dutch jump rope contest, judged by Skil-Lit Café Owners Robert Wilborn and Dionna Maldonado.

published on 07/17/2024

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: "Strange and Wonderful" by Whirling Dervishes

The Makin Waves Song of the Week is "Strange and Wonderful," the title track of Whirling Dervishes' 1992 album, now available on all streaming platforms.

published on 07/12/2024

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Makin Waves with The Well Wish: 'Where We Go from Here'

Asbury Park-based The Well Wish are the Makin Waves Artist of the Month for July and the winner last month of the third annual Point Pleasant Beach Battle of the Bands sponsored by the Point Pleasant Beach Chamber of Commerce.

published on 07/08/2024

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: "Walt Frazier's Suit" by Silent Knight

New Brunswick rapper Silent Knight re-teamed with producer Red Walrus (Action Bronson/Harry Fraud/Surf School) to release "Walt Frazier's Suit," a sequel to their acclaimed song, "Craig Sager's Suit."

published on 07/05/2024

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Makin Waves Album of the Month: "Another Deadbeat Summer" by Bobby Mahoney

The Jersey Shore's hardest-working musician, Bobby Mahoney, has landed himself a well-deserved record deal with Wicked Cool Records, the label owned by Sounds of Asbury Park architect Little Steven. The label debut, "Another Deadbeat Summer," actually is a greatest local hits collection from the LPs, EPs and singles released since 2014 by Bobby and his East Brunswick-originated, Asbury-based band, the Seventh Son, as well as the 2015 solo EP, "Luck."

published on 07/02/2024

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: "Dirty Jersey" by Ryan Gregg

The Makin Waves Song of the Week is "Dirty Jersey," singer-songwriter-keyboardist Ryan Gregg's latest single from his forthcoming solo debut EP, "Hustling in Place."

published on 06/28/2024

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Makin Waves Album of the Month: "Everything Must Go" by Emerson Woolf & the Wishbones

I no longer weep for the future of music. There's a young woman who makes just about some of the best roots rock New Jersey proudly can call its own. Her name is Emerson Woolf, and her crackerjack band are the Wishbones. 

published on 06/23/2024

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: "Julie Jane" by Jackson Pines

The Makin Waves Song of the Week is Jackson Pines' cover of Merce Ridgway Sr.'s "Julie Jane" from their forthcoming album, "Pine Barrens Volume Two."

published on 06/21/2024

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Makin Waves with Anthony Krizan: Roots Run Deep

Anthony Krizan has released his sophomore solo LP, "Cool Shade of Blue," which features drummer Chad Cromwell (Neil Young, Mark Knopfler) and the Dave Matthews Band horn section, as well as collaborations with songwriters Larry McCoy, Alan Glass (Aretha Franklin, George Benson), Sam Tate (Waylon Jennings), Tom Marshall (Phish) and horn and string arrangements by Don Hart (Trey Anastasio).

published on 06/17/2024

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: "Dandelion" by The Grip Weeds

The Makin Waves Song of the Week is The Grip Weeds' cover of The Rolling Stones' "Dandelion" from the new tribute compilation "JEM Records Celebrates Jagger & Richards."

published on 06/14/2024

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: "Crash" by Kanak

The Makin Waves Song of the Week is "Crash" from Kanak's Ed Stasium-produced EP, "On the Outside."

published on 06/07/2024

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: "Stained Glass Window Panes" by Mike Montrey Band

The Makin Waves Song of the Week is "Stained Glass Window Panes," the leadoff single and opening track of Mike Montrey Band's forthcoming album, "Love, Time & Mortality."

published on 05/31/2024

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: "Loners, Misfits and Rebels" by Carolyn Marosy

Veteran Jersey rocker Carolyn Marosy (Sulkweed, RAW) has released a video for the title track of her acclaimed solo EP, "Loners, Misfits and Rebels."

published on 05/24/2024

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Makin Waves with Chad Sabo: "A Product of My Environment"

A musical fixture of the Asbury Park music scene for 15 years, multi-instrumentalist Chad Sabo has been blessed with a variety of great musical projects, such as The Cold Seas, an indie alternative rock trio with guitarist Erik Rudic and drummer Nash Breen. Taking a break from The Cold Seas allowed Chad to create an excellent solo debut album, "Joyride," which he released in February. But before he could tour behind the 10-song collection, he got a gig as the bassist in Armor for Sleep with whom he will have been on the road all spring and summer. The opportunity serves as a Cold Seas reunion because both Erik and Nash are in Armor for Sleep too.

published on 05/19/2024

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: "Black SwanP" by Mike Noordzy

The Makin Waves Song of the Week is "Black SwanP" from the EP "Dark Sparks", released earlier this year.

published on 05/17/2024

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Makin Waves Album of the Month: "Little Miss Lost" by The Cynz

Well, here's a marriage made in rock 'n' roll heaven: veteran New Brunswick rockers The Cynz have released their label debut LP for longtime Central Jersey-based Jem Records. Both have been around a while, but "Little Miss Lost" marks their first time working together.

published on 05/15/2024

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: "Better Off" by The Break Plans

"Better Off," the latest single from Jersey Shore-based The Break Plans, is the Makin Waves Song of the Week.

published on 05/10/2024

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: "High" by Widely Grown

Widely Grown's latest single, "High," is the Makin Waves Song of the Week.

published on 05/03/2024

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: "Wave" by Scott McDonald

The very appropriately entitled Makin Waves Song of the Week, "Wave," is the second single from Tusk guitarist-vocalist Scott McDonald's forthcoming solo LP.

published on 04/26/2024

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: "Too Many Tabs Open" by Jason Didner

Multi-instrumentalists, such as Xavier Rudd, Garth Hudson and Stevie Wonder, fascinate me. So does Jason Didner, who showcases his multi-hyphenated talent in the new video for his funny but meaningful song, "Too Many Tabs Open," the Makin Waves Song of the Week.

published on 04/19/2024

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Makin Waves with Jackson Pines: 'Ghosts Still Laugh'

Having recently released their latest single, "Control Burn," Jackson Pines will release two albums in the second half of the year: "Pine Barrens Volume Two," a sequel to last year's Pinelands treasure, and "Wheel," the roots-rock band's fifth collection of original tunes since 2017.

published on 04/18/2024

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: "My Fight, Alone" by Colossal Street Jam

Colossal Street Jam's track "My Fight, Alone" from the forthcoming reissue of their latest album, "No Way to Live," is the Makin Waves Song of the Week.

published on 04/12/2024

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: "Apple Tree Days" by Patrick Fitzsimmons

From Good Homes’ Patrick Fitzsimmons is the Makin Waves Song of the Week with the title track of his latest solo album, "Apple Tree Days.”

published on 04/05/2024

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Makin Waves Album of the Month: "Acceptance" by Rachel Ana Dobken

​​​​​​​After the release of several singles, the multi-hyphenated talent of Asbury Park songstress Rachel Ana Dobken — songwriter, drummer, guitarist, vocalist, keyboardist, producer, videographer, live music curator, graphic artist — comes to full fruition with her second full-length album, "Acceptance."

published on 04/03/2024

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: "With You Still" by Helen O'Shea feat. Emily Grove

Helen O'Shea's forthcoming single, "With You Still," featuring beloved Jersey Shore songstress Emily Grove, is the Makin Waves Song of the Week.

published on 03/29/2024

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: "In Deep Lakes We Settle" by Spring Ahead, Fall Apart

"In Deep Lakes We Settle" from Spring Ahead, Fall Apart's full-length debut album, "Blanket Statements," is the Makin Waves Song of the Week.

published on 03/22/2024

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Makin Waves Album of the Month: "On the Outside" by Kanak

Legendary producer-engineer Ed Stasium (The Ramones, Talking Heads, The Smithereens) was the perfect choice to distill Kanak's raucous three-guitar sound on their latest EP, "On the Outside." Ed had previously worked with David Johansen/Sylvain Sylvain guitarist Johnny Rao who shares six-string duties with Kanak singer-songwriter Tom Kanach (Grimace, Well of Souls, Mischief) and Dramarama guitarist Peter Wood. Rounding out the lineup is the rowdy but tight rhythm section of bassist Joe Rowley and drummer Steve Brown.

published on 03/19/2024

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: "Streets of Dublin" by James Deely

With a video literally shot on the streets of Dublin, veteran rocker James Deely's "Streets of Dublin" is the Makin Waves Song of the Week.

published on 03/15/2024

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Makin Waves with Renee Maskin: Helping Hands

​​​​​​​The Garden State Film Festival will screen Asbury Park singer-songwriter Renee Maskin's Makin Waves Award-winning video "Scrimshaw" on March 23 at Asbury Lanes. The short film was produced by award-winning filmmaker John Decker, Renee’s boyfriend, whose work has been featured at the festival before.

published on 03/10/2024

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: "Digital Carnival" by Jason Didner

Singer-songwriter Jason Didner's first single and title track from his forthcoming "Digital Carnival" LP is the Makin Waves Song of the Week.

published on 03/08/2024

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: "Still a Fool" by Blaise

Asbury Park artist Blaise's "Still a Fool" from his fourth full-length album, "Sealed with Best Wishes," and featured on the recent charity compilation, "Winter Rental," is the Makin Waves Song of the Week.

published on 03/01/2024

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Makin Waves Album of the Month: "The Cabin Sessions" by Nefesh Mountain

Since their arrival on the scene in 2015, Montclair-based progressive roots-flavored Nefesh Mountain have been hailed as one of the formative boundary-pushing groups in Americana music. Husband-and-wife team Eric Lindberg and Doni Zasloff blur the lines between Americana, Judaic music, folk, bluegrass, klezmer, jazz and blues typically with a traditional-minded acoustic approach.

published on 02/26/2024

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: "Right Words, Wrong Song" by James Mastro

After 50 years in such awesome bands as The Bongos and Health & Happiness Show and as sideman to Richard Lloyd, Patti Smith, Ian Hunter, Alejandro Escovedo, Jill Sobule, John Cale, Judy Collins, The Jayhawks, and Southside Johnny, legendary Hoboken singer-songwriter-guitarist James Mastro finally has released a solo album.

published on 02/23/2024

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: "Look Alive" by The Azures

Jersey Shore-based The Azures' "Look Alive" from their new self-titled debut album is the Makin Waves Song of the Week.

published on 02/16/2024

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Makin Waves with Candy Cavity: 'Brought Back to Life'

Candy Cavity and their front woman Candace Schur are survivors. They would be a much bigger and better-known band if not for a continually changing lineup that recently solidified with the addition of Black Light Medusa band mates Jenny "Cat" Ketrow on bass and Cathy Berg on drums. They join longtime lead guitarist Steve Markow on what will be a healthy spring and summer of shows, as well as a new single, an acoustic remake of Candy Cavity's 2021 tune "Secret Lover."

published on 02/13/2024

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: "All In My Head" by the dt's

"All in My Head," the latest single by the Asbury Park duo the dt's, is the Makin Waves Song of the Week.

published on 02/09/2024

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: "Beautiful Losers" by The Antoine Poncelet Band

​​​​​​​New Jersey's own goth n' rollers The Antoine Poncelet Band have released their fourth digital single, "Beautiful Losers," a gothic prog-rock ode to the broken hearts of the world.

published on 02/02/2024

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​​​​​​​Makin Waves Song of the Week: "Not a Good Woman" by Emerson Woolf & the Wishbones

"Not a Good Woman," the title track of Asbury Park-based Emerson Woolf & the Wishbones' debut EP, is the Makin Waves Song of the Week.

published on 01/26/2024

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: "Outside" by Kanak

With a new video, "Outside," the first single from Kanak's forthcoming Ed Stasium-produced EP, is the Makin Waves Song of the Week

published on 01/19/2024

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Makin Waves Album of the Month: "Raspberry Park" by The Weeklings

The Weeklings vibrant new concept album, "Raspberry Park" on JEM Records, would be cause for celebration alone, but there's even more to celebrate because their album release party coincides with the Light of Day Festival's annual Asbury Angels Induction Ceremony. Joining in the joint festivities on Jan. 19 at The Stone Pony will be Dramarama, Joe P., Joe Grushecky & the Houserockers, Joe D'Urso & Stone Caravan, Ten Ton Mojo, Midnight Callers, Evan Rotella, Ben Arnold, Bob Polding & Gary Oleyar, Jon Caspi and Mike Rocket.

published on 01/19/2024

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Makin Waves with Colossal Street Jam: Good Things Come to Those Who Wait

Jersey Shore rockers Colossal Street Jam will play Friday, Jan. 19 at Mercury Lounge in New York City, then on Feb. 23, will release "Seconds," their second single on Chicago-based Fretbar Records in an anticipation of a reissue of their latest album, "No Way to Live."

published on 01/18/2024

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: "All Fired Up" by Wiser Time

Wiser Time, aka Carmen Sclafani, is the Makin Waves Song of the Week with the title track single of his forthcoming EP, "All Fired Up."

published on 01/12/2024

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Talking about Tom Petty & the Heartbreakers with Southern Accents

A team of ace musicians from the Nashville studio and touring circuit, Southern Accents recreates the music, style, and sound of the late great singer-songwriter-guitarist Tom Petty. Whether it be T.P.'s solo material or that which he created with his Rock and Roll Hall of Fame band, the Heartbreakers, Southern Accents will present their signature immaculate precision and wildly contagious enthusiasm on Jan. 20 at URSB Carteret Performing Arts & Events Center.

published on 01/09/2024

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: "Trapped in Ice" by Transilvia

New Brunswick '90s rockers Transilvia are back together, and "Trapped in Ice" from their 2023 reunion album "Hz" is the Makin Waves Song of the Week.

published on 01/05/2024

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: "Brain Chemistry" by Via Crowe

Asbury Park singer-songwriter Via Crowe is the Makin Waves Song of the Week with "Brain Chemistry" from her self-released debut album, "UNFINISHED."

published on 12/29/2023

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Makin Waves Dirty Jersey Dozen 2023

Each year, Makin Waves picks the 12 independent New Jersey music acts who made the most waves. That means extensive touring in support of a new LP or EP, preferably internationally; professional quality narrative videos; singles that garnered broadcast and online radio play (since Spotify rips artists off, Makin Waves doesn’t really care about streams); national press, and other awards. Note that the Dirty Dozen are presented here in alphabetical order

published on 12/27/2023

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Makin Waves Top 10 2023 NJ Indie Albums

​​​​​​​Here are the top 10 albums by New Jersey indie artists, according to Makin Waves.

published on 12/25/2023

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Makin Waves Top 10 2023 NJ Indie Songs

Here are the top 10 songs by New Jersey indie artists, according to Makin Waves

published on 12/24/2023

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: "Turnaround" by The Vaughns

In celebration of their 10th anniversary as a band, The Vaughns' single and video for "Turnaround" from their Equal Vision full-length debut, "Egg Everything," is the Makin Waves Song of the Week.

published on 12/22/2023

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25th Annual Makin Waves Awards

Makin Waves' annual holiday gift to the New Jersey music scene celebrates its silver anniversary with a bevy of goodness, particularly for top winners Renee Maskin and Jackson Pines, who each won three. And here we go...

published on 12/20/2023

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: "Christmas, Bring Us" by The Grip Weeds

Highland Park-based The Grip Weeds have reissued their "Under the Influence of Christmas" on JEM Records. The LP featured a video for "Christmas, Bring Us," one of four holiday originals and the Makin Waves Song of the Week.

published on 12/15/2023

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Makin Waves with Dogs in a Pile: Makin Waves Band of the Year

With a studio album, a live album, professional narrative videos, lots of live videos, and tours that took them as far from home as Iceland, Asbury Park-based Dogs in a Pile are the Makin Waves Band of the Year.

published on 12/11/2023

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: "Christmas Must Be Tonight" by The New Bardots

The New Bardots' new holiday single, a cover of The Band's "Christmas Must Be Tonight," is the Makin Waves Song of the Week.

published on 12/08/2023

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Makin Waves with Richie "LaBamba" Rosenberg: Hip Hip Holiday Hurrah!

​​​​​​​In a career spanning over 30 years, Philadelphia-born Richie "LaBamba" Rosenberg has brought his trombone, voice, and personality to the world of music and television. He's toured and recorded with Bruce Springsteen, Southside Johnny, Little Steven, Jon Bon Jovi, Diana Ross, Dave Edmonds, Ricky Martin, John Mayall, Darlene Love, Jessica Simpson, and Joe Cocker, to name a few. LaBamba enjoyed 25 years on late night television with Conan O' Brien, playing trombone as a member of the Max Weinberg 7 and Jimmy Vivino & the Basic Cable Band. With Conan, he also was featured in a myriad of comedy sketches, such as "In the Year 2000," developing a respectable cult following in the process.

published on 12/04/2023

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: "Sweat on the Brain" by Honey Wild

Honey Wild, winners of the 2019 Makin Waves Song of the Year, will celebrate the release of their new EP, "Strange & Distant," on Dec. 2 at Pianos in New York City.

published on 12/01/2023

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: "Girl with No Name" by Steve Conte

Jersey Shore-raised singer-songwriter-guitarist Steve Conte soon will release his fourth solo LP, his second on Little Steven Van Zandt's Wicked Cool Records, the single of which,"Girl with No Name," is the Makin Waves Song of the Week.

published on 11/24/2023

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Makin Waves Album of the Month: "Shimmer" by Renee Maskin

I’ve known for a long time that Renee Maskin is an amazing songwriter and performer, but I had no idea that she could play so many instruments so well. A former member of the Makin Waves Band of the Year Award-winning Lowlight, Renee shines on the brand new self-produced Mint 400 Records LP, "Shimmer," playing much more than her typical guitar accompaniment. She adds lap steel, piano, drums, bass, synthesizer, banjo and more to the mix.

published on 11/18/2023

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: "Overanalyze" by Louyah

​​​​​​​South Jersey-raised Loud Era recording artist Louyah will end his largely sold-out national tour on Nov. 17 at Asbury Lanes.

published on 11/17/2023

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Makin Waves with Bruce Tunkel: 'Tougher Answers'

Bruce Tunkel has created some New Jersey's best original music for more than three decades. At first it was with The Red House, whose success with the 1986 self-produced/released, "There Is a Window," led to a deal with SBK Records and MTV play for "I Said a Prayer," the single from their 1989 self-titled LP.

published on 11/13/2023

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: "Shower the People" by Taylor Simon King

Veterans Day is November 11th, and Taylor Simon King is showering veterans with love with upcoming benefits for them. To celebrate, their cover of James Taylor's "Shower the People" is the Makin Waves Song of the Week

published on 11/10/2023

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: "Outside" by Kanak

Jersey Shore rockers Kanak will celebrate the release of their new Ed Stasium-produced EP on Nov. 4 at Crossroads in Garwood. The first single and video, "Outside," is the Makin Waves Song of the Week. The band is pictured with Ed in his Southern California studio.

published on 11/03/2023

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: "Sunny V" by Jerry Weldon

Jersey Jazz great Jerry Weldon will record a live album on Nov. 3 at New Brunswick Performing Arts Center. One of the tunes he'll record, "Sunny V," is the Makin Waves Song of the Week.

published on 10/27/2023

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Makin Waves Album of the Month: "I Won't Cry Alone" by Roadside Graves

"I Won't Cry Alone" is the seventh full-length release from Metuchen-based Roadside Graves for the New Brunswick-originated indie Don Giovanni Records, also the home Jersey acts Screaming Females and Teenage Halloween. In 2011, Roadside Graves released "We Can Take Care of Ourselves," based on S.E. Hinton's classic novel "The Outsiders." During the heart of the pandemic, the band collaborated remotely and again returned to Hinton's writing for inspiration, this time drawing from her more painful and surreal book "Rumblefish."

published on 10/24/2023

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: "You’re Not Here" by Jonathan Tea

Asbury Park singer-songwriter Jonathan Tea's latest single, "You’re Not Here," is the Makin Waves Song of the Week.

published on 10/20/2023

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Makin Waves with Reagan Richards: ‘Sacred Ground‘

Singer-songwriter Reagan Richards of the Asbury Park country duo Williams Honor with Gordon Brown is honoring her recently departed mother, Harriet, a big band singer from Pittsburgh who performed many times with Les Paul throughout her career. Reagan’s sentimental journey through the Great American Songbook, “with love, reagan,” features material by songwriting legends, such George Gershwin, Cole Porter, Irving Berlin, Johnny Mercer, and Rodgers & Hammerstein.

published on 10/16/2023

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: "Cruel Cruel Cruel" by Rachel Ana Dobken

"Cruel Cruel Cruel," the most recent single and video from the multi-hyphenated talent of Asbury Park songstress Rachel Ana Dobken, is the Makin Waves Song of the Week.

published on 10/13/2023

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Makin Waves with Kanak: 'Music Was My Escape'

Tom Kanach has led three great bands throughout a near 40-year local music career: Mischief, the Makin Waves Band of the Year Award-winning Well of Souls, and now Kanak.

published on 10/12/2023

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: "Frog" by latewaves

"Frog," a recent single and video from Asbury Park indie trio latewaves' brand new self-titled label debut for Open Your Ears Records, is the Makin Waves Song of the Week.

published on 10/06/2023

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: "Undertow" by Elk City

"Undertow," the title track of Elk City's recently released seventh album by Montclair-based Elk City, is the Makin Waves Song of the Week.

published on 09/29/2023

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Makin Waves with Glen Burtnik: 'Lava Lamp Nirvana'

Legendary Jersey rocker Glen Burtnik will bring his Summer of Love Concert to URSB Carteret Performing Arts & Events Center on Oct. 7

published on 09/25/2023

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: "For Jaco" by Edmar Castaneda

Jersey City-based jazz harpist Edmar Castaneda will particpiate in the inaugural Middlesex County Jazz Festival next week. His "For Jaco" is the Makin Waves Song of the Week.

published on 09/22/2023

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Makin Waves Album of the Month: "Promises" by The Well Wish

​​​​​​​I love the romance of Asbury Park-based The Well Wish. Two singer-songwriters, PJ Angeloni and Anya Schildge, become musical partners, fall in love, and also become life partners.

published on 09/20/2023

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: "Rust" by Flycatcher

Asbury Park indie rockers Flycatcher kick off a two-week tour on Sept. 19 in Massachusetts that will take them through Michigan. "Rust," the latest single and video from their "Stunt" EP, is the Makin Waves Song of the Week.

published on 09/15/2023

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Makin Waves with Dave Vargo: 'Better Than Before'

The Makin Waves Artist of the Month for September, Dave Vargo has shows coming up Sept. 14 at The Asbury hotel's Salvation Roof Top Bar in Asbury Park; Sept. 15, Colts Neck Inn; Sept. 17, Pattenburg House in Hunterdon County with Brian Molnar & the Slow Rolling Live, Sept. 19 and 26 during his own "2forTuesday" Facebook Live show, and Sept. 30 at Asbury Park Porchfest, which he helped organize.

published on 09/14/2023

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​​​​​​​Makin Waves Song of the Week: "Tiger Rag" by Stephane Wrembel's Django New Orleans

Maplewood-based jazz guitarist Stephane Wrembel's Django New Orleans project will perform Sept. 16 at (Le) Poisson Rouge in New York City. Their version of the Dixieland standard "Tiger Rag" is the Makin Waves Song of the Week.

published on 09/08/2023

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​​​​​​​Makin Waves Song of the Week: "Look It Here" by Colossal Street Jam

​​​​​​​Jersey Shore veterans Colossal Street Jam, who recently signed to Nashville-based Fretbar Records, is the Makin Waves Song of the Week with "Look It Here," a scorching R&B track from their latest album, "No Way to Leave," featuring Asbury great Des Spinks of the Swagmatics, as well as The Madmen Horns of The Netherlands.

published on 09/01/2023

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: "Lust of the Night" by The Azures

The Azures' third single, "Lust of the Night," is the Makin Waves Song of the Week.

published on 08/25/2023

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Makin Waves Album of the Month: "You, Me & The Make Three" by The Make Three

Fans of power trios, such as Husker Du, Nirvana and Green Day will love the local supergroup The Make Three's debut album, "You, Me & The Make Three," on Mint 400 Records. The 10 songs mainly were written by singer-songwriter-guitarist Jerry Lardieri while crafting a Mint 400 album for his main band, The Brixton Riot. But he had enough great tunes left over to make the gritty but gorgeous "You, Me & The Three" with The Anderson Council pals Peter Horvath on bass and vocals and the band's former drummer Chris Ryan.

published on 08/22/2023

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: "Dirty Stayouts" by Shawn Mars

"Dirty Stayouts" by veteran Jersey rocker Shawn Mars is the Makin Waves Song of the Week.

published on 08/18/2023

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: "See My Friends" by The Grip Weeds

"See My Friends," one of two contributions by the Highland Park-based power-pop outfit The Grip Weeds to the brand new "JEM Records Celebrates Ray Davies," is the Makin Waves Song of the Week.

published on 08/11/2023

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: "You're So Vain" by Taylor Simon King

Taylor Simon King returns Aug. 5 to URSB Carteret Performing Arts & Events Center. A celebration of American troubadours James Taylor, Carly Simon and Carole King, the all-star band's take on "You're So Vain" is the Makin Waves Song of the Week.

published on 08/04/2023

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Makin Waves with Nat Adderley Jr.: 'The Path Chose Me'

After 50 years in the music business as a sought-after pianist, arranger, composer, producer and music director, Nat Adderley Jr. finally will be releasing his debut solo album soon.

published on 08/03/2023

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: "Fighting in Philly" by Tom Costello and the Turnaround

Tom Costello and the Turnaround have re-recorded his solo track, "Fighting in Philly," their new single version of which is the Makin Waves Song of the Week.

published on 07/28/2023

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Makin Waves Album of the Month: "Mantra" by Natalie Farrell

"Mantra," Asbury Park songstress Natalie Farrell's long-awaited follow-up to her 2018 debut EP, "Natality," will arrive with a release party on July 29 at Asbury Lanes. Based on the new EP's five songs, the event will also be a dance party!

published on 07/26/2023

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: "Policy of Truth" by The New Bardots

From their brand new album, “Turn Your Head and Cough,” on Bongo Boy Records, The New Bardots have released their latest single and video featuring a cover of the Depeche Mode classic “Policy of Truth,” the Makin Waves Song of the Week.

published on 07/21/2023

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Makin Waves with Ryan Gregg: 'Enjoy the Conversation'

​​​​​​​Asbury Park singer-songwriter-keyboardist-producer Ryan Gregg constantly is working on stage, in the studio, and on social media as a solo artist, the founding member of The Shady Street Show Band; the singer-keyboardist in Ocean Avenue Stompers, a New Orleans-inspired brass band founded by Shady Street trombonist Ian Gray; a keyboardist-vocalist in "Stormin'" Norman Seldin's Big Band, and as a part of dueling piano duos with Norman, as well as Des Spinks of Des & the Swagmatics. Yet, he never seems overworked. Rather the more he works, the more joy he experiences, expresses and shares.

published on 07/18/2023

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: "Strange Violence" by The Antoine Poncelet Band

The Antoine Poncelet Band's new single, "Strange Violence," is the Makin Waves Song of the Week.

published on 07/14/2023

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: "First Place" by Sam MacPherson

Jersey Shore singer-songwriter Sam MacPherson is heading home from a national tour and to celebrate, his single "First Place" is the Makin Waves Song of the Week

published on 07/07/2023

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: "Scrimshaw" by Renee Maskin

Asbury Park singer-songwriter Renee Maskin has released her latest single on Mint 400 Records, "Scrimshaw," the video for which is a collaboration with her boyfriend, John Decker, as well as the Makin Waves Song of the Week.

published on 06/30/2023

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: "Fill It with Love" by The Wag

In the midst of celebrating its 25th year as a band, Jersey Shore-based The Wag will jump the pond next week by continuing the festivities with a week-long tour of London. 

published on 06/23/2023

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​​​​​​​Makin Waves Song of the Week: "I'm on Fire" by The Weeklings

Asbury faves The Weeklings have dropped a power-popping rockabilly-flavored cover of Bruce Springsteen's "I'm on Fire," the Makin Waves Song of the Week.

published on 06/16/2023

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Makin Waves with The Successful Failures: 'Chemistry that Worked Right'

It's very rare that a local musician can run his own label for more than 30 years, but that Mick Chorba has done so as the founder of two successful local bands is something I don't believe I've seen elsewhere in 43 years of writing about the New Jersey music scene and 35 years producing Makin Waves!

published on 06/15/2023

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Makin Waves Album of the Month: "High Charisma" by The Extensions + "Reverie" by Fake Pockets + "Rerun" by The Foes of Fern

Nothing screams Makin Waves like a triple album release party during New Jersey's inaugural North to Shore Festival. That's just what The Extensions, Fake Pockets, and The Foes of Fern are doing on June 16 on The Baronet Rooftop of The Asbury hotel. And all three albums by those local faves are June's Album of the Month. 

published on 06/14/2023

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: "Seconds" by Colossal Street Jam

In support of their latest album, "No Way to Live," Red Bank rockers Colossal Street Jam have a hot new video for "Seconds," the Makin Waves Song of the Week.

published on 06/09/2023

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: "Thriving" by Kiersten Blue

Asbury Park singer-songwriter Kiersten Blue’s latest single, “Thriving,” is the Makin Waves Song of the Week

published on 06/02/2023

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: "Nice to Meat You" by Baron Praxis

Jersey Shore grunge unit Baron Praxis is celebrating their reformation with “Ecocidal,” a re-recording with a new lineup of five of their songs, including the environmental-minded “Nice to Meat You,” the Makin Waves Song of the Week.

published on 05/26/2023

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: "Never Give Up on Us" by Jonathan Tea

It's been a while since Asbury Park singer-songwriter Jonathan Tea's 2020 single, "Chased by Drones." That's because he's been busy as keyboardist-vocalist in the hot alt-country act Hooper, winner of the 2022 Makin Waves Best New Artist Award.

published on 05/19/2023

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Makin Waves Album of the Month: "Northern Town" by Cranston Dean

​​​​​​​Jersey Shore great Cranston Dean always has reminded me of Jackson Browne because there are both organic-sounding multi-instrumentalist singer-songwriters with an eloquent penchant for rhyme amidst every-day stories for everyone. "Toe the Line," the opening track of Cranston's latest album, "Northern Town," is a perfect example of his Jackson sensibilities. In this case, it's post-'70s, plugged-in Jackson ala "Boulevard" and "Somebody's Baby," but I was psyched to feel that vibe right from the get go on "Northern Town," because Jackson is one of my all-time favorite artists, and I feel the same way about Cranston at a local level.

published on 05/17/2023

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: "Alone with You" by The Anderson Council

"Alone with You," the first single from the forthcoming The Anderson Council LP, "The Devil, The Tower, The Star, The Moon" on JEM Records, is the Makin Waves Song of the Week.

published on 05/12/2023

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Makin Waves with Mike Montrey: The Connections We Make ...

For a quarter of a century, singer-songwriter-guitarist-producer Mike Montrey has released a steady of stream of albums with Mike Montrey Band, as well as a few prior to that with the band ... water ... Both have featured bassist-vocalist Anthony "Duke" Duca, Mike's childhood friend. Joining them within the core of Mike Montrey Band are vocalist Jen Augustine and pedal steel guitarist Jack Stanton.

published on 05/09/2023

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: "The Town" by Young Orange

"The Town," Lacey-based singer-songwriter Young Orange's latest single and video, is the Makin Waves Song of the Week.

published on 05/05/2023

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: "Wheel" by Jackson Pines

Earlier this year, Jackson Pines released what so far has been my favorite Jersey album of the year. But "Pine Barrens Volume One" is a collection of covers of old folk songs written in and/or about Jersey Pinelands.

published on 04/28/2023

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: "Thrill of the Night" by The New Bardots

"Thrill of the Night," the latest video from The New Bardots, is the Makin Waves Song of the Week.

published on 04/21/2023

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Makin Waves Album of the Month: "Intrusive Thoughts" by Juliana Frangella

If Taylor Swift was haunted by the ghost of Warren Zevon while she made an album, it might sound like Juliana Frangella's 10-song debut LP, "Intrusive Thoughts," Like Swift, she surprisingly inspires empathy and relatability in the face of young female angst. Like Zevon, her witty wordplay and skewering sarcasm are hysterical.

published on 04/19/2023

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: "The Change" by Ruby the Hatchet

​​​​​​​Have you ever seen the Jersey-based female-fronted witch-edelic doom band Ruby the Hatchet?

published on 04/14/2023

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: "Intrusive Thoughts" by Juliana Frangella

"Intrusive Thoughts," the title track of 18-year-old singer-songwriter Juliana Frangella's debut album produced by great Jersey singer-songwriter-guitarist Mike Montrey is the Makin Waves Song of the Week

published on 04/07/2023

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: "Never Meant to Be" by Jim Mill

“Never Meant to Be,” the latest single from Jersey Shore singer-songwriter Jim Mill’s new EP, “Unhappy Hour,” is the Makin Waves Song of the Week.

published on 03/31/2023

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: "Small Town Factory" by Joe Normal

With his brand new album "Public Works," Springsteen-like blue-collar singer-songwriter Joe Normal pays homage to his hometown of Elizabeth, a place known for its importance in Revolutionary American history and industry, as well as its notorious struggles with environmental issues and crime.

published on 03/24/2023

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: "You're My Life" by Project 18 feat. Dave Vargo

Project 18, a local supergroup led by Dave Vargo, once again is the Makin Waves Song of the Week with their tune "You're My Life" from their EP, "Pomona."

published on 03/17/2023

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Makin Waves Album of the Month: "Bloom" by Dogs in a Pile

Fans of 311, O.A.R. and Slightly Stoopid will dig the reggae-tinged jam 'n' groove of Dogs in a Pile's sophomore LP, "Bloom."

published on 03/15/2023

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: "Earth" by Carolyn Marosy

"Earth," the latest video from Jersey-raised edgy roots rocker Carolyn Marosy's album "Loners, Misfits and Rebels" is the Makin Waves Song of the Week.

published on 03/10/2023

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Makin Waves with San Tropez: Time Travelers

​​​​​​​Members of some of the best bands ever to call New Brunswick home, such as Wreaths, Aviso Hara, kiaro skuro, Stuntcocks, Urchins, and Duochrome, make up the local supergroup San Tropez. With an awesome full-length debut, "Maybe Tomorrow," on the esteemed Mint 400 Records following two self-released EPs, the four veteran musicians are the epitome of why artists never should give up on their art.

published on 03/09/2023

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: "When Pigs Lie" by Public Serpents

"When Pigs Lie," the latest single from Public Serpents. forthcoming LP, “The Bully Puppet,” is the Makin Waves Song of the Week.

published on 03/03/2023

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: "Your Story" by Tide Bends

Tide Bends’ latest single, “Your Story,” is the Makin Waves Song of the Week.

published on 02/24/2023

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Spotlighting The Marshall Tucker Band: 'Something Buried Deep Inside'

Named for the recently deceased blind piano tuner who was the previous tenant of their rehearsal space in their hometown of Spartanburg, S.C., The Marshall Tucker Band have been distilling a Southern blend of rock, country, jazz, and blues that has been delighting audiences for 50 years.

published on 02/23/2023

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: "Can You Feel It?" by Bob Polding Band

Bob Polding Band's new single "Can You Feel It?" is the Makin Waves Song of the Week.

published on 02/17/2023

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Makin Waves Album of the Month: "Pine Barrens, Volume One" by Jackson Pines

Jackson Pines have lived up to their name with some of the best folk-rock ever to come out of Jersey, especially since the duo of singer-songwriter-guitarist Joe Makoviecki and stand-up bassist James Black have expanded into an energetic combo that live often includes Max Carmichael on banjo, mandolin and flute and the great Cranston Dean on drums and mandolin, plus fiddler James Herdman in the studio.

published on 02/15/2023

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: "Dancing in Place" by Colossal Street Jam feat. Anthony Krizan

Veteran Jersey Shore rockers Colossal Street Jam will celebrate the release of their long-awaited “No Way to Live” LP with three shows this month, two of which feature Anthony Krizan, who also is featured on the track “Dancing in Place,” the Makin Waves Song of the Week.

published on 02/10/2023

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Makin Waves with Taylor Simon King: 'Crushing the Avenue'

Taylor Simon King, a celebration of the three American troubadours James Taylor, Carly Simon, and Carole King, is produced by Jersey Shore musical power couple Lisa Sherman and Franke Previte, an Oscar winner for the 1987 classic “Dirty Dancing.” Their production will be coming to Franke’s hometown of New Brunswick on March 25 with a performance at the grand New Brunswick Performing Arts Center.

published on 02/06/2023

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: "In the Night" by Project 18 featuring Dave Vargo

Project 18, featuring Monmouth County-based singer-songwriter Dave Vargo, has released a four-song EP, the opener of which, “In the Night,” is the Makin Waves Song of the Week.

published on 02/03/2023

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: "Boots of Spanish Leather" by Pat Guadagno

Jersey Shore singer-songwriter Pat Guadagno’s latest album, “1964,” is a tribute to the year that spawned such classics as Bob Dylan’s “Boots of Spanish Leather,” Pat’s cover of which is the Makin Waves Song of the Week

published on 01/27/2023

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​​​​​​​Makin Waves Song of the Week: "Keep Movin'" by The Vice Rags

It’s great to see the invaluable North Jersey indie Mint 400 Records working with more and more Asbury Park bands. Yawn Mower, Lowlight, The Extensions, and Renee Maskin are among them, but one of the first was The Vice Rags, a good-rockin’ mash-up between the early rock ‘n’ roll of Elvis Presley and Little Richard with the alternative sounds the four members played in previous bands, such as Mars Needs Women, Kid With Man Head, Dibs, Acid, The Blakes, and Readymade Breakup.

published on 01/20/2023

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Makin Waves Album of the Month: "Live in Asbury Park" by Sean Tobin

Asbury Park-based singer-songwriter Sean Tobin is the 2022 Makin Waves Male Artist of the Year and one of my Dirty Jersey Dozen independent acts who made the most waves, whose preceding LP, “Ghost of the Arcade,” was a Top 3 album that spawned two Top 10 songs on my year-end lists. And that’s just a small portion of the success he had in 2022, so what he does next has a lot to live up to. But the three-song EP “Live in Asbury Park” due on Jan. 20 is more like a souvenir from an 11-state tour that proved Sean and his band, the Boardwalk Fire, have the goods to be Asbury’s next national act. 

published on 01/16/2023

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Makin Waves Song Of The Week: "Tell That Girl To Shut Up" By The Cynz

The Cynz’s latest single, a cover of Holly and The Italians’ 1980 classic “Tell That Girl To Shut Up,” is the Makin Waves Song of the Week.

published on 01/13/2023

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Makin Waves with Colossal Street Jam: Beyond Happy to be Back

Colossal Street Jam will celebrate “No Way to Live,” their first album in four years, on Feb. 10 at the Wonder Bar in Asbury Park with a release party that also will feature the bands of album guests Anthony Krizan and Desiree Spinks

published on 01/09/2023

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: "Not Over It" by Candy Cavity

Heartache has inspired many of Asbury Park-based Candy Cavity’s songs, including their latest single, “Not Over It.” The grungy, jangly jilting that’s as bittersweet-sounding as the band’s name is the Makin Waves Song of the Week. 

published on 01/06/2023

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Talking with John Cafferty about the Beaver Brown Band: "Magic Out of Thin Air"

Longtime Asbury Park music staple John Cafferty and the Beaver Brown Band will return to New Jersey from their home state of Rhode Island to play Jan. 21 at URSB Carteret Performing Arts & Events Center. Pictured from left to right are drummer Jackie Santos, bassist Dean Cassell, saxophonist Michael “Tunes” Antunes, Cafferty, lead guitarist Gary “Guitar” Gramolini, and keyboardist Steve Burke.

published on 01/03/2023

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​​​​​​​Makin Waves Top 10 Jersey Independent Songs of 2022

Here’s a look at what I thought were the 10 best songs released in 2022 by independent New Jersey artists, plus an Apple Music playlist of the 25 songs that were considered for the list. The songs are 2022 singles and previously unreleased album tracks. 

published on 12/30/2022

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: "Evolution" by Alex Tea

The aim of Alex Tea’s Jan. 17-bound LP, “Evolution,” is to see how the veteran Jersey City reggae artist has evolved throughout the course of several singles released since 2020. 

published on 12/30/2022

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Makin Waves Top 10 2022 Jersey Indie Albums

Here’s a look at what I thought was the 10 best albums released in 2022 by independent New Jersey artists.

published on 12/29/2022

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2022 Makin Waves Dirty Jersey Dozen

Every year since the early 1990s, the Makin Waves Dirty Jersey Dozen has recognized the 12 NJ indie acts that have made the most waves.  By “made the most waves,” I mean they toured extensively in support of a superior new LP or EP that was promoted with well-received singles and professionally made videos. Along the way, the garnered a bit of national press and maybe won an award or two. The Dirty Jersey Dozen are presented in alphabetical order. So here we go …

published on 12/28/2022

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Makin Waves Song of the Year: “Even Now” by Alexander Simone & the WHODAT? Live Crew

Makin Waves Song of the Year: “Even Now” by Alexander Simone & the WHODAT? Live Crew

published on 12/23/2022

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24th Annual Makin Waves Awards

For 24 of Makin Waves’ 32 years of existence, the Makin Waves Awards have honored the New Jersey independent acts who have released the best material and made the most waves with it. Here once again is my Christmas gift to the New Jersey music scene: the 24th annual Makin Waves Awards.

published on 12/22/2022

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: "Sturdy Soul" by Helen O’Shea

Princeton-based Irish singer-songwriter Helen O’Shea’s latest single, “Sturdy Soul,” is the Makin Waves Song of the Week.

published on 12/16/2022

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Makin Waves with The Happy Fits: 2022 Makin Waves Band of the Year

Having toured Europe in support of their summer-released LP, “Under the Shade of Green,” and dropped several fantastic videos in support of it, Hunterdon County-based The Happy Fits are the 2022 Makin Waves Band of the Year.

published on 12/12/2022

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: "Here We Come A-Wassailing" by Laurie Berkner Band feat. Suzzy Roche and Lucy Wainwright Roche

Princeton-raised kindie-rocker Laurie Berkner, center, is flanked by singer-songwriter Lucy Wainwright, left, and her legendary Jersey native mom, Suzzy Roche, during the recording of “Another Laurie Berkner Christmas,” her recently released second holiday outing. The vocal trio teamed on the carol “Here We Come A-Wassailing,” the Makin Waves Song of the Week

published on 12/09/2022

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: "Solitary Waltz" by 00

Stoner-rock veteran George Pierro (Solarized, Maegashira) has a new project 00 (Double Zero) whose full-length debut album, “Volume,” on Bandcamp is a fundraiser for Forked River-based Popcorn Park Animal Refuge, where he is pictured with his children, “Brother” George and Anna. The epic six-song LP’s opening track, “Solitary Waltz,” is the Makin Waves Song of the Week.

published on 12/02/2022

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: "Elevation" by Yawn Mower

After years of releasing nationally acclaimed EPs and singles, Asbury Park indie darlings Yawn Mower are ending a fall tour in support of their Mint 400 Records full-length debut album, “To Each Their Own Coat,” on Nov. 26 at hometown venue House of Independents with homies Echo Plum, Dentist, and Surf Haven sharing the loaded local bill. The LP includes the college radio hit “Elevation,” the Makin Waves Song of the Week.

published on 11/25/2022

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: "UR My Best Friend" by Chico Romano

Chico Romano, the artist formerly known as Professor Caveman, has a new EP, “Vol. 5,” featuring a series of vignettes exploring love amidst confusion, weaving together Motown funk, bedroom pop, Tropacália, ‘60s soul, and música popular brasileira into lean, emotional songwriting.

published on 11/18/2022

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Makin Waves with The Smithereens: 'It's Love We Need Everyday'

Carteret-originated New Jersey Hall of Famers The Smithereens perform last year at the opening of URSB Carteret Performing Arts & Events Center, where they’ll return on Dec. 3 for what’s become an annual homecoming appearance.

published on 11/14/2022

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: "Forbidden Voodoo" by Anthony Krizan

“Forbidden Voodoo,” the latest single and video from Anthony Krizan’s forthcoming album, is the Makin Waves Song of the Week.

published on 11/11/2022

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: "Raise ‘Em High" by Jon Caspi & the First Gun

Off their new EP, “Raise ‘Em High & Other Delights,” Jon Caspi & the First Gun’s latest single, the record’s quasi-title track, features punk greats Jesse Malin on vocals and Dez Cadena on guitar. The raucous singalong is the Makin Waves Song of the Week.

published on 11/04/2022

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: "Whole Lotta Nothin" by Matt O'Ree Band

Matt O’Ree will celebrate the release of “Hand in Glove,” their first studio album in seven years, on Nov. 3 at Grunin Center for the Arts in Toms River. Their recent single, “Whole Lotta Nothin,” is the Makin Waves Song of the Week.

published on 10/28/2022

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: "Hey" by Colossal Street Jam

Colossal Street Jam will turn fans onto their forthcoming album, “No Way to Live,” on Oct. 26 with a special laser light show designed and synced to the LP by Novins Planetarium at Ocean County College in Toms River. The latest single, “Hey,” is the Makin Waves Song of the Week

published on 10/21/2022

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: "It’s Not Too Bad" by Bruce Tunkel

Acclaimed singer-songwriter Bruce Tunkel contributed “It’s Not Too Bad” to BlowUp Radio’s annual “Banding Together: Benefit For The Spondylitis Association of America” digital compilation. The tune also is the Makin Waves Song of the Week. 

published on 10/14/2022

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: "So Damn Happy" by Lou Panico

Asbury Park rocker Lou Panico seems to be living the title of his latest single, “So Damn Happy.” 

published on 10/07/2022

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Borough Approves Plans for Carteret Stages, a Movie Studio Component of $1 Billion Waterfront Redevelopment

(CARTERET, NJ) -- The borough planning board recently approved a preliminary site plan for Shrewsbury-based J. Bezzone Inc. to develop a 1.2 million square foot, 15-story multi-use project on a portion of the former DuPont site in the Chrome Waterfront Redevelopment Zone north of Veterans Pier and Carteret Waterfront Park. 

published on 10/03/2022

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: "All Nighter" by Natalie Farrell

Asbury Park songstress Natalie Farrell can do it all: jazz, rock, R&B, soul, Latin. But with her latest single, the sexy, slow-burning groove of “All Nighter,” she flexes her pop muscles with the help of co-writer and drummer Joshua Van Ness. 

published on 09/30/2022

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Elizabeth Winterbourne wins the Carteret Battle of the Bands

Arizona-raised, New York City-based singer-songwriter Elizabeth Winterbourne won $1,500 from the solo portion of the Carteret Battle of the Bands on Sept. 18 during the borough’s annual Charity Carnival.

published on 09/25/2022

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New York City's Babyllon wins Carteret Battle of the Bands

New York City-based funky, soulful blues-rock outfit Babyllon wins the Carteret Battle of the Bands on Sept. 18 in Carteret Park

published on 09/24/2022

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: “His Time Is Coming” by James Deely

Based on Long Beach Island for a long time and now Los Angeles, roots-rockin’ singer-songwriter James Deely will release his latest album, the 10-song “This Train Is Running Out of Track,” during the winter holidays. 

published on 09/23/2022

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Makin Waves with Alexander Simone & the Whodat? Live Crew: “Wherever the Vibes Are Needed”

Soulful singer-songwriter Alexander Simone has been laying down good vibes within the Asbury Park music scene with this delicious band, the Whodat? Live Crew, for a decade. The fruits of their hard work are paying off with such hot singles as the gospel-edged “Even Now” and the forthcoming danceable follow-up, “Long Way to Go,” both on the loving Asbury-based label Telegraph Hill Records.

published on 09/16/2022

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: "Give Yourself a Chance" by Jack Skuller

Singer-songwriter-guitarist Jack Skuller premieres at New Jersey Stage his video for the new single, “Give Yourself a Chance,” the Makin Waves Song of the Week.

published on 09/16/2022

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Talking with Robin Wilson: Blossoming to Smithereens

Longtime Gin Blossoms front man Robin Wilson has a fun side project as the part-time lead singer of the Carteret-originated New Jersey Hall of Fame act The Smithereens, a role he shares with his good friend and ‘Til I Hear from You’ collaborator Marshall Crenshaw. Given Robin’s connection to Carteret via The Smithereens, it’s fitting that Gin Blossoms also will play such other great hits as “Hey Jealousy,” “Follow You Down,” and “Found Out About You,” at the borough’s Ethnic Day on Sept. 17 in Carteret Park.

published on 09/10/2022

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: "Mister Van Gogh" by Mason Pace

As the co-founding bassist of the psycho-funk band Experiment 34, Hamilton-raised Johnny Zabe made plenty of waves, including a Makin Waves Bassist of the Year Award. 

published on 09/09/2022

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: "Check the Calendar" by Dentist

The Asbury Park fuzz-pop trio Dentist has released their fourth album, “Making a Scene,” their second for the L.A. indie Cleopatra Records.

published on 09/02/2022

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: "Ghost of the Arcade" by Sean Tobin

After some national touring this summer, Asbury Park singer-songwriter Sean Tobin and his band, the Boardwalk Fire, will rock the Asbury boards on Aug. 31 to end the the Asbury Park Live series to benefit Asbury Park Music Foundation.

published on 08/26/2022

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Makin Waves with From Good Homes: Love Our Band

It’s an honor for me to be featured so prominently in the new From Good Homes documentary, “Charlie Loves Our Band,” directed by Victor Guadagno, who also produced with the beloved Northwest Jersey band’s members: Todd Schaeffer, vocals/guitar; Patrick Fitzsimmons, drums/vocals; Brady Rymer, bass/vocals; Dan Myers, saxophones/melodica, and Jamie Coan, fiddle/mandolin.

published on 08/23/2022

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: "Strawberry Wine" by Anthony Krizan

While singer-songwriter-guitarist-producer-engineer Anthony Krizan often is busy recording other artists at his Raritan Borough-based Sonic Boom Studios, it’s been nearly six years since he released his album, “Dust and Bone.” The impressive debut LP earned the Jersey rock journeyman the 2016 Makin Waves Male Artist of the Year Award. 

published on 08/19/2022

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: “It’s So Easy” by Arlan Feiles

The charming Tex Mex-styled single, “It’s So Easy,” from the great Asbury Park singer-songwriter Arlan Feiles’ new LP, “Blame Me,” is the Makin Waves Song of the Week

published on 08/12/2022

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Soul Asylum: A Beautiful Problem

​​​​​​​Soul Asylum were part of an amazing chunk of rock music history on the Minneapolis-based indie label TwinTone Records with The Replacements, Babes in Toyland, The Jayhawks and a bunch of other great acts. Then in Majorlabelland, they went on to accomplish even more, including a Grammy for the 1993 hit “Runaway Train.”

published on 08/06/2022

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: "Wasting Time" by The Vansaders

“Wasting Time,” the latest single from The Vansaders’ brand new album, “Caught in the Light,” is the Makin Waves Song of the Week.

published on 08/05/2022

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: "I Can’t Wait Any Longer" by Mike Montrey Band

“I Can’t Wait Any Longer,” the first of three singles from Mike Montrey Band’s forthcoming album, “Searching For My Soul,” is the Makin Waves Song of the Week.

published on 07/29/2022

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: "Love You Like the First Time" by JT Bowen

Asbury Park R&B/soul legend JT Bowen’s first single, “Love You Like the First Time,” from the Arlan Feiles-produced LP, “Dig Deep,” is the Makin Waves Song of the Week.

published on 07/22/2022

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Makin Waves with Taylor Tote: Art of Solitude

​​​​​​​Makin Waves 2021 Female Artist of the Year Taylor Tote took some time to chat about her extremely personal new single, “I Like U But …” The infectious, yet heartbreaking tune examines Taylor’s love life in a way that’s as poignant as it is tongue-in-cheek.

published on 07/16/2022

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: "Root" by Connor Bracken and the Mother Leeds Band

Bluesy Asbury Park roots-rockin’ garage band Connor Bracken and the Mother Leeds Band are living up to their sound with their newest single.

published on 07/15/2022

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: "Empty Space" by Dave Vargo

Beloved Asbury Park singer-songwriter Dave Vargo recently infiltrated the United Kingdom iTune Rock Chart with the achingly, hauntingly powerful “Empty Space” from his acclaimed third independent album, “Crooked Miles.” 

published on 07/08/2022

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: “Crosstown Traffic” by Debra Devi

Off her new “Jamification Station Vol. 1” live EP, Jersey City blues-rocker Debra Devi’s blistering cover of the Jimi Hendrix classic “Crosstown Traffic” is the Makin Waves Song of the Week.

published on 07/01/2022

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: "Lucy" by Sonic Blume

Asbury Park faves Sonic Blume are on a tear dropping two videos in as many months and heading out on a summer tour in support of their 2021 full-length debut LP, “We’re Drifting Further Apart, Aren’t We.”

published on 06/24/2022

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: “Goodbye Tulsa” by Williams Honor

The Williams Honor single “Goodbye Tulsa” from their brand new album, “eX,” is the Makin Waves Song of the Week.

published on 06/17/2022

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Modern-day Merlin Rob Lake comes to Carteret on July 9th

One of the world’s most celebrated illusionists, Rob Lake’s mind-blowing act dazzles and entertains millions across network television, in Times Square, on the Vegas strip, Atlantic City, Atlantis Bahamas, and before sold-out audiences in casinos, arenas, and theaters worldwide. On July 9, he comes to URSB Carteret Performing Arts & Events Center. Make sure you get tickets for that 8 p.m. show here. And find out more about him in the following interview, as well as at roblake.com. 

published on 06/13/2022

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Makin Waves with Katie Henry: On Her Way

In the fall, North Jersey bluesy roots rocker Katie Henry will embark upon the second leg of her 2022 European tour in support of “On My Way,” her sophomore album and label debut for the German blues label Ruf Records

published on 06/12/2022

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: "Power of My Love" by Rory D’Lasnow

The Rory D’Lasnow single, “’Power of My Love,” is now a music video and the Makin Waves Song of the Week.

published on 06/10/2022

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: "That Friday Feeling" by Brady Rymer

“That Friday Feeling,” the title track single and video from the forthcoming album of Grammy-nominated kid rockers Brady Rymer and the Little Band That Could, is the Makin Waves Song of the Week.

published on 06/03/2022

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: "Broken Heart" by Amanda Rose Riley

The lyric video for “Broken Heart,” the title track of North Jersey singer-songwriter Amanda Rose Riley’s forthcoming LP, premieres at New Jersey Stage as the Makin Waves Song of the Week

published on 05/27/2022

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: “Black Sun in New Orleans” by Silent Knight

New Brunswick rapper Silent Knight’s single, “Black Sun in New Orleans,” is the Makin Waves Song of the Week.

published on 05/20/2022

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Makin Waves with Asbury Park African-American Music Project: Preserving History, Celebrating Community, Cementing Future

Around Memorial Day Weekend 1970 when I was 5 years old, my grandmother won me yet another prize at a wheel of chance on the Asbury Park Boardwalk: a copy of The Beatles’ “Abbey Road,” my first big-boy LP. A few weeks later, civil unrest broke out throughout the city, and I didn’t step foot onto the AP boardwalk for a decade!

published on 05/18/2022

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: "You Are All (...Splatter)" by America Part Two

“You Are All (…Splatter”), the first of two singles from Jersey Shore-based America Part Two’s forthcoming EP, “AP2-inverse,” is the Makin Waves Song of the Week

published on 05/13/2022

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: "Heads and Hearts" by Dave Vargo

After two impressive singles that nabbed him the 2021 Makin Waves Songwriter of the Year Award, Dave Vargo’s third album, “Crooked Miles,” is out, and it’s his best yet.

published on 05/06/2022

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Interview with Olya Fryz who will perform at Carteret PAC's Stand with Ukraine on May 15

Ukrainians around the world have been enjoying Connecticut-based Olya Fryz’s music for more than 25 years. The multi-talented vocalist-bandurist has performed throughout the U.S. and Canada at numerous festivals, interactive children’s shows and concerts, including Lincoln Center in New York City, Bloor Street Festival in Toronto, The Bushnell Theatre in Connecticut, Chicago and Rochester Ukrainian Festivals, the former Garden State Arts Center in Holmdel, and the United Nations International Citizens World Music Concert. 

published on 04/29/2022

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: "Everybody Knows the Way the Wind Blows" by Deena and Chasing Colours

“Everybody Knows the Way the Wind Blows,” a charity collaboration between singer-songwriter Deena Shoshkes of the seminal Hoboken indie band The Cucumbers and UK producer Chasing Colours, is the Makin Waves Song of the Week. 

published on 04/29/2022

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Sailing with Yächtley Crëw

Los Angeles area-based yacht rock band Yächtley Crëw have set sail on their 2022 Anchors Up Tour and will perform May 2, Sony Hall, New York City; May 5, URSB Carteret Performing Arts & Events Center, Carteret, and May 6, Tropicana Showroom, Atlantic City. Known as “The Titans of Soft Rock,” Yachtley Crew encapsulate the feel-good, chart-topping soft rock hits of the late ’70s and early ’80s. Gushy love songs, whaling saxophone solos and memorable hooks will have you unabashedly singing along and donning a captain’s hat of your own as you’re taken on a trip down memory lane.

published on 04/25/2022

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: "Sleep with Ghosts" by Reality Suite & Aurin

“Sleep with Ghosts,” a collab between female-fronted North Jersey hard rock acts Reality Suite and Aurin, is the Makin Waves Song of the Week.

published on 04/22/2022

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: "Know How to Party" by Billy Hector

“Know How to Party,” the single from legendary Jersey Shore guitarist Billy Hector’s latest album, “Rock Night in Jersey,” is the Makin Waves Song of the Week. 

published on 04/15/2022

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: "We Go On" by Bobby Mahoney

“We Go On,” the title track of Bobby Mahoney and the Seventh Son’s new EP on Asbury Park-based Telegraph Hill Records, is the Makin Waves Song of the Week.

published on 04/08/2022

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Makin Waves with Have a Good Season: "Kept the Spark Alive"

The childhood friendships at the foundation of the fun, infectious, edgy, adventurous Eatontown-based trio Have a Good Season has helped vocalist-guitarist Nic Palermo, drummer Dan Sakumoto, and bassist Dan Stattner survive and flourish with their music and stage show in the face of pandemic that crippled most bands. 

published on 04/04/2022

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: "Falling Apart" by Jackie June

Jackie June continues creating super infectious, original tunes with her latest single, “Falling Apart.”

published on 03/31/2022

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: "Psych Ward 103" by Doc Rotten

Trenton-based punk rockers Doc Rotten just released their latest LP, “Unite Resist,” via Working Class Productions. The LP’s lead single, "Psych Ward 103,” is the Makin Waves Song of the Week. 

published on 03/25/2022

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: "Nameless" by Sleepy Rye

After years of tending to other people’s music as recording engineer and session drummer at AGL Sounds studio in Cherry Hill, Ryan Hillsinger has stepped out from behind the board as singer-songwriter Sleepy Rye to release a debut EP, “A Bit Of A Non-Person.”

published on 03/18/2022

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Makin Waves with Reality Suite: Friends Throughout the World

Few Jersey bands market themselves as well as Reality Suite. Their masterful efforts have built an international following on four continents. On April 8, Reality Suite will release their first single in more than a year. “Sleep with Ghosts” is a collaboration with fellow female-fronted hard rock band Aurin.

published on 03/13/2022

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: "Something Good To Believe In" by Keith Monacchio

Keith Monacchio’s single “Something Good To Believe In" from the forthcoming LP “Under a Nightlight Sky” is the Makin Waves Song of the Week.

published on 03/11/2022

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: "We Can't Play Like Django" by Alex Radus feat. Pyrenesia

With and without the excellent gypsy jazz unit Pyrenesia, guitarist-singer-songwriter Alex Radus has been makin waves for a while now. His latest single, “We Can’t Play Like Django,” brings him together with Pyrenesia once again.

published on 03/04/2022

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Lisa Marie Is One Funny Wife & Mom

Staten Island-based, Brooklyn-bred Lisa Marie is one funny wife and mom. And her family gives her plenty to make folks laugh.

published on 02/25/2022

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: "Seconds" by Colossal Street Jam

Colossal Street Jam guitarist Sal Marra is battling cancer. His rock ‘n’ roll brethren have organized a benefit for him Feb. 27 at The Vogel at Count Basie Center in Red Bank. A video for “Seconds,” a track from an album expected to be released this summer, will be screened at the show, but New Jersey Stage has a sneak peek as the Makin Waves Song of the Week.

published on 02/25/2022

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: “From Here To There” by Andy Fediw

Kinderhook bassist Andy Fediw has released a solo album, “Unfinished Business.” The haunting steel-driven track “From Here to There” is the Makin Waves Song of the Week. 

published on 02/18/2022

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: "Samantha" by Lowlight

Lowlight’s latest single, “Samantha,” is the first to feature new lead singer John Gleason of Roadside Graves. The Mint 400 Records release is the Makin Waves Song of the Week

published on 02/11/2022

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Makin Waves with Dave Vargo: Good Tunes 'n' Hearts

​​​​​​​Late to the songwriting table, journeyman musician Dave Vargo, who once toured extensively as a sideman, has established a great local solo career in the Asbury Park area. In the midst of recording his third independent album since 2016, Dave was honored by Makin Waves as the 2021 Songwriter of the Year based on the strength of two impressive singles: the pandemic anthemic “Half Bad” and the confessional “Fault Lines.”

published on 02/07/2022

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Makin Waves Song of the Week is "Even Now" by Alexander Simone & the WHODAT? Live Crew

Asbury Park-based Alexander Simone & the WHODAT? Live Crew will rock their hometown Feb. 5 at What a Wonderful Year at the Wonder Bar and Feb. 12 at Langosta Lounge in support of their new Telegraph Hill Records single, “Even Now.”

published on 02/04/2022

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: "All Tomorrow's Parties" by The Grip Weeds

Highland Park-based power-popsters The Grip Weeds’ cover of The Velvet Underground classic “All Tomorrow's Parties,” the Makin Waves Song of the Week

published on 01/28/2022

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: “We Won’t Lose It Now” by Renee Maskin

Renee Maskin, a Makin Waves Female Artist of the Year winner, has dropped her debut solo LP, “Swimming,” on Mint 400 Records. The single, “We Won’t Lose It Now,” is the Makin Waves Song of the Week. 

published on 01/21/2022

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: Whirling Dervishes “Tattooed Republican"

Two-time Makin Waves Band of the Year Whirling Dervishes are back with a Makin Waves Song of the Week, the politically satirical “Tattooed Republican” from their new LP, “From Obscurity to Oblivion.”

published on 01/14/2022

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: “You’re So Vain” by Taylor Simon King

Taylor Simon King’s cover of Carly Simon’s Grammy Hall of Fame song “You’re So Vain” is the Makin Waves Song of the Week. See them play it live Jan. 21 at URSB Carteret Performing Arts & Events Center.

published on 01/07/2022

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Makin Waves with Taylor Simon King: Sweet Celebration

The latest production of the dynamic husband-and-wife team of Jersey Shore Broadway talent Lisa Sherman and Oscar-winning songwriter Franke Previte celebrates three iconic American troubadours: James Taylor, Carly Simon and Carole King. Taylor Simon King’s clever musical arrangements and unforgettable, carefully chosen songs take audiences through decades of the legendary singer-songwriters’ individual careers and beloved music.

published on 01/03/2022

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Makin Waves Dirty Dozen For 2021

Here’s an alphabetical look at the 12 independent New Jersey artists who I thought made the most waves in 2021. Here’s to makin waves with all of them and you in what hopefully will be a much better year than the past couple! 

published on 12/31/2021

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: “Change” by Tom Kanach

Congrats to Tom Kanach whose title track to his “Change” EP is the Makin Waves Song of the Year, thereby also makin’ it an encore Song of the Week.

published on 12/31/2021

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23rd Annual Makin Waves Awards

Makin Waves’ annual holiday gift to the New Jersey music scene returns with a fresh batch of awards for the 23rd time throughout its 33-year history. This year’s big winners are veteran Jersey Shore singer-songwriter Tom Kanach with three and Montclair-based Jewish bluegrass band Nefesh Mountain, Asbury Park jam band Dogs in a Pile, and North Jersey hard rock act Reality Suite each with two. 

published on 12/24/2021

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: “It’s Beginning to Look A Lot Like Christmas” by Taylor Tote

COVID is trying to cancel Christmas once again, but the sweet and sultry Taylor Tote and a crackerjack band will help us overcome with warm and fuzzy feeling for the holiday classic “It’s Beginning to Look A Lot Like Christmas” that will last the whole year long.

published on 12/24/2021

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas” by James Dalton

Prolific Jersey Shore blues great James Dalton media premieres his soulful cover of the Judy Garland holiday classic “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas” at New Jersey Stage.

published on 12/17/2021

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: “If” by Tom Kanach

Veteran indie-rocking singer-songwriter Tom Kanach and his crackerjack band — bassist-producer-engineer Joe Rowley, drummer Steve Buzbee, and guitarists Pete Wood and Johnny Rao are the Makin Waves Song of the Week with the new single “If.”

published on 12/10/2021

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Makin Waves with Nefesh Mountain: Makin Waves Band of the Year 2021

When the annual Makin Waves Awards are doled out around Christmas here at New Jersey Stage, the independent Montclair-based Jewish bluegrass ensemble Nefesh Mountain will be named the 2021 Band of the Year in honor of a torrent of accolades and accomplishments in the face of adversity. In a blend of old-time Judaic and Appalachian music with new originals that blend both styles, culture and heritage are woven into a beautiful, mesmerizing tapestry. The seamlessly remarkable and intoxicatingly joyous results of four acclaimed albums and several international tours make the most wayfaring stranger an instant fan.

published on 12/08/2021

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: “Get Back 2 Me Never” by Grasser

One of the latest singles from the Asbury Park-based indie trio Grasser, "Get Back 2 Me Never," is the Makin Waves Song of the Week. 

published on 12/03/2021

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: “No Way to Live” by Colossal Street Jam

In anticipation of “No Way to Live,” Colossal Street Jam’s next album early next year, the title track is the Makin Waves Song of the Week. 

published on 11/26/2021

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: “Julie the Redeemer” by The Successful Failures

On their own FDR Records, Bordentown-based The Successful Failures have released their ninth LP, “James Cotton Mather,” their third in as many years. The 12-track collection’s first single, “Julie the Redeemer,” is the Makin Waves Song of the Week. 

published on 11/19/2021

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: “Energizer” by Rockstar Racecar

“Energizer,” the fourth single from “Senior Citizens,” the just-dropped fourth album by the young North Jersey punk rock band Rockstar Racecar, is the Makin Waves Song of the Week.

published on 11/12/2021

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Makin Waves with Little Hag: ‘Brutal Is Not a Phase’

Makin Waves 2018 Female Artist of the Year Avery Mandeville continues to thrive on Hoboken-based Bar/None Records as Little Hag, which is both her stage and band names. The Jersey Shore indie songstress recently released her latest LP on Bar/None, which has worked with such legendary acts as Rage To Live, The Feelies, They Might Be Giants, Yo La Tengo, Mary Lee’s Corvette, Freedy Johnston, Richard Barone, and Shore faves The Front Bottoms. The LP, “Leash,” follows a single, EP, and compilation of previously released and unreleased tracks.

published on 11/05/2021

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: "How Sweet It Is" by Taylor Simon King

Taylor Simon King is a celebration of legendary troubadours James Taylor, Carly Simon and Carole King. Their version of “How Sweet It Is” is the Makin Waves Song of the Week.

published on 11/05/2021

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: “Ding! Dong! Fill My Plastic Pumpkin!” by Mike Chick

Asbury indie great Mike Chick of Yawn Mower has created an instant Halloween classic, “Ding! Dong! Fill My Plastic Pumpkin!”

published on 10/29/2021

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: "Public Restrooms Suck!" by Houston & the Dirty Rats

Hard-working Phillipsburg-based punk trio Houston & the Dirty Rats are back on the road in support of their latest video for “Public Restrooms Suck!” off their 2020 EP, “Songs! From the Bathroom Stall?”

published on 10/22/2021

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: “Out of Body” by Jake Ryan

Young singer-songwriter Jake Ryan premieres his latest video for the pop-edelic single, “Out of Body,” with New Jersey Stage as the Makin Waves Song of the Week

published on 10/15/2021

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Makin Waves with Dogs in a Pile: Nothin’ Left to Do, But Smile …

Asbury Park jam band Dogs in a Pile are returning home Oct. 15 to headline The Stone Pony with two sets, including several tunes from the recent debut album, “Not Your Average Beagle.”

published on 10/12/2021

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: “Fault Lines” by Dave Vargo

At the end of the month, Jersey Shore singer-songwriter Dave Vargo will release “Fault Lines,” the second single from his forthcoming third album. 

published on 10/08/2021

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: “Let's Get Our Funk On” by Freakwincey

Earlier this year, the Plainfield-originated P-Funk-inspired band Freakwincey released what may be their best song, the Kool & the Gang-like fun of “Let's Get Our Funk On.”

published on 10/01/2021

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: “My Disappearing Act” by Jack Skuller

Young veteran North Jersey rocker Jack Skuller premieres the video for the title track of his new five-song EP, “My Disappearing Act,” with New Jersey Stage. 

published on 09/24/2021

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: “Modern Girl” by The Clydes

“Modern Girl” is The Clydes’ second single from an album the New Brunswick-based band will release next year on Jersey indie Mint 400 Records.  As the Makin Waves Song of the Week, the song also can be heard between 6 and 8 p.m. on Sept. 17 on “Radio Jersey” at ThePenguinRocks.com. 

published on 09/17/2021

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Makin Waves with The Foes of Fern: 'So Much Fun'

Holmdel-raised Matt “Fern” Fernicola and his creative partner in crime, Joe “Pom” Pomarico have been a fixture on the Asbury Park music scene since 2015 with the Berklee College of Music-originated Airacuda, and then Pom’s brainchild, Telegraph Hill Records. A veteran guitarist of such acts as The Burns, Bar/None recording artist Little Hag (aka former Telegraph act Avery Mandeville), and current Telegraph acts Natalie Farrell and Lake Champagne, Fern also now fronts his own mammoth, contagiously fun band The Foes of Fern.

published on 09/16/2021

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: “Strawberry” by Taylor Tote

Asbury Park singer-songwriter Taylor Tote’s steady stream of monthly singles and videos continues with her most recent release, “Strawberry.” Pulling elements from house, hip hop, electronica and R&B, the dance track is the Makin Waves Song of the Week. 

published on 09/10/2021

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: “Brother Brother” by A Carousel Moon

Union City-based jazzy, electronic indie dance-pop duo A Carousel Moon have released their second EP on Mint 400 Records since May and are premiering its new video here at New Jersey Stage.

published on 09/03/2021

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: “Love Is for the Making” by Lisa Bouchelle

Veteran Jersey songstress Lisa Bouchelle’s Sony Orchard debut LP, “Jump In,” drops Aug. 27 with a second video, “Love Is for the Making,” which makes its media premiere here at New Jersey Stage.

published on 08/27/2021

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: “Close 2 U” by Ser Xerri

​​​​​​​After a pre-pandemic year that included touring the U.S. as guitarist for Remember Jones and having his song, “Sympathetic Response,” placed on Investigation Discovery’s nationally televised “Primal Instinct,” Ser Xerri (pronounced “Sir Sherry”) has released his new single, “Close 2 U.” 

published on 08/20/2021

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: “The Bench at the Top of the World” by Amanda Rose Riley

For her latest album, the eight-song “The Fine Print,” singer-songwriter Amanda Rose Riley expanded her acoustic guitar palette to an include electric six string, as well drum and bass programming. 

published on 08/13/2021

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Makin Waves with Tom Kanach: Fixing the Damage

The only live music act on the bill for the DJ-centric “Welcome Home Matt Pinfield” on Aug. 14 at The Saint in Asbury Park, Tom Kanach is a deeply talented and equally respected veteran rocker whose potpourri of power pop, punk and art rock would make The Beatles, The Who, The Ramones, and Cheap Trick proud, and their fans instant appreciators of the Jersey Shore singer-songwriter-guitarist. 

published on 08/09/2021

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: "Half Bad" by Dave Vargo

Asbury Park singer-songwriter Dave Vargo soon plans to follow his latest single, “Half Bad,” with another tease to his third album due in fall. That will follow the 2016 debut LP, “Burning Through,” and 2019’s “Spaces in Between.” 

published on 08/06/2021

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: “House Full of Memories” by James Deely

Big America Records has released longtime Jersey Shore rocker James Deely’s latest single, “House Full of Memories.” 

published on 07/30/2021

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Makin Waves with Jerry Ryan: Talkin’ Elephants, Rockin’ Autism

South Jersey indie rock impresario Jerry Ryan has been a tsunami of Makin Waves for more than a decade, and for that, he won the 2020 Makin Waves Tsunami Award for being the year’s biggest behind-the-scenes mover and shaker. Refusing to be stopped by the goddamn pandemic, Jerry kept on keepin’ on by raising more than $21,000 with virtual versions of his annual Elephants for Autism Festival. Inspired by raising his autistic son, Jeremy, as a single parent, the festival supports the families of children and young adults with autism. 

published on 07/23/2021

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: "Drift Away" by Tom Kanach Band

Tom Kanach Band includes Pete Wood, Tom Kanach, Steve Buzbee, and Joe Rowley. They will return to Asbury on Aug. 14 at The Saint to play “Welcome Home Matt Pinfield,” a long-awaited homecoming for the East Brunswick music industry icon.

published on 07/23/2021

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: "Lay It on the Line" by Ferocious Designs

Ferocious Designs, the project of Central Jersey-based singer-songwriter Brian Kelley, pictured, has dropped a video for the anthemic Peter Gabriel-like call to social justice, “Lay It on the Line,” in anticipation of a just-released five-song debut EP.

published on 07/16/2021

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: “How Do You Want Me?” by Blaise

Asbury Park artist Blaise has released his third single and video, “How Do You Want Me?”, from his third solo album, “Silver Linings Only.” Like several of its predecessors, the seven-minute clip is a short film featuring Blaise as both star and soundtrack.

published on 07/09/2021

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: "Seasick" by Turnpike Gates

Turnpike Gates have just released a five-song EP, “City In Heat,” produced by The Bouncing Souls’ Pete Steinkopf. The Jersey City-based act has treated us to a video for the first single, the Killers-meets-Social Distortion-like “Seasick,” which can be viewed below. 

published on 07/02/2021

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: “Binary World” by Hot4Robot

Delaware Valley alt-rockers  Hot4Robot have released the first video from their recently dropped self-titled debut album. The trippy clip for the LP’s second single, “Binary World,” makes its media debut here in Makin Waves at New Jersey Stage.

published on 06/25/2021

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Makin Waves with the dt’s: Indie Pop Addiction

The dt’s are the new name of the duo featuring for Vaughns guitarist Dave Cacciatore and bassist Tom Losito. They are premiering their debut single, “You with Me,” in Makin Waves at New Jersey Stage.

published on 06/11/2021

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Makin Waves with Pat Guadagno: What About Bob?

Well-traveled troubadour Pat Guadagno has been a fixture on the Jersey Shore music scene for many glistening moons. For nearly as long, the saloon slinger has been paying annual birthday tribute to Nobel Prize-winning rock bard Bob Dylan with annual festival at the Count Basie Theatre.

published on 05/07/2021

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Laurie Berkner: From Jersey Indie Rocker to Global Kindie Rocker

Princeton-raised, New York City-based Laurie Berkner is known throughout the world as a beloved kindie rocker of independent children’s music. She’s also an accomplished children’s author and the composer of an off-Broadway.

published on 04/16/2021

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Makin Waves with David Ross Lawn: The Sounds of Solitude

Asbury Park composer-pianist David Ross Lawn’s latest EP, “Nocturnes,” is a four-song dive into the silence of solitude to find light within the darkness of the COVID-19 pandemic

published on 03/19/2021

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Makin Waves with Brian Erickson: Birds of Freedom

Not about to be stopped by a raging pandemic, Asbury Park singer-songwrtier-media personality Brian Erickson of The Extensions has released “Origami Birds,” his second solo record in only five months. The seven-song outing on North Jersey-based Mint 400 Records was recorded a decade ago while he was still in the late, great Paper Jets.

published on 02/19/2021

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Makin Waves with Fairmont: Making it out of Jersey alive

Charter Mint 400 recording act Fairmont is celebrating their 20th anniversary this year in the wake of their 11th album, “Liminal Spaces.”

published on 01/22/2021

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22nd Annual Makin Waves Awards

For 22 years, the Makin Waves Awards have honored the best and brightest unsigned and indie music acts of the Jersey scene. While this year was weird, wacky, and heart wrenching, 2020 was as rich ‘n’ fertile with homegrown Garden State music talent as ever. This year’s multiple winners were Candy Cavity and The Foes of Fern, who each won two Makin Waves Awards. Here’s to all the winners, and to you for supporting the New Jersey music scene when it needs you more than ever.

published on 12/24/2020

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Makin Waves with The Outcrops: Band of the Year

Northwest Jersey jam ‘n’ groove band The Outcrops are the 22nd annual Makin Waves Band of the Year. Makin Waves premieres their new video for “Isolation Blues” at NewJerseyStage.com.

published on 12/24/2020

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Makin Waves Dirty Jersey Dozen 2020

This very odd and evil year plagued the world with deadly and crippling challenges against which the New Jersey music scene illustrated the Garden State’s legendary resilience. In honor of that resilience, the annual Makin Waves Dirty Jersey Dozen is not so much about the acts who made the most waves this year but those who progressed the most despite the widespread panic and pandemonium of the pandemic and the resulting restrictions and consequent constrictions, especially within the music scene.

published on 12/24/2020

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: "Not for Sale" by Blaise

“Not for Sale” is a new single by Blaise co-written with and produced by former Deal Casino frontman Joe Parella and video directed by sought-after videographer Kris Khunachak. Makin Waves premieres the clip at New Jersey Stage having done the same with the single earlier in the week on “Radio Jersey” at The Penguin Rocks.

published on 12/18/2020

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Makin Waves Record of the Week: "Simple Times" by MattyPasq

Since 2014, Jersey Shore rapper MattyPasq has kept busy releasing dozens of singles, EPs, and LPs as a solo artist and a member of the trio TrapBang. This summer, he released his latest solo EP, “Simple Times,” and I’m glad I finally got to catch up with it. Fans of the great Jersey City trip-hop duo P.M. Dawn will dig the four-song rap-adelic collection, which was expertly produced by Fresno beat master Kasino Kam.

published on 12/18/2020

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: “Invisible” by Ian Bamberger

Brooklyn-based, Jersey-raised singer-songwriter-guitarist Ian Bamberger has released a new single, “Invisible,” which was written during and inspired by the pandemic.

published on 12/10/2020

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Makin Waves Record of the Week: "In Kayfabe” by Tony Appleseed

Jersey Shore studio wizard Tony Appleseed’s latest LP, “In Kayfabe” is a dancedelic dream.

published on 12/10/2020

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: "Miss Take" by Tom Kanach

Veteran Jersey Shore rocker Tom Kanach has released “Miss Take,” the second single from his forthcoming EP, “Change,” and Makin Waves premieres the video for the clip at New Jersey Stage.

published on 12/04/2020

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Makin Waves Record of the Week: "It's real (I knew it)" by Foxanne

New Jersey-raised, Brooklyn-based singer-songwriter Foxanne has been doing both scenes proud for some time with her emotional mix of alt-rock, acoustic tunes, and Bowiesque drama. Her full-length debut album, “It’s real (I knew it),” raises the bar, especially in regard to her dynamic, enthralling vocals. A followup to the 2018 debut EP, “Halfling,” the plantively passionate 13-song LP opens and closes with an “Intro” and an “Outro.” Let’s start with “Intro,” a brief but spooky ‘n’ spacey exploration of trying to breathe within the darkest depths of emotion. Like a Bowie track, the opener’s warbling organ sound gets slammed by the ramped-up second track, “Doing It All,” a bass heavy tune that features one of hte best elements of the tour de force gymnastics Foxanned expresses throughout the album.  

published on 12/04/2020

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Makin Waves Top NJ Indie Albums of the Year

Here’s a look at the 10 best independent New Jersey LPs & EPs to cross my desk in what surprisingly was a great year for recorded music from the Garden State. There’s also 10 honorable mentions of additional great releases. All are self-released unless indicated by an indie label. 

published on 11/26/2020

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Makin Waves Top NJ Indie Songs of the Year

Here’s a look at the 10 best independent New Jersey songs to cross my desk in what surprisingly was a great year for record music from the Garden State. All are self-released unless indicated by an indie label. 

published on 11/26/2020

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: "If Santa Claus Were President" by The New Bardots

​​​​​​​Three-fifths of Central Jersey-based The New Bardots have been playing together since the 1970s in such bands as Rockids, Oliver’s Twist, and Oliver Wylde, so it’s no surprise that they wrote and recorded their satirical new holiday song, “If Santa Claus Was President,” within days of the recent election. The band’s maiden voyage on the Italian indie I Couchie Records, the funny, heartfelt tune is the Makin Waves Song of the Week, and its video premieres here.

published on 11/19/2020

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Makin Waves Record of the Week: "Liminal Spaces" by Fairmont

​​​​​​​Charter Mint 400 recording act Fairmont are celebrating their 20th anniversary together with their 11th album, "Liminal Spaces." Founding singer-songwriter-guitarist-producer-videographer-graphic artist Neil Sabatino’s multi-hyphenated talents also include founder of the label. And what a great job he does all around on behalf of the North Jersey indie’s many bands and his bandmates. They are longtime collaborator and multi-instrumentalist Christian Kisala, who appears on a majority of the band’s catalog; keyboarist Lisa Grabinski (Dharma Plums), who’s appearing on her second Fairmont album; bassist Matt Cheplic (The Bitter Chills, Splendid Engine) on his third, and new guitarist Evan Pope (The Maravines).

published on 11/19/2020

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: "Someone Is Waiting" by Helen O'Shea

Helen O’Shea has followed her Grammy-considered single and video, “Unbecoming,” with the new single “Someone Is Waiting.” Both will be featured on a 2021 EP produced by two-time Grammy-winner Marc Swersky.

published on 11/12/2020

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Makin Waves Record of the Week: #AlbumNumberFiveSessions by Matt Cook

Asbury Park singer-songwriter Matt Cook’s latest LP “#AlbumNumberFiveSessions” features a who’s who of the New Jersey scene, including Nick Ryan, Brian Erickson, Levy Okun, Deirdre Forrest, Bryan Henson, Dano, and SOF.

published on 11/12/2020

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: "Carmelita" by Tom Foti

North Jersey-bred, Houston-based singer-songwriter Tom Foti premieres the video for his Latin-spiced rocker “Carmelita” in Makin Waves at New Jersey Stage.

published on 11/05/2020

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Makin Waves Record of the Week: "Velvet Noir /// Stripped" by Blaise & David Ross Lawn

David Ross Lawn, left, and Blaise, right, have made one of the best Jersey records of the year with their “Velvet Noir /// Stripped” reimagining of the latter’s 2018 sophomore LP.

published on 11/05/2020

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: "Time" by Emibyrd

Singer-songwriter-harpist Emibyrd premieres the self-produced video for “Time” with Makin Waves at New Jersey Stage

published on 10/30/2020

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Makin Waves Record of the Week: "Ruminations From Barrydise During an Apocalypse" by Rick Barry

​​​​​​​John Lennon Songwriting Contest winner Rick Barry delivers another great batch of songs with the all-star home recordings of “Ruminations From Barrydise During an Apocalypse,” featuring several fellow Asbury Park music scenesters.

published on 10/30/2020

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: "Sleep Walking" by Mike Chick

Mike Chick of the Asbury Park two-piece Yawn Mower has released a solo double single, “Sleep Walking” and “Call Up the Doctor,” on North Jersey-based Mint 400 Records.

published on 10/22/2020

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Makin Waves Record of the Week: "Last Ride" by Vessel of Light

North Jersey doom rockers Vessel of Light return with their fourth album in only three years: the Nomadic Eel Records debut, “Last Ride,” an Alice in Chains-inspired,  Black Sabbath-saturated exploration of violent crime and lost innocence.

published on 10/22/2020

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: "Home" by C.R. and the Nones

Jersey City-based C.R. and the Nones’ third single, “Home,” precedes the Nov. 6 release of their debut LP, “Living in Fear,” on the New York City indie Favorite Friend Records. Pictured is frontman Chris Gennone, who released five albums with his previous band, C.R. and the Degenerates.

published on 10/16/2020

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Makin Waves Record of the Week: "American Patriot" and "Us" by Bruce Tunkel

Prolific Central Jersey singer-songwriter Bruce Tunkel has released two records since late summer, an LP entitled “Us” and the new EP, “American Patriot.”

published on 10/16/2020

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: "Opportunity" by Foxanne

​​​​​​​Jersey-raised, Brooklyn-based singer-songwriter Foxanne premieres with Makin Waves and New Jersey Stage her latest video for “Opportunity,” her heartbreaking tribute to the lost Mars Rover.

published on 10/09/2020

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Makin Waves Record of the Week: "Nightbird Motel" by Connor Bracken and the Mother Leeds Band

​​​​​​​After building a strong following with their Strokes-esque strut and George Thorogood-like blues ‘n’ boogie crunch behind the 2016 debut LP, “The Light in the Day,” Asbury Park-based Connor Bracken and the Mother Leeds Band empicably have coalesced and solidified that sound and their lineup with a who’s who of the Jersey music scene. Complimenting Connor’s lead vocals and guitar and longtime drummer Rich Seyffart’s mighty chops are bassist Chris Dubrow (The Burns, Tara Dente, Avery Mandeville) and guitarist Jeff Linden, who front his own band, the Black Spot Society, and has played in a couple with his older brother, Jack.

published on 10/09/2020

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Makin Waves with Well Wisher: Indie Intimacy

One of the most supportive national outlets of independent music is National Public Radio (NPR). When a Jersey band gets NPR exposure, it’s a big deal, and that happened this summer for the awesome Asbury Park outfit Well Wisher led by the multi-hyphenated talent of Natalie Newbold, formerly of the Makin Waves Award-winning band dollys. With her dollys band mate Erik Kase Romero, two-time winner of the Makin Waves Producer of the Year Award, Natalie recorded six acoustic songs as three singles, releasing them on Well Wisher’s Richmond-based label, 3161 Records, which dropped the band’s acclaimed debut album, “This Is Fine,” in 2018. NPR added the beautiful “Halfway Heart” to its New Music Friday Spotify playlist in early September. 

published on 10/05/2020

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: "Creamsicle Sun" by Broken Darling

Mark Bodino has been a veteran of the Central Jersey music scene for many years. I remember writing about him during Makin Waves’ first run in the Courier News, which means it had to be before 2005. Six years later, he formed Broken Darling, a harmonic female-fronted folk-rock outfit whose dreamy new anthemic single, “Creamsicle Sun,” is the Makin Waves Song of the Week.

published on 10/01/2020

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Makin Waves Record of the Week: "Scorpio" by Keith Beck

For the second time in as many weeks, I’m reviewing an album written, performed, record and produced by a single artist: New Brunswick-based Keith Beck’s latest LP, “Scorpio.” The 12-song collection is Keith’s sixth album since 2004 on Central Jersey-based Lump’N’Loaf Records, but first without his band, Zingman Bird. Given the diversity of music styles and layers of 24 tracks, especially the harmonies and drums, it’s hard at time to believe “Scorpio” is all one guy recording in his house.

published on 10/01/2020

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: "Carpe Diem" by The Foes of Fern

Asbury Park-based The Foes of Fern premiere in Makin Waves the video for the title track of their “Carpe Diem” debut LP on Telegraph Hill Records. It is the LP’s sixth clip and the third in a storytelling series lensed by Andrea Morgan, Bart Lentini and Rob Ciano and starring Ava Serene Portman and namesake band leader Matt “Fern” Fernicola.

published on 09/24/2020

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Makin Waves Record of the Week: "In the Middle of Hope" by Mike Montrey Band

In my opinion, two of the most unsung heroes of rock ‘n’ roll are Gram Parsons & Emmylou Harris, both of whom should be a lot larger than life than they are. That’s why it warms my musical heart to hear Mike Montrey and his sweetheart of the rodeo, Jen Augustine, sing duets because their soulful, pretty, bittersweet harmonies remind me so much of Gram & Emmylou. 

published on 09/24/2020

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Record Roundup with The Milwaukees & Morningside Lane

Bob Makin reviews the latest releases from The Milwaukees and Morningside Lane in this month's Makin Waves Record Roundup.

published on 09/22/2020

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: "Never Stay" by Brianna Musco

North Jersey-based singer-songwriter Brianna Musco has followed her international debut, “Forever,” with “Never Stay,” an intense but infectious tune about a toxic and abusive relationship that is the Makin Waves Song of the Week. Here’s the media premiere of the single

published on 09/17/2020

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Makin Waves Record of the Week: "Little Secrets" by Brian Erickson

After a long gap in recordings as a member of The Paper Jets, Asbury Park singer-songwriter Brian Erickson has released his third album in as many years with his compelling and completely self-produced and -performed solo debut LP, “Little Secrets,” on Mint 400 Records.

published on 09/17/2020

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Makin Waves with The Happy Fits: Contagious Joy

Throughout 40 years covering the local music scene, it’s always been fun to watch a band grow up and mature into a really great act, such as From Good Homes and The Bouncing Souls. I’m happy to add The Happy Fits among them, whose brand-new sophomore LP, “What Could Be Better” lives up to its title by being the charming Clinton-based cello-driven indie-pop trio’s best work yet. While silly and fun as ever as far as videos and what eventually will be a return to live shows, the band demonstrates a maturation with their songwriting and playing that adds greater dimension to their music. While  classically trained singer-songwriter-cellist Calvin Langman’s chops are huge, his playing and songwriting on “What Could Be Better” is more dynamic than on 2018’s “Concentrate” and “Awfully Apeelin’,” which gives guitarist-vocalist Ross Monteith and drummer Luke Davis a greater sonic canvas. 

published on 09/16/2020

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: "Falling Out of Love Song" by Mike Daly & the Planets

Having kicked cancer’s butt twice, Mike Daly continues to write power-pop in the tradition of The Beatles, Elvis Costello, and The Smithereens, which he has done since the early 1990s. His latest single with his North Jersey-based band, The Planets, is “Falling Out of Love Song,” the Makin Waves Song of the Week, which made its radio premiere earlier this week on “Radio Jersey” and makes its media premiere right here, right now

published on 09/10/2020

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Makin Waves Record of the Week: "Carpe Diem" by The Foes of Fern

One of New Jersey’s consummate guitarists in such bands as Airacuda, The Burns, and Avery Mandeville & the Man Devils, Matt Fernicola recently dropped his debut LP as the leader and singer-songwriter of his own band, the massive Foes of Fern. Featuring more than 50 performers, the Foes’ 11-song “Carpe Diem” -- on producer (and Fern Airacuda bandmate) Joe “Pom” Pomarico’s Telegraph Hill Records -- is a quirky but passionate collection of odd tales and luny laments.

published on 09/10/2020

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: “Never Stray” by Eliza Neals

Jersey City-based Detroit-raised blues-rocker Eliza Neals premieres the video for “Never Stray” from her latest LP, “Black Crow Moan,” with Makin Waves.

published on 09/03/2020

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Makin Waves Record of the Week: “These Are Our Years” by Morningside Lane

Fans of latter-day Springsteen Americana heartland rock, the anthemic edge of U2, and Bon Jovi stadium pop will enjoy what Asbury Park-based Morningside Lane is calling their debut album, “These Are Our Years.” That is true for drummer Brian Morelli, lead guitarist Brandon Broderick, and bassist Frankie P., who only have been in the band since April 2019. But singer-songwriter-guitarist Marc Del Giudice formed the band in 2009 in Fort Lee, and with different lineups, released four EPs, as well as an LP that was recorded in England.

published on 09/03/2020

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: "Without My Baby" by Keith Beck

New Brunswick-based Lump’N’Loaf recording artist Keith Beck has released “Without My Baby,” the first single from his forthcoming LP, “Scorpio.”

published on 08/27/2020

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Makin Waves Record of the Week: "The Calling" by The Milwaukees

Jersey City-based The Milwaukees long-awaited sixth LP, “The Calling,” was worth the wait. The Mint 400 Records release is one of the best Jersey albums of the year

published on 08/27/2020

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Record Roundup with Ragged Lines, The Successful Failures, and 4:44

Bob Makin takes a look at the latest releases by Ragged Lines, The Successful Failures, and 4:44 in this month's Makin Waves Record Roundup.

published on 08/23/2020

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: "Victoria" by Mike Montrey Band

Mike Montrey Band premiere with Makin Waves their second video, “Victoria,” from their forthcoming six-song EP, “In the Middle of Hope.”

published on 08/20/2020

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Makin Waves Record of the Week: "What Could Be Better" by The Happy Fits

The popular Clinton-based indie-pop trio The Happy Fits drop their sophomore LP, “What Could Be Better,” on Aug. 28, but Makin Waves has a review now.

published on 08/20/2020

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Makin Waves with Frank Lombardi: Keep Going

Like all artists trying to move forward during a global pandemic, Asbury Park Music Award-winning singer-songwriter Frank Lombardi, the 2019 Makin Waves Male Artist of the Year, aims to keep going. But he admits that no reasonably sane person would be an artist at this point in history.

published on 08/16/2020

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: "Bye Bye Love" by Jaded Past

Central Jersey rockers Jaded Past's continue a stream of singles with the release of their cover of The Cars’ 1978 classic, “Bye Bye Love,” the Makin Waves Song of the Week. The single is the band's fifth in a little more than a year following 2016's sophomore LP, "Believe," on Melodic Rock Records and a 2012 self-titled, self-released full-length debut.

published on 08/13/2020

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Makin Waves Record of the Week: "Hills & Valleys" by Ragged Lines

Asbury Park trio Ragged Lines have returned with their best work yet: a 10-song debut full-length, “Hills & Valleys,” produced by the great Erik Case Romero.

published on 08/13/2020

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: “Yummy Yummy Yummy” by The New Bardots

The New Bardots have released a video for their cover of Ohio Express’ “Yummy Yummy Yummy” off their new EP, “Already Been Chewed (A Return to Bubblegum).”

published on 08/06/2020

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Makin Waves Record of the Week: Pragmatic Sanction by Disciples of Verity

The New Jersey/New York metal supergroup Disciples of Verity features members of Living Colour, God Forbid, Negative Sky and Sekond Skyn.

published on 08/06/2020

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: "Under the Notion" by Morningside Lane

In support of their forthcoming debut LP, “These Are Our Years,” Jersey alt-rockers Morningside Lane have released the album’s second single, “Under the Notion,” the Makin Waves Song of the Week.

published on 07/30/2020

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Makin Waves Record of the Week: "In Context" by 4:44

​​​​​​​South Jersey singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist 4:44 wrote what he had planned to be his debut album while still in high school around 2012, but he didn’t finish recording it until recently. In the meantime, he has self-produced a stylistically eclectic catalog of seven albums, each focused on a different genre. With the new eighth outing, “In Context,” he explores acoustic pop, playing all the instruments and producing all the tracks, as he has with his subsequent recordings. 

published on 07/30/2020

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: "Katie's Shoes" by The BAR

Garden State power-pop greats Jim Babjak of The Smithereens and Kurt Reil of The Grip Weeds formed a band with Metuchen-based singer-songwriter Danny Adlerman, center, called The BAR. “Katie’s Shoes,” the first single from a forthcoming self-titled album, is the Makin Waves Song of the Week.

published on 07/24/2020

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Makin Waves Record of the Week: "Pack Up Your Shadows" by The Successful Failures

In less than a year from their last LP, Trenton-based The Successful Failures return with a new nine-song collection, “Pack Up Your Shadows.”

published on 07/24/2020

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Makin Waves Record of the Week: "Magnolia Street" by Fake Pockets

Asbury Park indie-popsters Fake Pockets have a sweet new EP, “Magnolia Street,” on North Jersey-based Mint 400 Records

published on 07/16/2020

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: "Real Girl" by Cowbell Superstar

Central Jersey/Eastern PA-based glam-punk rockers Cowbell Superstar have dropped their self-titled seven-song debut EP featuring the single, “Real Girl,” the Makin Waves Song of the Week.

published on 07/16/2020

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Makin Waves Record of the Week: “Return of the Lentils” by Yawn Mower

Asbury Park-based two-piece Yawn Mower’s “Return of the Lentils” marks their fifth release by North Jersey indie Mint 400 Records

published on 07/10/2020

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: "Spirit of Youth" by Mike Montrey Band

Mike Montrey Band premiere “Spirit of Youth,” their first single and video from their forthcoming EP, “In the Middle of Hope.”

published on 07/10/2020

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Makin Waves with Houston & the Dirty Rats: Rockin’ the Dirty Jerz

Despite having to put a world tour on hold, the Phillipsburg-based punk trio Houston & the Dirty Rats have had great success with their new digital and 7-inch EP, “Songs? From the Bathroom Stall!” 

published on 07/03/2020

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Makin Waves Record of the Week: “Demos for a Difference” by various artists

Demos for a Difference is a massive digital project that features nearly 200 tracks that will benefit the NAACP Legal Defense and Educational Fund, which aims to fill the void of social justice within the Black community caused by racism, especially a racially biased criminal justice system. The collection exclusively is available on Bandcamp, which waived its revenue share on the day of the July 3 release. 

published on 07/03/2020

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: "Anew" by The Beagles

While waiting to return to the studio, the Lawrenceville-based pop-rock band The Beagles have released six socially distanced videos lensed by award-winning director Scott Glazer. One of them, "Anew," is the Makin Waves Song of the Week and a video premiere.

published on 07/03/2020

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Makin Waves Record of the Week: "Ghost Ship" by 40 Pound Hound

The eclectic Jersey Shore band 40 Pound Hound, featuring former members of Dirge, Black Nasa and The Atomic Bitchwax, flirt with stoner rock and grunge with a hefty helping of classic rock. Their four-song debut EP, “Ghost Ship,” stylistically ranges from Peter Green’s original version of Fleetwood Mac to Creedence Clearwater Revival to Three Dog Night and more.

published on 06/26/2020

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: "Cut, Burn, Bruise" by Reality Suite

Reality Suite have released a five-song maxi single with a live version of the song “Cut, Burn, Bruise,” which also is the camera-friendly band’s latest video.

published on 06/26/2020

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Record Roundup with Sonofdov, Houston & the Dirty Rats, and Don Ryan & Blank Canvas

Morris County-based Sonofdov, aka Dennis King, not only has won awards for songcraft from the New Jersey Folk Festival and the International Songwriting Competition, he’s also prolific. His five-song EP “Battle Lines” is an immediate follow-up to the late 2019 LP, “Towers,” which was featured in New Jersey Stage upon release. Both are on the North Jersey indie Mint 400 Records, also home to Fairmont, The Extensions, Don Ryan, The Milwaukees, The Brixton Riot, The Clydes and more.  

published on 06/23/2020

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Makin Waves Record of the Week: "That’s Why We’re Running Away" by Roadside Graves

Don Giovanni recording act Roadside Graves return with the somber song cycle “That’s Why We’re Running Away,” their first studio collection of new work in five years. 

published on 06/19/2020

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: “Pacific AM” by Christian Sparacio

Marlboro-raised singer-songwriter Christian Sparacio’s latest single, “Pacific AM,” is the Makin Waves Song of the Week.

published on 06/18/2020

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: “Another Unfinished Novel” by Brian Erickson

Asbury Park singer-songwriter Brian Erickson is no stranger to releasing records. After a nice catalog with his late, great band The Paper Jets, he released the debut EP of his new band, The Extensions, last year on Mint 400 Records, also the home of his pals in Dave Mooney and The Viewers Like You, The Clydes and Fake Pockets. But in a decade-plus as a front man, Brian never has released a solo outing. 

published on 06/12/2020

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Makin Waves Record of the Week: "Warwalking, Pt. 1" by Don Ryan & The Blank Canvas Movement

Don Ryan is a North Jersey singer-songwriter whose compositions are delectable cocktails of ageless beauty and gritty discord in a hypnotizing blend of classic Americana and gypsy jazz with a more modern, psychedelic-folk sound. His long-awaited Mint 400 Records LP, “Warwalking, Pt. 1,” follows the 2013 EP, “Live in Studio,” and an epic 2011 debut LP, “Tangle Town.” 

published on 06/12/2020

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Makin Waves with Stella Mrowicki: Contagious Courage

South Jersey singer-songwriter Stella Mrowicki has scored again with an amazing EP entitled “Pine Trees and Wildflowers,” a five-song follow-up to last year’s brilliant self-titled debut. 

published on 06/05/2020

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Makin Waves Record of the Week: “Songs! From the Bathroom Stall?” by Houston & the Dirty Rats

Phillipsburg-based punk trio Houston & the Dirty Rats are the Dirty Jerz's hardest-working band, having played 100 shows in 100 days last year throughout the U.S. and parts of Canada. To promote the new EP, “Songs! From Bathroom Stall?," the band’s latest single, "The Lying Game," was made into a video from that tour that captures the adventurous spirit of the band and the razor edge but tongue-in-cheek fun they bring to the song. 

published on 06/05/2020

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: "The State I’m In” by Lost Romance

Culled from their new LP, “Strum It Again,” Central Jersey-based Lost Romance premiere their video for the latest single, “The State I’m In,” which is the Makin Waves Song of the Week here, on ThePenguinRocks.com and its “Radio Jersey” show.

published on 06/05/2020

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Makin Waves Record Of The Week: “Battle Lines” By Sonofdov

Within less than a year, prolific award-winning Morris County-based alt-folk singer-songwriter Sonofdov has followed his Mint 400 Records label debut LP, “Towers,” with an EP, “Battle Lines,” for the North Jersey indie.

published on 05/28/2020

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Record Roundup with Brian Fallon, Debra Devi, Dinosaur Eyelids, and Gooch & the Motion

Bob Makin takes a look at the latest releases by Brian Fallon, Debra Devi, Dinosaur Eyelids, and Gooch & the Motion in this month's Record Roundup.

published on 05/25/2020

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: "California" by Cook Thugless

New Brunswick-originated jazzadelic rap act Cook Thugless premiere their latest video, “California,” which chronicles their love of their new state

published on 05/25/2020

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Makin Waves Record of the Week: "Pine Trees and Wildflowers" by Stella Mrowicki

Less than two weeks before graduating from Rowan University with a degree in music technology, Jersey Shore singer-songwriter Stella Mrowicki self-released her EP, “Pine Trees and Wildflowers,” a follow-up to last year’s self-titled debut.   

published on 05/21/2020

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Makin Waves Song of the Week: "I Finally Feel Alive" by Murdock & Jack Blerry

Jersey City rapper Murdock and childhood friend Jack Blerry have collabed on the new album, “I Finally Feel Alive,” the title track to which is the Makin Waves Song of the Week making its video premiere here.

published on 05/20/2020

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Makin Waves Scene Report with Telegraph Hill Records, Iguana Music Concert Series, Arlan Feiles and more

This week also features Ellen Berman's Corona Classic Concert Series, Jammin’ for Jaclyn, Jersey Rock Home Showcase, Rock for the Nurses, Tom Costello, Christian Beach, Steven Wright-Mark, Amanda Rose Riley, Jackson Pines, Wayne Olivieri, Wyldlife, Roulette, Traffic on Washington, The Grip Weeds, Roadside Graves, Reality Suite, Makin Waves Song of the Week and Makin Waves Fest

published on 05/14/2020

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Makin Waves Record of the Week: "A Zillion Stars Overhead" by Debra Devi

​​​​​​​Debra Devi is a singer-songwriter-guitarist from Jersey City who combines some of the best blues slide-guitar playing the great State of New Jersey’s rich and fertile music scene has to offer with a pop-rock sensibility. Imagine a cross between Bonnie Raitt, Joan Jett and Pat Benatar. 

published on 05/14/2020

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Makin Waves with Tight Lipped: Red Hot Mamas

The all-female Jersey Shore outfit Tight Lipped make punk rock sexy again, yet inject it with as much attitude as it’s ever had. The frisky four-piece led by scene veteran Joy Vay of TV Tramps infamy had been working hard in support of an excellent seven-song debut EP, “So Tight,” and will do so again hopefully soon. In the meantime, Joy is working on a new TV Tramps project, as well as a new band, Death Rattle, with TV Tramps bassist Sweet Tooth, and opening the House of Trash boutique in Asbury Park. On behalf of her Tight Lipped bandmates -- co-founding bassist-vocalist Samantha Slick, lead guitarist Lauren “Blue” Fox and drummer drummer Kat DaVille -- Joy talked about these plans, which hopefully will include a spot with Black Clouds, 19DRT and VSSLS on May 30 at the Brighton Bar as part of Makin Waves Fest 2020 if the Brighton can reopen by then.

published on 05/07/2020

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Makin Waves Record of the Week: self-titled by 19DRT

​​​​​​​The intense trio of Jersey Shore scene veterans 19DRT make a wonderful racket they call noisy sludge punk. Fans of drummer Reg Hogan's other bands -- Defiance Engine, Solarized, Freak Theater and Daisycutter -- definitely will dig it, as will fans of vocalist-guitarist Frank Burdynski and bassist Dean Monjoy's other band, Dab Nebula, as well as Frank's Coffin Void. So will fans of sludge metal acts High on Fire and Neurosis. 

published on 05/07/2020

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Makin Waves Record of the Week: "Something Softly Caught Me" by Quality Living

Good as Quality Living’s self-titled 2016 full-length debut was, the new sophomore LP is even catchier, more harmonic and, well, better, especially the Brian Wilson-like symphonic pop that laces many of the 11 well-structured tunes. Standing out among them is the latest single, “Quiet (rest),” which is the Makin Waves Song of the Week at ThePenguinRocks.com and its “Radio Jersey” show. That means the charming reggae-tinged lyrical pop tune can be heard at 5 and 11 a.m., 5 p.m. and midnight daily through Wednesday, as well as 6:45 p.m. on Monday and Friday on “Radio Jersey.” 

published on 04/30/2020

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Record Roundup with Dave Mooney and Viewers Like You, Deal Casino, and Chucky Hugh

This month Bob Makin takes a look at the latest releases by Dave Mooney and Viewers Like You, Deal Casino, and Chucky Hugh.

published on 04/25/2020

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Makin Waves Record of the Week: "Outside the Window" by Gooch and the Motion

The message of hope on South Jersey/Philly-based Gooch and the Motion’s sophomore LP, “Outside the Window,” comes at a time when hope is as rare to find as an toilet paper. And it’s not just the follow-up to the 2016 debut, “Comin’ Home,” that offers hope, but the story of Ryan “Gooch” Nelson as well. 

published on 04/22/2020

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Makin Waves Scene Report with Naughty Clouds, Brianne Nealon, Frank Lombardi and more

This week also features Brighton Bar, New Brunswick Cultural Center, Crawfish Festival, Makin Waves Fest, Mint 400, Lump ’N’ Loaf, Telegraph Hill, Nick Ryan & the Mess, Dano, and Tony Appleseed

published on 04/16/2020

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Makin Waves Record of the Week: "Sticker Famous" by Dinosaur Eyelids

I sometimes wonder what ’90s indie rockers Dinosaur Jr. would think of New Brunswick grunge veterans Dinosaur Eyelids. Would they like their fusion of pop, punk and heavy noise? Would they think sometimes they are a bit to derivative for their own good? 

published on 04/16/2020

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Makin Waves Record of the Week: "Press Start" by Dave Mooney and Viewers Like You

Following several solo releases, Dave Mooney’s first EP with his relatively new band, Viewers Like You, also is a debut for North Jersey-based Mint 400 Records, home to their pals in The Extensions, The Clydes and the recently signed Fake Pockets. The six-song “Press Start,” features a 1980s video game image on its cover, also pays homage to that decade with a variety of quirky sounds from former Paper Jets keyboards Kristen Leu. There are also brushes with The Beatles and Bruce Springsteen in Mooney’s songwriting, as well as the playing of bassist Justin Franco and drummer Anthony Flora.

published on 04/08/2020

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Makin Waves with Daughter Vision: 'Gift to the Universe'

​​​​​​​Daughter Vision are an artsy metal-tinged synth-pop band that defy time and space while grounded in Asbury Park. 

published on 04/01/2020

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Makin Waves Record of the Week: "There's Nothing in this World Under Control" by Chucky Hugh

Fans of My Chemical Romance will enjoy the artsy emotionalism of prolific, prophetic North Jersey rocker Chucky Hugh, whose latest EP, “There’s Nothing In This World Under Control,” is an aptly titled release in the midst of a global pandemic. Unfortunately, the damn virus caused the cancellation of Chucky’s record release party this weekend, but with two other EPs and an LP under his creative belt, this guy’s a pro and will make it up to his large fan base.

published on 04/01/2020

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Makin Waves Record of the Week: "Local Honey" by Brian Fallon

After two solo albums on Island Records, Gaslight Anthem front man Brian Fallon has opted to drop his latest LP, “Local Honey,” on his own Lesser Known Records. For the Point Pleasant-based, Red Bank-raised singer-songwriter, the results are as sweet as they are cathartic. A gorgeously packaged collection, the eight servings of “Local Honey” once again recall Brian’s greatest influence: fellow Jersey Shore rocker Bruce Springsteen. But rather than emulate the youthful zeal of the Boss’ iconic ’70s catalog, Brian sounds like the Bruce of today: world-weary and wise. 

published on 03/25/2020

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Record Roundup with Hair Magic, San Tropez and Joshua Mark

Bob Makin reviews the latest releases by Hair Magic, San Tropez and Joshua Mark in this month's Makin Waves Record Roundup.

published on 03/23/2020

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Makin Waves with The Clydes: New Jersey's own The Brothers Johnson

While I was growing up in the 1970s, The Brothers Johnson were an L.A.-based R&B band who offered me and plenty of others some good ol’funky times. I have had as much fun watching East Brunswick-raised brothers Brent and Brian Johnson’s 11-year rise within the veteran New Brunswick alt-rock outfit The Clydes. With co-founding bassist Andrew Lord and relatively new drummer Pete Gambino, lead singer-rhythm guitarist-keyboardist Brent and lead guitarist Brian have grown not only in skill but also professionalism, as well as respect and stature throughout the rich and fertile New Jersey music scene. 

published on 03/18/2020

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Makin Waves Record of the Week: "Woof." by Deal Casino

Just as Deal Casino once again were out on the road, this time in support of their new EP, “Woof.,” COVID-19 forced a tour cancellation, as was the case with many other bands around the world. But sly rock ‘n’ roll devils that they are, the Asbury Park-based outfit found a work around with their Quarantour, a series of live events streamed online.

published on 03/18/2020

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Makin Waves Record of the Week: "Off the Ship" by Originaire

If you like pretty, pining folk music, then talented Jersey Shore threesome Originaire will be your cup of tea. They make hauntingly ambient music that is gorgeous but suffers from a lack of self-editing and/or an experienced producer. At times overindulgent, their four-song debut EP, “Off the Ship,” is based on the addictions and recoveries of singer-songwriters CiBon and Ken Shiles, who also handsomely strums and picks guitar.

published on 03/11/2020

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Makin Waves with A Halo Called Fred: 'Joys of Not Taking Life So Seriously'

New Brunswick-based indie-rock veterans A Halo Called Fred will celebrate their latest release on Lump ‘N’ Loaf Records, “Go Home Drama You're Drunk and Other Tales of Going through Hell to Escape the Evil Monkeys,” at their annual Freaky Mutant Weirdo Variety Show on March 21 at Roxy & Dukes Roadhouse in Dunellen.

published on 03/04/2020

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Makin Waves Record of the Week: "Keep Me in Your Mind" by Joshua Mark

Asbury Park singer-songwriter Joshua Mark has followed his 2015 debut EP, “Breaking Ground,” with another impressive five-song collection on Jersey Shore-based Ghetto Surf Records. “Keep Me in Your Mind” recalls the sensitive, organic-sounding singing and songwriting of James Taylor with a bit of the funky folk-pop of Jack Johnson. Some of his vocal inflections particularly recall J.T.

published on 03/04/2020

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Makin Waves Record of the Week: "Go Home Drama You're Drunk and Other Tales of Going through Hell to Escape the Evil Monkeys" by A Halo Called Fred

For the first 24 of the 28 years that New Brunswick-based indie-rockers A Halo Called Fred churned out their psycho-geek Tupperware-pop madness, I wasn’t a big fan because I thought their music was a silly waste of time. Shame on me! Like Bob Dylan’s “My Back Pages” says, “I was so much older then. I’m younger than that now.” 

published on 02/26/2020

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Record Roundup with The Outcrops, Stephane Wrembel and Dub Proof

Bob Makin takes a look at the latest releases by The Outcrops, Stephane Wrembel, and Dub Proof in this month's Makin Waves Record Roundup.

published on 02/26/2020

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Makin Waves with The Anderson Council: Keeping Young

If you are a fan of British Invasion power pop and psychedelia and subsequently inspired acts, Highland Park-based The Anderson Council are you’re jam. Released on Jersey-based JEM Records — home to similar Garden State acts The Weeklings and The Grip Weeds — last year’s 14-song “Worlds Collide” is one of the best things the psyche-pop four-piece ever have done during their 21 years, following four previous LPs and an anthology.  

published on 02/19/2020

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Makin Waves Record of the Week: "Lila" by San Tropez


The Highland Park-based dream pop outfit San Tropez will play in support of their passionate five-song debut EP, “Lila,” on March 20 at The Asbury Soundbooth in Asbury Park and April 11 at Pino’s, their hometown haven for original bands.

published on 02/19/2020

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Makin Waves Record of the Week: self-titled by Hair Magic

Like Asbury Park’s MAMADRAMA and Philly’s The Ramoms, Highland Park-based Hair Magic are a punk-inspired outfit consisting of moms who rock. Guitarist-vocalist Jennifer Rector, bassist-vocalist Christine Espiritu and drummer Christie Lutz are a fun, charming trio whose self-titled debut EP is as infectious as it is energetic, as edgy as it is genuine. 

published on 02/12/2020

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Makin Waves with Solace: Always Brothers

When I was a young upstart in the New Jersey music scene during the alternative-rock boom of the late-’80s into the mid-’90s, four bands rattled my spine a bit more than most others: Monster Magnet, Nudeswirl, Big Nurse and Godspeed.

published on 02/05/2020

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Makin Waves Record of the Week: "Peace of Mind" by The Outcrops

Like Tedeschi Trucks Band, Grace Potter, Spin Doctors and Edie Brickell & the New Bohemians, Northwest Jersey jam band The Outcrops expressively and joyously scratch a Grateful Dead and Allman Brothers Band itch with a psychedelic mix of blues, funk, soul and roots music. Their 2019 eight-song debut LP, “Peace of Mind,” is expertly crafted by producer Tim Carbone of Railroad Earth, who gets exceptional performances out of the four-piece and their guest musicians in a way that showcases them as a soulful, bluesy jam band, yet compliments their strong songwriting.

published on 02/05/2020

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Makin Waves Record of the Week: "Robotracks" by Dub Proof

​​​​​​​Today, boys and girls, we are going to put into the Makin Waves musical blender dub pioneer Lee “Scratch” Perry, Rock and Roll Hall of Fame funkateers Parliament-Funkadelic and overlooked electronica pioneers Tangerine Dream. Ready to give it a whirl?

published on 01/29/2020

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Makin Waves Record Roundup With Candy Cavity, The Weeklings, and Solace

Bob Makin takes a look at the latest releases by Candy Cavity, The Weeklings, and Solace in this month's Makin Waves Record Roundup.

published on 01/25/2020

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Makin Waves Record(s) of the Week: "Knockin' on the Door" by Glenn Alexander & Shadowland AND "L.A.X." by LaRue/AleXander

Jersey guitarist extraordinare Glenn Alexander, the latest lead guitarist of Southside Johnny & the Asbury Jukes, has two relatively new albums out. “Knockin’ on the Door” is the sophomore release of the Jukes-like Glenn Alexander & Shadowland. The September release follows a 2016 self-tilted debut. And “L.A.X.,” the long-awaited debut of LaRue/AleXander, his funky Southern-rockin’ swamp boogie band with Stretch mate and Jersey bass great Dave LaRue of Dixie Dregs, Steve Morse Band and Flying Colors drooped in November.

published on 01/22/2020

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Makin Waves Scene Report with Olivia Rohlfs, Telegraph Hill Records, Asbury Angels & more

Montclair-based singer-songwriter Olivia Rohlfs is premiering the new video for her debut single, “June 8th,” with Makin Waves at NewJerseyStage.com. Also featured are The Grip Weeds,  Pino's,  The Clydes, Windows of Understanding, Leah Jenea, Bulletproof Belv, The Beagles, Oh Elis, Mikell’s Plot, Connor Bracken & the Mother Leeds Band, Tyler Veit, Cook Thugless, Jackson Pines, Houston & the Dirty Rats, Ezra Caspi, Jon Caspi & the First Gun, Ella Ross, Howl Peak Productions, Dinosaur Eyelids, and Mike Frank & Friends

published on 01/15/2020

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Makin Waves Record of the Week: "Django Experiment V" & "Django L'Impressionniste" by Stephane Wrembel

Gypsy jazz pioneer Django Reinhardt is a masterful musician’s musician who has influenced head Deadhead Jerry Garcia and his bluegrass buddy David Grisman, abandoned Allman Brother Dickey Betts, the classical axe of Julian Bream, session everyman Chet Atkins, and fellow jazz greats Wes Montgomery and Charlie Byrd. In May in little ol’ Maplewood, NJ, that influence once again will be celebrated with Django disciple Stephane Wrembel’s annual Django a Go Go, a guitar gathering that brings together players from all over the world. This year, the six-string summit will culminate in an all-star concert on May 9 at New York City’s Town Hall.

published on 01/15/2020

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Makin Waves with Robert Randolph: Grammy Guy

Irvington-raised sacred steel guitarist Robert Randolph is nominated for his sixth Grammy Awards, which will take place Jan. 26 at the Staples Center in Los Angeles. Nominated in the Best Contemporary Blues Album for his “Brighter Days” LP, he is vying for his first win. 

published on 01/15/2020

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Makin Waves Record of the Week: "3" by The Weeklings

Power-poppin’ super-group The Weeklings will celebrate the release of their third studio LP, “3,” Jan. 17 at the Stone Pony in their home base of Asbury Park, the final date on their Light of Day Winterfest tour that includes stops in Montclair, Philadelphia, New York City and Asbury’s Paramount Theatre. 

published on 01/08/2020

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Makin Waves' Dirty Jersey Dozen

The Makin Waves Dirty Jersey Dozen are the 12 Garden State original unsigned and extremely independent rock acts who made the most waves in 2019 by touring at least regionally and releasing impactful videos and singles in support of a great, well-received recording released within the past 24 months. They also are most likely to make the most waves in 2020 by remaining the New Jersey music scene’s most creative and productive artists. 

published on 01/01/2020

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Makin Waves Record of the Week: self-titled by Candy Cavity

Singer-songwriter-guitarist Candace Schur has that irresistible combination of Marilyn Monroe-like qualities: charming, cute, sweet, sexy, beautiful, naughty and trashy. The fact that she is surrounded by a band of burly, bearded macho men in Candy Cavity makes her even more fascinating.

published on 01/01/2020

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Makin Waves with Blaise: "Limitless Possibilities"

Asbury Park alt-pop singer-songwriter Blaise is among the many artists performing at Telegraph Hill Records’ annual What a Wonderful Year celebration at the Wonder Bar. Co-presented by Asbury Park Music Foundation, the two-day Makin Waves-sponsored event will be Dec. 26 and 27. Blaise will play the latter date.

published on 12/26/2019

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Makin Waves Record Roundup with Honey Wild, Black Light Medusa, and New Narratives

Bob Makin takes a look at the latest releases by Honey Wild, Black Light Medusa, and New Narratives.

published on 12/25/2019

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21st Annual Makin Waves Awards

My annual holiday gift to the New Jersey music scene is a salute to what I thought were the state’s best independent artists of 2019. To qualify, acts have to be based in New Jersey. Members can live in surrounding states, but not farther away than that and not shared with another state. 

published on 12/18/2019

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Makin Waves Record of the Week: "The Brink" by Solace


When I was a young upstart in the New Jersey music scene during the alternative-rock boom of the late-’80s into the mid-’90s, four bands rattled my spine a bit more than most others: Monster Magnet, Nudeswirl, Big Nurse and Godspeed.

published on 12/12/2019

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Makin Waves with Dentist: Feeding the beat

Dentist will cap off a great year of national touring with shows Dec. 14 at Baby’s Alright in Brooklyn and New Year’s Eve at The Saint in their hometown of Asbury Park.

published on 12/04/2019

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Makin Waves Record of the Week: self-titled by Black Light Medusa

All hail, Jenny Cat, an extremely talented singer-songwriter and guitarist who has been slugging it out in the local scene for a while, both solo and in bands. She’s finally getting her due with the excellent female punk trio Black Light Medusa, an all-star outfit also featuring drummer Kat DaVille of Tight Lipped and The Bloody Muffs and bassist Cathy Berg of Devil’s Bubble Gum and The Infamous Lost Cause.

published on 12/04/2019

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Makin Waves Records of the Year 2019

Makin Waves’ annual Top 10 Records of the Year list includes Experiment 34, Baron Praxis,The Anderson Council, Frank Lombardi, Cyclone Static, Chill Smith, From Good Homes, Pyrenesia, The Vansaders and Stella Mrowicki. Plus another 10 honorable mentions. Be a pal, and buy some! 

published on 11/26/2019

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Makin Waves Songs of the Year: 2019

Makin Waves’ annual Top 10 songs of the year list includes Honey Wild, From Good Homes, Jackson Pines, Arlan Feiles, Frank Lombardi, Mike Daly & The Planets, Hot Blood, The Vansaders, Experiment 34, and Stella Mrowicki.  Be a pal, and buy some! 

published on 11/26/2019

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Record Roundup with The Clydes, Daughter Vision and Baron Praxis

Bob Makin takes a look at the latest releases by The Clydes, Daughter Vision and Baron Praxis in this month

published on 11/26/2019

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Makin Waves Scene Report with The Extensions, Mint 400 Records, What a Wonderful Year and more

Includes news on The Extensions, A Very Asbury Holiday, The Pop Break, Pino’s Holiday Music Jamboree, San Tropez, The Weeklings, The Wag, The Wizards of Winter, Railroad Earth, Nefesh Mountain, Solid Bronze, Stephane Wrembel, Katie Henry, Black Light Medusa, Tallie Fest, Matt Cook, Chris Rockwell, The Band Called FUSE, Hub City Stompers, Dave & Tom, The Vaughns, Cold Weather Company, 18th & Addison, steve., Pamela Flores, Sof, Bad Blooms, Rory D

published on 11/20/2019

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Makin Waves Record of the Week: self-titled by "Honey Wild"

Do you believe in the Rock Gods?  Well, they smiled upon a festival I’ve co-produced for a year called Tallie Fest that aims to bring attention to New Jersey’s many talent female and female-front acts, who often get overlooked, like the event’s namesake, Asbury Park icon Tillie’s little-known GF. Co-producer Brittney Dixon of Brittney on Fire thankfully brought the amazing new band Honey Wild into the fest, which takes place this weekend at Asbury Park Yacht Club, Langosta Lounge and The Saint. Honey Wild are playing Nov. 23 at APYC with Daughter Vision and Brittney’s brand new Band of Hard Truths, making their live debut.

published on 11/20/2019

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Makin Waves Record of the Week: "To Build a Universe" by New Narratives

Evolving from a two-piece to a full-fledged band, New Narratives drop the in-between with “To Build a Universe,” their six-song debut EP. The collection opens with the rousing “Uphill,” which lives up to its name by starting out as jangly acoustic pop ala Suzanne Vega or Natalie Merchant and about halfway through, kicks into a more energetic indie rocker along the lines of fellow Asbury Park act Dentist.

published on 11/13/2019

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Makin Waves with Brittney Dixon and Band of Hard Truths: 'Truth hurts!'

Brittney Dixon is the youngest person ever to win the Makin Waves Tsunami Award, this 31-year-old column’s annual nonperformer recognition of the behind-the-scenes scenester who moved and shook the scene the most that year. That was in 2016 for single-handedly saving the Court Tavern from one of many near extinctions as its general manager and main promoter with her Brittney on Fire concert promotion.

published on 11/06/2019

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Makin Waves Record of the Week: "Is Anyone Listening?" by Ella Ross

Wow! Young Ella Ross has released her third EP in as many years. “Is Anyone Listening?” continues with the danceable alt-pop, but shows a great maturity lyrically commenting on struggles in life and art, hence the title in an age when it’s difficult to get peers to put down their lattes and give a good listen to live music above a conversational level.

published on 11/06/2019

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Makin Waves Record of the Week: "DV EP" by Daughter Vision

Daughter Vision are a fun and fascinating mix of the theatrical glam of David Bowie, the art rock of Laurie Anderson, and the synth pop of Kraftwerk and Vince Clarke of Depeche Mode, Yaz and Erasure. If Robert Smith from The Cure and Siouxsie Sioux were married by Paul Jourgensen of Ministry, Daughter Vision would make the perfect wedding band.

published on 10/30/2019

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Record Roundup with Arlan Feiles, Chill Smith, and Matthew Whitaker

Bob Makin takes a look at the latest releases from Arlan Feiles, Chill Smith, and Matthew Whitaker in the Makin Waves Record Roundup.

published on 10/25/2019

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Makin Waves Scene Report with Tallie Fest, Mint 400 Records' Indie Binge, Asbury Lanes Diner and more

This week also features The Brighton Bar, Vendetta Rose, Solace, Pino’s, Banding Together Telegraph Hill Records, Dentist, The Skullers, Jackie June, Kathleen Elle, and Slee.

published on 10/24/2019

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Makin Waves Record of the Week: "Precursor" by Baron Praxis

Like 1960s into the early ’70s, the early ’90s were one of the most artistic time periods for rock music with bands, such as Nirvana, Soundgarden, Pearl Jam, Mudhoney, Alice in Chains, Tool and Jane’s Addiction. Were it 1993, Baron Praxis might represent New Jersey within that circle of modern-rock royalty with their edgy hysterics, progressive pummeling and Sabbathy sludge. Since it’s crappy 2019 -- and what’s left of the music industry wouldn’t know good music if it bit it on its collective ass -- the Toms River-based band must bang it out in the local scene. 

published on 10/24/2019

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Makin Waves Record of the Week: "Old-Time Monarchy" by The Clydes

The energetic jangle of New Brunswick indie-rock veterans The Clydes returns with second full-length album on North Jersey-based Mint 400 Records and their third since 2015’s self-released “Hiding from the Summer.” Like its predecessor, 2017’s “So the Story Goes,” “Old-Time Monarchy” was produced by label head Neil Sabatino, who helps the band unlock a more vibrant sound fueled by the Johnson Brothers’ passionate vocals and lead guitar playing, respectively by Brent and Brian. The songwriting also is better this time out, perhaps because of a variety of keyboards to bounce off Brian’s ringing guitars, but also because the lyrics reflect on inner chaos as it relates to that of the world amidst the strange times in which we are living.

published on 10/16/2019

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Makin Waves Record of the Week: "What Kind of World?" by Arlan Feiles

With the progressive passion of Woody Guthrie, flashes of the poetry of Bob Dylan, the Americana grit of Bruce Springsteen, the singer-songwriter-instrumentalist sensibility of Jackson Browne, and the Ray Charles-inspired blue-eyed soul of Van Morrison, Jersey Shore-based, Los Angeles-bred Arlan Feiles has established himself as a respected artist worldwide with the release of five independent albums. But his sixth, “What Kind of World?,” is his best because he seems even more inspired with the recent birth of his first son to confront society’s ills with an eclectic palate of roots music, including gospel, soul, blues, folk and country. His view of the world through not only a father’s eyes, but also those of a child, is stunning in its beauty and might. 

published on 10/09/2019

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Makin Waves with The Smithereens: 'Nothing More Precious than Friendship and Family'

The Smithereens, bassist Mike Mesaros, singer-songwriter-guitarist Pat DiNizio, guitarist Jim Babjak and drummer Dennis Diken, will be inducted on Oct. 27 into the New Jersey Hall of Fame at the Paramount Theatre in Asbury Park.

published on 10/03/2019

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Makin Waves Record of the Week: "Chillville, YO" by Chill Smith

I’ve been saying for a while how much I want Chill Smith and Murdock to do an AP/JC mash-up because they both love superheroes and they have a similar breathy, staccato tongue-in-cheek style that also is similar at times to Murdock’s Jersey City pals, Cook Thugless. That funky flirtatious sound is best represented on the Makin Waves Song of the Week, “Pepto Bismol,” which features fellow Jersey Shore rapper Heather Hills on the second single from Chill’s debut full-length, “Chillville, YO.” As the Makin Waves Song of the Week, “Pepto Bismal,” can be heard 6:45 pm Friday and Monday on “Radio Jersey,” as well as four other times daily at ThePenguinRocks.com and Makin Waves’ Spotify and YouTube playlists.

published on 10/03/2019

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Makin Waves Record of the Week: "Suburbia" by Drew the Recluse

Jersey Shore rapper-singer Drew the Recluse will play Oct. 4 at Asbury Park Music Foundation in support of his latest EP, “Suburbia.”

published on 09/26/2019

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Record Roundup with Successful Failures, Bulletproof Belv, and Lowlight

Bob Makin takes a look at the latest releases by The Successful Failures, Bulletproof Belv, and Lowlight.

published on 09/24/2019

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50 Years Of Little Feat

For 50 years, Little Feat have been laying down irresistible grooves. A band’s band, their fans include Bob Dylan and members of The Rolling Stones, Grateful Dead, Led Zeppelin, Widespread Panic, Dave Matthews Band, and Phish, who recently covered the band’s “Spanish Moon” in Mexico and played the entire “Waiting for Columbus” live album on Halloween in 2010.

published on 09/24/2019

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Makin Waves with The Cryptkeeper Five: Sonic Truth!

The Cryptkeeper Five premiere their new single, a cover of The Sonics’ “Strychnine".

published on 09/18/2019

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Makin Waves Record of the Week: "Now Hear This" by Matthew Whitaker

Hackensack-raised teenage jazz keyboard phenom Matthew Whitaker comes into his own on his sophomore LP, “Now Hear This.”

published on 09/18/2019

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Makin Waves Record of the Week: "Bellicose" by The Extensions

Picking up where Brian Erickson’s previous power-pop band, The Paper Jets, left off, The Extensions – also bassist Kevin Newcomb (Fun While You Wait), drummer Pete Stern (Rose Boulevard) and keyboardist-vocalist Lisa LoVell (Dave Mooney & Viewers Like You) – bring their all-star skills to a debut EP, “Bellicose.” With a title that refers to the force with which members embrace their new project, the record will drop Sept. 20 on North Jersey-based Mint 400 Records with a release party at Asbury Lanes. Sharing that bill will be fellow 3143 Artist Management acts The Mercury Brothers, Arlan Feiles & the Brokenhearted, Deirdre Forrest & the Backseams, and Mooney’s aforementioned band. Arlan, Deirdre and Mooney are featured on the comp, but for some reason, The Extensions and The Mercury Brothers aren’t (at least not on the tracks that I received). 

published on 09/11/2019

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Makin Waves Record of the Week: "Endless Bummer" by Lowlight

From the first seconds of the Phil Spector-meets-Brian Wilson-like symphonic surf-rock of the opening “Give it a Minute,” Lowlight had my full attention with their new LP, “Endless Bummer.” Complete with a sweet slack key-like steel guitar that follows a great childlike choir at the end of the track, “Give It a Minute” is the Makin Waves Song of the Week at  ThePenguinRocks.com, its “Radio Jersey” show, as well as Makin Waves’ Spotify and YouTube playlists. 

published on 09/05/2019

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Makin Waves with Levy & the Oaks: In Your Face!

​​​​​​​Levy & the Oaks are a relatively new band featuring four well-established veterans of the New Jersey music scene. Front man Levy Okun and bassist Lou Panico were in Drive-Thru recording act Socratic, and guitarists Chris Colon and Nick Ryan also are known respectively for their involvement in international Beatles tribute acts and Asbury faves Taylor Tote Band.

published on 09/04/2019

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Makin Waves Record of the Week: "Dark Hour" by The Parlor Mob

I’ve always thought of The Parlor Mob as a hard rock band, not exactly Monster Magnet but continuing on that Pride of Red Bank tip. If I am correct in that assessment, their new album “Dark Hour,” their first full-length since the 2011 Roadrunner outing, “Dogs,” is quite a departure, half of which flirts with EDM.

published on 08/28/2019

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Record Roundup with Shut Up, The Anderson Council and From Good Homes

Bob Makin takes a look at the latest releases by Shut Up, The Anderson Council and From Good Homes in this month's Makin Waves Record Roundup.

published on 08/27/2019

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Makin Waves with The Extensions: A FewMore with Brian Erickson

The Extensions will celebrate the release of their Mint 400 Records debut EP, ‘Bellicose,’ on Sept. 20 at Asbury Lanes.

published on 08/21/2019

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Makin Waves Record of the Week: "Saratoga" by The Successful Failures

For more than a dozen years on half a dozen full-length albums, The Successful Failures have been a great, ragged, edgy mix of indie power pop and American-inspired roots rock. The 11-song “Saratoga,” their seventh collection on singer-songwriter-guitarist-keyboardist Mick Chorba’s own FDR Label, starts right off with that signature sound on the opening “Because We’re Ghosts.” The rollicking rumble ‘n’ ramble is a prime example of the band’s patented mix of The Beatles, The Replacements, Tom Petty & the Heartbreakers, and The Rolling Stones.

published on 08/21/2019

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Makin Waves Scene Report with Central Jersey Jazz Festival, Indie Binge, Stone Pony & more

This week features the Central Jersey Jazz Festival, Indie Binge, The Stone Pony, Stone Temple Pilots, The New Bardots, The Parlor Mob, Abbey Road 50th Anniversary Tribute, Asbury Park Music Foundation, Hip Hop Institute, Promise, Remember Jones, Dinosaur Stampede, Dw Dunphy. BlowUp Radio’s Banding Together Spondylitis Benefit, Asbury Park Porchfest, Amanda Rose Riley, Minor Setback, NJ Weedman’s Joint, Karyn Kuhl Band, Rick Barry, Glen Burtnik’s Summer of Love, Joe Nevolo and The Afraid Brigade.

published on 08/14/2019

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Makin Waves Record of the Week: "Everything Earned" by Bulletproof Belv

Asbury Park rapper Bulletproof Belv’s latest LP is “Everything Earned.”

published on 08/14/2019

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Makin Waves with Little Vicious: Rappin' redemption with the Riff Witch!

Asbury Park/Orlando-based Marguerite King’s tale of musical and personal redemption is as passionate as the pursuit of her dreams with her bad-ass band, Little Vicious. 

published on 08/07/2019

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Makin Waves Record of the Week: "Nope" by Shut Up

In support of their debut LP, “Nope,” Shut Up are playing Aug. 30 with Chemtrail at The Chubby Pickle, Highlands; Oct. 4 with Mudhoney at White Eagle Hall, Jersey City; Nov. 1 with Hidden Knives at The News Café, Pawtucket, R.I., and Nov. 2 at the Hixxgiving Festival at Midway Café in Boston. 

published on 08/07/2019

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Makin Waves Record of the Week: "Time and the River" by From Good Homes

With their pastoral, Northwest Jersey-churned improvisational roots rock, From Good Homes always have been one of the proudest points on the Garden State Music Map. And home they are coming from New Hampshire and South Carolina to reunite once again at Waterloo Village in Hackettstown. This time, it’s for an Aug. 3 record release party for a great new album, "Time and the River."

published on 07/31/2019

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Makin Waves Record Roundup with Reality Suite, Christine Mitchell, and Sunny Gang

Bob Makin takes a look at the latest releases by Reality Suite, Christine Mitchell, and Sunny Gang in this month's Makin Waves Record Roundup.

published on 07/25/2019

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Makin Waves Scene Report with Let It All Hang Out Fest, Carteret Summer Concert Series, Mint 400 Records and more

Jersey rocker CC Colleti has organized the three-day Woodstock tribute Let It All Hang Out Fest at which she, American Idol finalist Constantine Maroulis and several others will pay tribute to the historic event’s original lineup. This week also features Pyrrhic Victory Records, 3143 Management, Telegraph Hill Records, Hub City Sounds, Bulletproof Belv, Shut Up,  Rhonette Smith, Deal Casino, Hi-Tide Summer Holiday, Rachel Ana Dobken, 18th & Addison, Baron Praxis, The Latest Noise, Asbury Park Music Foundation, Turnpike Gates, JERSEY ROCKS!, Dan Amato and Jackie June

published on 07/24/2019

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Makin Waves Record of the Week: "Worlds Collide" by The Anderson Council

​​​​​​​If you are a fan of British Invasion power pop and psychedelia and subsequently inspired acts, such as XTC, The Jam, Redd Kross, The Smithereens, The Pursuit of Happiness, The Posies and Jellyfish, you’re going to love the new Anderson Council album. Released on Jersey-based JEM Records – home to similar Garden State acts The Weeklings and The Grip Weeds – the 14-song “Worlds Collide” may be the best thing the New Brunswick psyche-pop four-piece ever have done following four previous LPs and an anthology.  

published on 07/24/2019

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Makin Waves with Cold Weather Company: Come Together

The harmonic New Brunswick-based acoustic trio Cold Weather Company have amassed a sizeable online and live following releasing three albums completely DIY

published on 07/18/2019

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Makin Waves Record of the Week: "Don't Even Ask" by P-Funk North

If you like Sublime, Dirty Heads and other bands who invite you to a funky reggae party, then you’ll enjoy North Plainfield-based P-Funk North’s latest LP, “Don’t Even Ask.” To the best of the merry mix — ably laid down by PFN drummer Ryan Weil at his Middletown-based Weilhouse Productions — he and founding singer-songwriter-bassist-guitarist Dave Sloyan add punk, ska, dub and rap.

published on 07/18/2019

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Makin Waves Record of the Week: "Awaken (Deluxe)" by Reality Suite

North Jersey hard rockers Reality Suite have expanded upon their 2018 self-released “Awaken” EP with the 12-track LP “Awaken (Deluxe),” their debut for the Denmark label Lions Pride Music.

published on 07/10/2019

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Makin Waves with Chalk and the Beige Americans: 'Scene Synergy'

On the eve of the Garden State Hip Hop and Makin Waves Summer Rap ‘n’ Rock Tour, Chalk and the Beige Americans talk about hitting the road and entering the studio, while sharing their soul-hop history. 

published on 07/03/2019

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Makin Waves Record of the Week: “Friendly Neighborhood Rhyme Slinger” by Chill Smith

Chill Smith was inspired by “Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse” and “Black Panther” to create his new EP, “Friendly Neighborhood Rhyme Slinger,” which looks at racism, homophobia and other social ills through the eyes of a black superhero.

published on 07/03/2019

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Makin Waves Record of the Week: "So Tight" by Tight Lipped

In support of their debut EP, “So Tight,” Asbury Park-based punk girl-group Tight Lipped will play June 29 at Otto’s Shrunken and July 24 at Bowery Electric, both New York City, and Aug. 17 at Bourre, Atlantic City.

published on 06/26/2019

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Makin Waves Record Roundup with The Vaughns, Frank Lombardi, and Stella Mrowicki

Bob Makin takes a look at the latest releases by The Vaughns, Frank Lombardi, and Stella Mrowicki in this month's Record Roundup.

published on 06/24/2019

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Makin Waves with Apollo Ali: 'Champion Sound'

​​​​​​​Camden rapper Apollo Ali, the last grandson of heavyweight champion “Jersey” Joe Walcott, will be performing songs off his brand-new LP, “Don’t Bite,” on the Garden State Hip-Hop and Makin Waves Summer Rap ‘n’ Rock Tour. He honors his grandfather with a new single, “Champion Sound,” from his just-dropped LP, “Don’t Bite.”

published on 06/19/2019

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Makin Waves Record of the Week: "American Carnage" by Sunny Gang

Newark-based punk-rap band Sunny Gang will celebrate the release of their long-awaited EP, “American Carnage,” on June 21 at Asbury Park Brewery with Nervous Triggers, Offtopkills and OhWon.

published on 06/19/2019

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Makin Waves Scene Report with Summer Rap ‘n’ Rock Tour, Asbury Park Music Foundation, Mayor's Summer Concert Series and more

In an effort to promote racial and musical harmony and unity, Garden State Hip-Hop and Makin Waves have organized the Summer Rap ‘n’ Rock Tour with a dozen rotating rap, rock and DJ acts playing seven dates in six Mid-Atlantic cities. Also featured this week are “Calling All Divas,” Mint 400 Records, classic Sounds of Asbury Park at the Stone Pony, The Vaughns, Shred Flinstone, Art All Night, Fan Jam, and Patricia Arroyo.

published on 06/13/2019

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Makin Waves Record of the Week: "Table for Two" by Christine Mitchell

In support of her new five-song EP, Christine Mitchell will play July 27 at the Chubby Pickle in Highlands.

published on 06/13/2019

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Makin Waves with Green Knuckle Material: "Community is everything"

Never say die is a motto few bands live up to as intensely and successfully as New Brunswick-based Green Knuckle Material.  The band has been touring non-stop and will play four shows on the upcoming Garden State Hip Hop and Makin Waves Summer Rap ‘n’ Rock Tour.

published on 06/05/2019

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Makin Waves Record of the Week: "Stella Mrowicki"

The Mrowicki Asbury Park music tradition continues with Stella, the sensational singer-songwriter daughter of legendary DJ Lee. As an audio-tech student at Rowan University, young Stella produced, recorded and mixed her self-titled debut album and performed all its instruments and vocals.

published on 06/05/2019

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Makin Waves Record of the Week: "Predawn" by Frank Lombardi

In support of his third LP, “Predawn,” Asbury Park singer-songwriter Frank Lombardi will continue to play a weekly residency on Wednesdays at Asbury Park Yacht Club with Cranston Dean Band, featuring Rachel Ana Dobken on drums.  The record features Lombardi at his best. ARTWORK COURTESY OFAIRPLAY RECORDS

published on 05/30/2019

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Record Roundup with Little Vicious, Little Steven, and Mike Daly & the Planets

Bob Makin takes a look at the latest releases by Little Vicious, Little Steve & the Disciples of Soul, and Mike Daley & the Planets in this month's Makin Waves Record Roundup.

published on 05/27/2019

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Makin Waves Scene Report with Glen Burtnik’s Summer of Love, Light of Day Foundation, Mike Greenblatt and more

“Live Love” is a new Summer of Love live album co-produced by the Asbury Park-based national production’s promoter Tony Pallagrosi and band leader Glen Burtnik (“Beatlemania,” Cats on a Smooth Surface, Slaves of New Brunswick, Styx, The Weeklings). Also featured this week are 90.5 the Night, Monmouth Museum, Spirit of the Upstage Club Jam Session, The Cryptkeeper Five, The Vansaders, Northside Lounge, Houston & the Dirty Rats, Fourth Wave, Chemtrail, Reality Suite, Jon Caspi & the First Gun, Elephant Talk, After the Burn, Art All Night and the Brighton Bar.

published on 05/22/2019

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Makin Waves Record of the Week: "Back to Your Roots" by Green Knuckle Material

Green Knuckle Material, a hard-working groove-rock/hip-hop band with roots in North, Central and South Jersey, will celebrate the release of their new EP, a re-recording of three songs from their 2016 “Back to Your Roots” debut, and an accompanying comic book on May 25 at Debonair Music Hall with Jean Pool, Tula Vera and Olive & the Pitz.

published on 05/22/2019

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Makin Waves with Secret Sound: All in the Jamily

This fall, Secret Sound will celebrate their 20th anniversary, but beforehand, they’ll help the Jersey Shore jam scene celebrate the 50th anniversaries of The Allman Brothers Band, The Meters and Little Feat at the Third Annual Makin Waves Jam ‘n’ Groove Fest on May 19 at the Brighton Bar in Long Branch.

published on 05/15/2019

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Makin Waves Record of the Week: "FOMO" by The Vaughns

Following two EPs and several singles and videos during the past five years, The Vaughns have released their debut full-length, “FOMO,” a delightful mix of whimsical indie rock and gnarly grunge. They will celebrate its release on May 17th at Asbury Park Brewery with Ella Ross an The Morgan Freemasons.

published on 05/15/2019

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Makin Waves Scene Report with Makin Waves Fest, Radio Jersey, Rock Against Hate & more

Full on Empty, featuring Dan Caputo of Negative Sky, pictured, will be one of 24 bands that play the inaugural Makin Waves Fest May 17 to 19 at the Brighton Bar, Long Branch, and May 20 at the Wonder Bar in Asbury Park. Also featured this week are Lump ‘N’ Loaf Records, He Said She Said, Park Fest, Telegraph Hill Records, Jernee Mill, Cat London, Kathleen Elle, Mike Montrey Band, Greygoesblack, The View from Here, Asbury Park Music Foundation and Rose Kingsley. 

published on 05/09/2019

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Makin Waves Record of the Week: "Dark Country" by Little Vicious

Little Vicious will release their “Dark Country” LP on May 17, which will coincide with a video shoot for the track “Soul Collector” at Whitechapel Projects in Long Branch. During the 12 months that she has been able to devote to her music full time, bad-ass shredder Marguerite King has been able to make Little Vicious one of the best bands in New Jersey and their forthcoming LP, “Dark Country,” proves it.

published on 05/09/2019

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Makin Waves Record of the Week: "Summer of Sorcery" by Little Steven and the Disciples of Soul

Before he heads out on a world tour in support of “Summer of Sorcery,” his first LP of new material in 20 years, Little Steven will rock his old stomping grounds of Asbury Park with a May 8 show at Paramount Theatre. With the 12-song record, Little Steven offers his patient fans a long-awaited batch of bewitching rock ‘n’ soul.

published on 05/02/2019

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Makin Waves with The Carousers: All in the Family

In preview of the opening “Joey Nite” of Makin Waves Fest on May 17 at the Brighton Bar in Long Branch, Joey Affatato chats about his deep relationship with each act on the bill: Christine Mitchell, The Carousers, The Mighty John Caseys and The Cryptkeeper Five!

published on 05/02/2019

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Makin Waves Record Roundup with Vendetta Rose, The New Black, and Pyrenesia

This month's Record Roundup takes a look at recent releases by Vendetta Rose, The New Black, and Pyrenesia.

published on 04/26/2019

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Makin Waves Scene Report with Bradstock, Asbury Park Punk Rock Flea Market, Jammin' for Jaclyn and more

Brad Morrison, the founder of Absolute a Go Go Records, nurtured the careers of such great bands as Phish, Miracle Legion, Tiny Lights, Wooden Soldiers, Spiral Jetty, The Figgs and The Vestrymen. On May 4 at Monty Hall in Jersey City, several of them will gather to pay tribute to their influential and greatly missed friend.  Also featured this week are Blackthorn, Black Potatoe Music Festival, Railroad Earth, Little Vicious, Frank Lombardi, The Porchistas, RGD, Avenel Performing Arts Center, Jersey Is Dead, Golden Dimes, and The Beagles. 

published on 04/24/2019

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Makin Waves Record of the Week: "All It Takes Is One" by Mike Daly & the Planets

North Jersey-based Mike Daly & the Planets follow their impressive 2017 self-titled debut with a new 11-song outing, “All It Takes Is One.”  They will celebrate the release of their sophomore LP on May 3 at Tierney’s, Montclair, with The Anderson Council and The Brixton Riot.

published on 04/24/2019

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Makin Waves with Taylor Tote

Taylor Tote chats about her new single and video, “Heart’s a Boomerang,” upcoming appearances at Jammin’ For Jaclyn and Makin Waves Fest, a national summer tour with Remember Jones and more!

published on 04/18/2019

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Makin Waves Record of the Week: "Falling Behind" By Joker’s Republic

North Jersey-based Joker’s Republic team with members of Backyard Superheroes and The Toasters to create Falling Behind, a well-crafted reggae-rock LP with elements of punk and ska. They will celebrate the release of their debut full-length, Falling Behind, on April 27 at the Brighton Bar, Long Branch, with Mephiskapheles, Backyard Superheroes and The Schwam.

published on 04/17/2019

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Makin Waves Scene Report with Will Wood, Green Knuckle Material, Dan Amato and more

Will Wood will take over Asbury Park’s Collective Art Tank from May 13 to 29 with an art exhibit, movie screening, video premiere and two concerts with his band, the Tapeworms. Also featured this week are The Tide Bends, Danny Coleman, Houston & the Dirty Rats, Debra Devi, Old Franklin Schoolhouse, Lowlight, Dentist, Rock Dance Collective and Pack the Bowl.

published on 04/10/2019

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Makin Waves Record of the Week: "Off-Beat Symphony" by Pyrenesia

From the Pyrenees Mountains, as well as Carpathians and Appalachians, comes the mixed-metered mountain mix of gypsy jazz, klezmer, old-time and swing music by Lambertville-based Pyrenesia.

published on 04/10/2019

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Makin Waves with Defiance Engine: Hogan Heroes

Reg & Jim Hogan of Defiance Engine and Daisycutter talk about their bands, including 19DRT, Solarized, Dirge, Dime Bag and Freak Theatre, and their long-lasting influential role within the New Jersey music scene, particularly the Brighton Bar. 

published on 04/03/2019

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Makin Waves Record of the Week: "Coming Home" By The New Black

The New Black’s LP, Coming Home, is as inspiring as guitarist Gabriel Hurley’s tale of perseverance and passion.

published on 04/03/2019

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Makin Waves Scene Report with Dave Mooney & Viewers Like You, Hub City Music Festival, Fourth Wave and more

This week also features New Jersey Jazz Society, Rachel Ana Dobken, Connor Bracken and the Mother Leeds Band, The Stone Pony, The Wag, Jeff Crespi, Avenel Arts Center, Joker’s Republic, Pink Mexico, Black Flamingos, Lost Culture, The Campfire Flies, Karen Mansfield, Loudy Brown, Rock ’N Raise, Erniefest and 2019 Makin Waves Concert Series.

published on 03/27/2019

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Makin Waves Record of the Week: "Tilted Directions" by Vendetta Rose

Jersey Shore rock band Vendetta Rose will celebrate the release of their four-song debut EP, Tilted Directions, on March 30 at Asbury Lanes with The Flukes and Dress Code.

published on 03/27/2019

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Makin Waves Record Roundup with Cold Weather Company, Karma Gambit, & Ezra Caspi

Bob Makin takes a look at the latest releases by with Cold Weather Company, Karma Gambi, and Ezra Caspi.

published on 03/25/2019

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Makin Waves Record of the Week: "Goin' Wild" by The Battery Electric

On March 22, The Battery Electric will release Goin’ Wild, the Asbury Park-originated soul-punk band’s first full-length album in four years. The record is a blast of fun from those Devils in Denim.

published on 03/20/2019

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Makin Waves Scene Report with Chris Pinnella, Colossal Street Jam, Billy Walton Band and more

Before he tours Florida and L.A. then heads into the studio to record his solo debut album, soaring vocalist Chris Pinnella will perform “The Billy Joel Songbook” March 23 at The Asbury hotel. This week also features Secret Sound, Green Knuckle Material, Elephant Talk, Levy & the Oaks, Avenel Arts Center, “The Eleventh Hour,” JAHK, Foxanne, 3143 Management, Holdfast Records, The New Black, Chill Smith, Eve’s Artistry, EarthShare NJ Rocks!, Sonoa, Nude Shoes, Sleep In, Cabana Wear and Carl Chesna. Photo by  Andrew Pinnella.

published on 03/14/2019

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Makin Waves Record of the Week: "Fear of a Unified Public" by Hot Blood

Asbury Park punk band Hot Blood will celebrate the release of their best-ever recording, Fear of a Unified Public, on March 30 at their hometown venue The Saint with Hammerfight and Urban Waste. The 17-song release is the band's best material yet.

published on 03/14/2019

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Makin Waves with The Bouncing Souls: 30 years of 'Crucial Moments'

Asbury Park-based The Bouncing Souls chat about the year-long celebration of their 30th anniversary with a new EP, book and world tour. 


published on 03/06/2019

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Makin Waves Record of the Week: "New Again" by Yorkshire Tenth

Trenton-based Yorkshire Tenth slash ‘n’ burn like a cross between The Alarm and Smashing Pumpkins on their debut full-length, New Again.  The band will celebrate its release on March 8 at Mill Hill Basement with Scoville and Ultra Major.

published on 03/06/2019

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Chatting with Little Feat: "As Good as a Thrill"

​​​​​​​For 50 years, Little Feat have been laying down irresistible grooves. A band’s band, their fans include Bob Dylan and members of The Rolling Stones, Grateful Dead, Widespread Panic, Dave Matthews Band, and Phish, who recently covered the band’s “Spanish Moon” in Mexico and played the entire Waiting for Columbus live album on Halloween in 2010.

published on 02/28/2019

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Makin Waves Scene Report with Atom Driver, Hot Blood, 'Jersey Rock' and more

New Brunswick-based Atom Driver will play Feb. 28 at Roxy & Dukes, Dunellen, and March 30 at Mill Hill Basement, Trenton, behind their new EP, Here They Come, the Hornets. This week also features Josh Davidson, Stone Pony Rock to the Top finals, Kosha Dillz, Dentist, Andy. B., Steve Dadaian, Lowlight, Mike Montrey Band, Secret Sound and the 2019 Makin Waves Concert Series.

published on 02/27/2019

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Makin Waves Record of the Week: Karma Gambit's "This is Probably a Mistake, But…"

Karma Gambit’s debut LP, This is Probably a Mistake, But …, is a forceful forging of signature Jack Linden folk-rock with blasts of Beatlesque/Bowie-like power-pop.  In support of the album, they will play March 10 at Crossroads, Garwood; April 6, Asbury Park Music Foundation; April 19, The Asbury hotel, and April 20, John and Peter's, New Hope.

published on 02/27/2019

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Makin Waves Record Roundup with The Vansaders, Cook Thugless, and Cyclone Static

This month, Bob Makin reviews the latest releases by The Vansaders, Cook Thugless, and Cyclone Static.

published on 02/23/2019

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Makin Waves with The Vansaders' Doug Zambon: "So Many Places...to See"

The Vansaders’ Doug Zambon talks about his adventures traveling in Cuba, Costa Rico, Mexico, Italy and more.

published on 02/20/2019

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Makin Waves Record of the Week: "The Best Is Yet To Come" by Ezra Caspi

​​​​​​​Ezra Caspi, 17, wrote, produced, recorded and performed a debut full-length, “The Best Is Yet to Come,” in a way that belies his age.

published on 02/20/2019

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Makin Waves with Experiment 34: An Artist's Duty

In age when the most daring bands seem afraid or indifferent about taking a stand against social injustice, environmental despair and the nightmare remnant of the American Dream, Asbury Park-based Experiment 34 have done that with the debut full-length, “What Dying Feels Like.”

published on 02/13/2019

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Makin Waves Record of the Week: "The Jailbirds" by Matty Carlock

Matty Carlock follows several hip-hop singles with a return to his punk and singer-songwriter roots on his debut full-length, “The Jailbirds.” In his debut full-length, Carlock captures the Jersey Sound of anthemic punk rock and rootsy songwriting. 

published on 02/13/2019

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Makin Waves with Bulletproof Belv & Matty Carlock: "All Night Long"

Influential Asbury Park collaborators Bulletproof Belv & Matty Carlock talk about their new albums, their plans in support of them, and how working together help unify the City by the Sea’s rap and rock music scenes and bring more hip-hop to its live stages. Bulletproof Belv and Matty Carlock will perform together on Feb. 16 at Asbury Lanes.

published on 02/06/2019

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Makin Waves Record of the Week: "From Scratch" by Cyclone Static

The edges of Jersey City-based trio Cyclone Static’s debut full-length, “From Scratch,” for the nurturing Mint 400 indie are sharp and very well-crafted in the tradition of Husker Du, The Pixies and Nirvana.   

published on 02/06/2019

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Makin Waves Record of the Week: "Vindictive" by Vextion

Jersey Shore hard rock band Vextion return with their long-awaited sophomore EP, “Vindictive,” their first record in nearly eight years.  They will celebrate the release of the five-song EP on Feb. 2 at The Brighton Bar in Long Branch

published on 01/30/2019

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Makin Waves Scene Report with Levy & the Oaks, The Bouncing Souls, Vendetta Rose and more

Having recently released a new single, “On the Run,” Levy & the Oaks have followed up with a video for title track of their summer EP, “Sound of the City,” which premieres here at Makin Waves. On Jan. 26, the band will record a live concert video at Asbury Park Yacht Club.This week also features Caroline Chambers, Blud Red Roses, JAHK, The Naughty Clouds, The Brothers Union, TUSK. Zack Morrison, The Stone Pony, Ezra Caspi, Pyrenesia, “One Step Back,” and New Jersey Live.

published on 01/24/2019

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Makin Waves Record of the Week: "Find Light" by Cold Weather Company

New Brunswick acoustic trio Cold Weather Company tap into the talents of several Rutgers pals to expand their harmonic acoustic sound their third LP, “Find Light.”

published on 01/24/2019

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Makin Waves Record Roundup with Rachel Ana Dobken, Jackson Pines and Bulletproof Belv

Bob Makin takes a look at recent releases by Rachel Ana Dobken, Jackson Pines and Bulletproof Belv.

published on 01/23/2019

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Makin Waves with Franke Previte & Lisa Sherman: Having the time of their lives

The talented Jersey Shore couple Franke Previte and Lisa Sherman once again have joined forces on the new production “Calling All Divas,” the musical tale of how an audition turns into a singing group that’s “stronger together.” Co-produced by Previte, an Oscar winner for “Dirty Dancing,” and starring Sherman, star of Broadway revivals of “West Side Story” and “Evita,” the show will make its Philadelphia area debut on March 2 at the Keswick Theatre in Glenside, Pa.

published on 01/16/2019

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Makin Waves Record of the Week: "Standstill" by The Vansaders

The mighty Vansaders mellow with their outstanding new acoustic LP, "Standstill." They will celebrate its release on Jan. 19 with three shows in Asbury Park, all of which are a part of Light of Day Winterfest and two of which are a part of its edition of Asbury Underground.�

published on 01/16/2019

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Makin Waves Scene Report with Light of Day Winterfest, Windows of Understanding, The Brighton Bar and more

Little Vicious are among dozens of bands playing Light of Day Winterfest. They’ll play Jan. 18 at Asbury Park Yacht Club with Rachel Ana Dobken, Molly Rhythm and Erotic Novels. Also featured are John Ginty, Deal Casino, Big Man’s Birthday Bash, Project REAL, Cold Weather Company and Karma Gambit.

published on 01/10/2019

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Makin Waves Record of the Week: "Luxe" by Cook Thugless

The seven-piece Jersey City/Brooklyn-based rap band Cook Thugless turn inward on their fourth studio LP, “Luxe.” 


published on 01/10/2019

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Makin Waves with Rachel Ana Dobken: RAD AF

Rachel Ana Dobken chats about her influential gig as curator of music at Danny Clinch Transparent Gallery in Asbury Park, as well as her new LP, “When It Happens To You.”

published on 01/02/2019

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Makin Waves Record of the Week: "Gas Station Blues & Diamond Rings" by Jackson Pines

On Jan. 11, Jackson Pines will release a five-song EP, "Gas Station Blues & Diamond Rings," a follow-up and companion piece to last year's EP, "Lost & Found." The two EPs will be combined as an LP later this year.

published on 01/02/2019

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Makin Waves: 20th Annual Makin Waves Awards

The Makin Waves Awards return for their 20th trip around the sun to honor New Jersey’s best indie and unsigned music acts.

published on 12/19/2018

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Makin Waves: The Makin Waves Dirty Dozen

For the first time since 1995, the Makin Waves Dirty Dozen returns to the New Jersey music scene.

published on 12/19/2018

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Makin Waves with Silent Knight and The Band Called FUSE: "Rise Together"

New Brunswick rapper Silent Knight has been working in and out of The Band Called FUSE for than a decade and will celebrate his annual Christmas Spectacular on Christmas Eve at Blackthorn in New Brunswick. He chats about both the band and his solo stuff in the Makin Waves Interview.

published on 12/13/2018

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Makin Waves Record of the Week: "Free Bird for the Free World" by Myles Nxbxdy

Miles Nxbxdy of Black Suburbia Music Group has released a dope new album, “Free Bird for the Free World,” which offers a ride along through some deep, dark emotions.

published on 12/13/2018

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Makin Waves Scene Report with Asbury Park Punk Rock Flea Market, Vextion, The Cryptkeeper Five and more

Asbury Park Punk Rock Flea Market returns Dec. 29 to Convention Hall with an after-party at Asbury Park Brewery. Also featured this week are The Vansaders, The Burns’ What a Wonderful Year 2K18, New Brunswick Cultural Center, New Brunswick City Market, Arroyo Art Studio, Callout, Benefit for ARM, Cold Weather Company, Firehouse Christmas, Quincy Mumford, Jay’s Jersey Jams, Pop Break Locals Christmas Party, Blow Up Radio, “OneMore with Brian Erickson,” Billy Walton Band, Electric Ballroom, Tom Flynn, TONKS, Green Planet Band, The Beagles, and Karen Hardy.

published on 12/05/2018

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Makin Waves Record of the Week: "Everyday Forever" by The Paper Jets

Veteran power-pop outfit The Paper Jets will celebrate the release of their long-awaited LP, “Everyday Forever,” on Dec. 7 at Asbury Lanes with a little help from their friends Bobby Mahoney and the Seventh Son, We’re Ghosts Now, Tara Dente & the Blind Pilots, and Dave Mooney and Viewers Like You. . Pictured from left to right are Scott Austin Miller, Michael James Virok, Frank Lettieri Jr. and Brian Erickson.

published on 12/05/2018

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Makin Waves with Erotic Novels & Weekend Quality: Busy Being Bad-Ass

The New Brunswick punk band Erotic Novels are from right to left Shannon Perez, Chris Tull and formerly Chris Pierce. Perez and Tull from Erotic Novels and the indie/punk podcast “Weekend Quality” chat about both influential entities.

published on 11/28/2018

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Makin Waves Record of the Week: "Relative Suffering" by School Drugs

In support of their Hell Minded Records debut, “Relative Suffering,” Jersey Shore-based School Drugs return on Dec. 22 to Asbury Park Brewery for Shore Style Punk Night Christmas Bash with Spinal Ramones, Stag Party, Chrome Skulls and Terminal Freaks. The band channels '80 hardcore punk with their latest release - their first for new Trenton-based indie Hall Minded Record.

published on 11/28/2018

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Makin Waves Best NJ Indie Records of 2018

Makin Waves’ annual Top 10 NJ indie album list features Screaming Females, Nalani & Sarina, Mike Montrey Band, Avery Mandeville, Deal Casino, Well Wisher, Hub City Stompers, Doc Rotten, Crazy & the Brains and Karen Mansfield, plus another 10 honorable mentions.

published on 11/21/2018

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Makin Waves Best NJ Indie Songs of 2018

Makin Waves’ 10 best NJ indie songs includes Avery Mandeville, Nalani & Sarina, Deal Casino, The Burns, Screaming Females, The Porchistas, Levy & the Oaks, Experiment 34, Bulletproof Belv & Matty Carlock, and Natalie Farrell.

published on 11/21/2018

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Makin Waves Scene Report with Asbury Park Holiday Bazaar, Lump'N'Loaf Records, Can’t Swim and more

Asbury Park Holiday Bazaar returns weekends through Dec. 23 to Convention Hall’s Grand Arcade with a tree lighting on Nov. 24. Also featured this week are Vianna Rose, Gurlzilla and Let’s Get Folked Up

published on 11/21/2018

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Makin Waves with Sonic Blume: "No One Should Have to be Hungry"

Age-defying success of teenage Sonic Blume continues with shows Nov. 16 at Asbury Park Yacht Club, Dec. 22 at House of Independents, a forthcoming video, a slew of singles in the New Year to follow two well-received EPs, and a debut LP hopefully by summer!

published on 11/15/2018

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Makin Waves Scene Report with PRINDIE Film Fest, Food for Thought, Freaky Mutant Weirdo Variety show and more

Princeton Independent Film Festival has returned with three more days of screenings and special events through Nov. 17 throughout the Princeton. Also featured this week are The Cryptkeeper Five, The Ratchets, Crazy & the Brains, Sunshine & the Rain, The Brighton Bar, and Mint 400 Records. 

published on 11/15/2018

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Makin Waves Record of the Week: "LLC" by Deal Casino

Asbury Park's Deal Casino made not one but two great records this year with the forthcoming nine-song “LLC” LP dropping Nov. 16, just five months after the four-song “Isadora Duncan” EP. 

published on 11/15/2018

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Makin Waves with Black Suburbia Music Group: Sound, culture and vision

Influential Black Suburbia Music Group have unified the Asbury Park rap and rock music scenes with mixed bills and features, along with Chris Rockwell, Chill Smith, Bulletproof Belv, Matty Carlock and others. Mainly run by the Barkley family of Jackson, who has deep roots in Asbury, Black Suburbia chat about all that and what they have coming up as an artist collective, record label and concert promotion.

published on 11/08/2018

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Makin Waves Record of the Week: "With or Without You" by Bulletproof Belv

The prolific pride of Asbury Park’s Bangs Avenue, Bulletproof Belv is back with a dope LP, ‘Without or Without You.’ Working again with Long Branch producer EL Trapo Cheese and Asbury Park singer-songwriter Matty Carlock, the rapper releases the new record on Nov. 11 with the a video for the single “Every Night.”

published on 11/08/2018

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Makin Waves with Avery Mandeville: 'And the crowd goes wild'

Indie singer-songwriter Avery Mandeville is on tour right now with alt-roots rocker Mike Frazier from Virginia. The edgy Jersey Shore singer-songwriter takes a break from the road to chat with Makin Waves!

published on 10/31/2018

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Makin Waves Record of the Week: "When It Happens to You" by Rachel Ana Dobken

Asbury Park-based multi-hyphenated talent Rachel Ana Dobken lives up to her acronym with a rad new record - a multi-instrumental mix of soul, folk, and indie rock debut full-length called “When It Happens to You.” 

published on 10/31/2018

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Makin Waves Scene Report with Franke & the Knockouts, Ellis Wilkinson, Eleanor Tallie

​​​​​​​The forthcoming Franke & the Knockouts box set, “The Complete Collection,” can be pre-ordered now at FridayMusic.com. Also featured this week are Rhyme & Reason Records, Delicate Flowers, Jenny & the Felines, Carnival of Shadows, and Milan Lazistan.

published on 10/31/2018

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Makin Waves Record of the Week: "Natality" by Natalie Farrell

Glad I finally caught up with Natalie Farrell’s four-song ‘Natality’ EP because it’s a winner.

published on 10/24/2018

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Makin Waves with Pamela Flores: ‘Women Don’t Owe You Shit’

With the bubbling bravura of Janis Joplin and earthy intelligence of Ani DiFranco, Flores woos audiences like an exotic pixie, then slays them with stunning vocal and guitar chops, as well as an inspiring passion for justice and freedom that has been lending itself more and more to her music. While her recording and video output has been minimal, that will change in 2019, she said. And my, does she have a lot to say!

published on 10/24/2018

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Makin Waves Record Roundup with Well Wisher, Wetbrain and Hidden Cabins

Bob Makin takes a look at the latest releases from Well Wisher, Wetbrain, and Hidden Cabins.

published on 10/24/2018

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Makin Waves with Wetbrain: Something Artsy This Way Comes

The prolific pop-art band Wetbrain are back with their third release in less than two years, “Things You Think You Thought You Knew.” 

published on 10/17/2018

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Makin Waves Record of The Week: "Trip Around The Sun" by The Grip Weeds

Seminal '60s-inspired rockers The Grips Weeds have made what may be their best album ever, “Trip Around the Sun,” at their own House of Vibes studio in Highland Park.  They will celebrate its release on Oct. 20 at Lovin' Cup in Rochester, N.Y.

published on 10/17/2018

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Makin Waves Scene Report with The Paper Jets, Miles Nxbxdy, Black Flamingos and more

Makin Waves Scene Report with The Paper Jets, Miles Nxbxdy, Black Flamingos and more. This week also features Steve Forbert, Lisa Bouchelle and Patrick Fitzsimmons.

published on 10/17/2018

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Makin Waves with Evangelia: "In the Digital Age"

Evangelia will celebrate the release of her fifth single in less than a year, “Windowseat,” which is in collaboration with the L.A. indie electronic duo Sleeping Lion,  on Nov. 1 at Bowery Electric in New York City.

published on 10/10/2018

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Makin Waves Record of the Week: The Hidden Cabins Band EP by Hidden Cabins

Hidden Cabins will celebrate the release of their new EP on North Jersey-based Pyrrhic Victory Records on Oct. 13 at The Harp ‘N’ Bard in Clifton.

published on 10/10/2018

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Makin Waves Scene Report with Asbury Park Punk Rock Flea Market and much more

Also featured this week are Butch Pielka Memorial Concert, Rhyme & Reason Records, Live at the Fillmore, Taylor Tote Band, NJarts.net benefit, Blowup Radio’s “Banding Together,” Pattenburg House Breast Cancer Benefit, RGD, and Mike Herz.

published on 10/04/2018

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Makin Waves with Des and the Swagmatics: Keep on the Sunny Side

Whether playing super soulful funkified originals or making covers by Prince, Aretha Franklin, Stevie Wonder, Bob Marley and others their own, Des and the Swagmatics got it goin’ on, and they share it with Makin Waves!

published on 10/03/2018

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Makin Waves Record of the Week: "Things You Think You Thought You Knew" by Wetbrain

Prolific progressive pop band Wetbrain are back with their second LP in as many years, “Things You Think You Thought You Knew.”

published on 10/03/2018

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Makin Waves Record Roundup: Doc Rotten, The Mercury Brothers, and Sonic Blume

This month Bob Makin takes a look at recent releases from Doc Rotten, The Mercury Brothers, and Sonic Blume.

published on 09/27/2018

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Makin Waves with Chris Rockwell: Jersey Shore Renaissance Man

Chris Rockwell is an influential Jersey Shore-based rapper, poet, spoken word artist, event promoter and visual artist who has several events coming up that he chats about with Makin Waves.

published on 09/26/2018

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Makin Waves Record of the Week: "This Is Fine" by Well Wisher

Natalie Newbold returns with another batch of strong indie-pop songs on ‘This Is Fine,’ the debut full-length of her latest band, Well Wisher.

published on 09/26/2018

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Makin Waves Scene Report with North Jersey Indie Rock Festival, Jersey City Rocks, Saturday Afternoon Song Swap and more

Also featured this week are Parlor Mob, Night Birds, School Drugs, Randy Now’s Mancave, Jeff Rusnak, Backyard Superheroes, Vessel of Light and Bob Lanza Band.

published on 09/26/2018

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Makin Waves with Pepperwine: ‘Power of Females’ and other ‘Bright Ideas’

The funky pop of Asbury Park-based Pepperwine keeps moving them forward. The band has  a slew of muy caliente shows coming up in support of their debut full-length, “Bright Ideas,” including two shows with fellow female funk-popsters Nalani & Sarina on Sept. 22 at Ladybug Festival in Delaware and Oct. 6 at Asbury Lanes also with headliner Taylor Tote Band.

published on 09/19/2018

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Makin Waves Scene Report with Sniffling Indie Kids, ‘The Eleventh Hour!,’ Foes of Fern & more


Sniffling Indie Kids is one of five New Jersey-based indie labels that have organized the third annual North Jersey Indie Rock Festival on Oct. 6 at White Eagle Hall and FM Bar in Jersey City. Their acts will include LKFFCT, Tru, The Vaughns, and Professor Caveman. The other labels are Mint 400, Rhyme & Reason, Little Dickman and State Champion. Also featured this week are LKFFCT, Tru, The Beagles and Tigerman.

published on 09/19/2018

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Makin Waves Record of the Week: Professor Caveman ‘Vol. 4’

New Brunswick jam ‘n’ groovers Professor Caveman’s latest, “Vol. 4,” is a venture into a jazz-funk fusion for the indie rockers that sounds like a cross between the Latin jazz-rock of Santana, the groovedelic brilliance of Prince and the nonsensical funky fun of Primus.


published on 09/19/2018

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Makin Waves with Yawn Mower: 'Hey Babe, It’s Local Summer'

The Asbury Park-based indie-rock two-piece Yawn Mower are celebrating “Local Summer” with a new video for that track from their fourth original EP "Could Eat, Would Sleep" premiering here at Makin Waves.

published on 09/12/2018

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Makin Waves Record of the Week: "There Is No Language in Our Love" by Erotic Novels

New Brunswick punk trio Erotic Novels have released “There Is No Language in Our Love,” their debut for Lansing, Mich.-based GTG Records.

published on 09/12/2018

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Makin Waves Scene Report with Central Jersey Jazz Festival, Indian Summer Festival, Ancient Babies and more


Makin Waves Scene Report with Central Jersey Jazz Festival, Indian Summer festival, Ancient Babies and more​​​​​​​. Also featured this week are North Jersey Indie Festival, Mint 400 Records, Bruce Wacker Tribute at the Stone Pony, and Russtival.

published on 09/12/2018

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Makin Waves Scene Report with ROCK New Brunswick, Oysterfest, Brighton Bar and more

Hub City Sounds: ROCK New Brunswick returns Sept. 8 to Boyd Park. Also featured this week are Pepperwine, Colossal Street Jam, “A Celebration of the Jersey Sound,” Revolutionary Rewind and Nonstop Show Group.

published on 09/05/2018

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Makin Waves with Nalani & Sarina: 'We actually like each other'

Twinergetic folk ‘n’ funk soul-pop duo Nalani & Sarina have kicked off their first-ever national tour with local stops coming up at ROCK New Brunswick, The Bitter End, Asbury Lanes, Raritan Valley Community College and Asbury Park Yacht Club.

published on 09/05/2018

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Makin Waves Record of the Week: "II" by The Mercury Brothers

Asbury Park-based The Mercury Brothers’ sophomore LP, “II,” features another batch of eight well-crafted, edgy roots-rockin’ songs.

published on 09/05/2018

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Makin Waves with Derrick Braxton

New Brunswick scenester Derrick Braxton shares his love of his hometown, whose music will be celebrated on Sept. 8 in Boyd Park with the fifth annual Hub City Sounds: ROCK New Brunswick, an event he has helped to organize, along with an after party, where’ll spin at Fatto Americano.

published on 08/29/2018

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Makin Waves Record of the Week: "Illusion to Choose" by Doc Rotten

Now this is what I call Makin Waves: release three records in a less than year, then tour Japan and Europe for two months. Ladies and gentlemen: Doc Rotten!

published on 08/29/2018

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Makin Waves Scene Report with Rhyme & Reason Records, Ultra Major, Deal Casino and more

Also featured this week are WRATFEST, Roadside Graves, Keith Kenny, The Wag, Wishbone, and Arts on the Hudson Fest.

published on 08/29/2018

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Makin Waves Record Roundup - Chris Rockwell, Levy & the Oaks, The Burns, and Avery Mandeville

This month's Makin Waves Record Roundup finds Bob looking at releases by Chris Rockwell, Levy & the Oaks, The Burns, and Avery Mandeville.

published on 08/25/2018

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Makin Waves with Bobby Mahoney and the Seventh Son

Bobby Mahoney chats about opening for Bon Jovi twice this spring in front of 20,000 people, a few of stacked shows coming up, and recording and touring plans. Here's a photos from when the band rocked Newark’s Prudential Center earlier this year, opening for Bon Jovi. Pictured from left to right are Zack Sandler, Andrew Saul, Mahoney, James McIntosh, and Jon Chang-Soon. PHOTO BY ZACK MORRISON

published on 08/22/2018

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Makin Waves Record of the Week: "Night Swimming" by Dentist

Beloved Asbury indie trio Dentist will celebrate their homecoming from their first national tour on Aug. 24 at Asbury Park Yacht Club with Sunshine Spazz. The tour was in support of their Cleopatra Records debut album, “Night Swimming,” the Makin Waves Record of the Week.

published on 08/22/2018

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Makin Waves Scene Report with Billy Hector, Chris Pierce, Hub City Sounds and more

Billy Hector has a hot new CD out entitled “Some Day Baby,” which he’ll celebrate the release of Aug. 25 at the Wonder Bar in Asbury Park. This week also features MOTO Records and Etherius.

published on 08/22/2018

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Makin Waves with Honah Lee

The great Trenton band Honah Lee are celebrating their 10th anniversary on Aug. 18 with a video shoot for the new tune, “You Never Know,” and a party at Mill Hill Basement with fellow Trenton rockers The Cryptkeeper Five, New York City’s Statues of Liberty, and GTG label mates The Plurals.

published on 08/15/2018

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Makin Waves Record of the Week: "Beach Karma" by Sonic Blume

The young Jersey Shore dream-pop, shoe-gaze band Sonic Blume’s have released their sophomore EP, “Beach Karma,” on Asbury Park-based MOTO Records before their 18th birthdays! It features five songs and four interludes that recall the grand old Brit sounds of alt-rock pioneers The Smiths, The Cure, Depeche Mode and Joy Division.

published on 08/15/2018

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Makin Waves with Bulletproof Belv & Matty Carlock, Drew the Recluse & The Cold Seas, Murdock & Cook Thugless and more


In the wake of their local hit, “Dark City Lights,” Bulletproof Belv and Matty Carlock are about to drop a follow-up single, “F Being Friends,” while readying records of their own. Also featured this week in special all-hip-hop edition of the Scene Report are Chill Smith, Mello B, Black Surburbia Music and Silent Knight. 

published on 08/15/2018

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Makin Waves with Tara Dente

Asbury Park singer-songwriter Tara Dente chats about her roots, her records and other triumphs, her great band (featuring members of The Burns, Levy & the Oaks, and Remember Jones), and her upcoming appearance at the second annual Makin Waves Roots Fest on Aug. 11 at Asbury Park Brewery, and shows at Rockwood Music Hall (Sept. 6) and The Asbury Hotel (Sept. 7). 

published on 08/08/2018

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Makin Waves Record of the Week: “Happy Birthday, Avery Jane” by Avery Mandeville

Jersey Shore-based Avery Mandeville’s full-length debut for Telegraph Hill Records is a force with which to be reckoned! She will celebrate the release of the latest video, “Get Real,” on Aug. 11 at Pearl St. Consignment and Custom Clothes in Red Bank.

published on 08/08/2018

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Makin Waves Scene Report with Taylor Tote, Lisa Bouchelle, Ella Ross and more

Taylor Tote premieres the video to her latest single, “This Ain’t Love,” this week in Makin Waves. Also featured this week are “Jersey Rock Earbuds Mixtape” and Project BWQ.

published on 08/08/2018

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Makin Waves with Asbury Park Surf Music Festival: Still a thrill

Asbury Park Surf Music Festival returns Aug. 16 to 19 to Anchor’s Bend, Convention Hall’s Grand Arcade, the Wonder Bar and The Asbury hotel. The fifth annual Asbury Park Surf Music Festival will feature Satan’s Pilgrims, Surfer Joes & His Band, The Volcanics, Frankie & the Pool Boys, Black Flamingos, The Men in Grey Suits, Great White Caps and more at the main event on Aug. 18 at Anchor’s Bend, as well as dozens of vendors and special activities throughout Convention Hall, plus three other days of events throughout Asbury Park, as well as Highlands. Find out more at www.apsurfmusicfest.com. PHOTO BY GEORGE KOPP

published on 08/02/2018

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Makin Waves Record of the Week: "You" EP by The Burns

The “You” EP, Jersey Shore-based The Burns channel some great ’70s rock to tell the tale of a restless heart that needs to find a home. The Burns will celebrate the release of their EP on Aug. 3 at Asbury Lanes in a joint celebration with Telegraph Hill label mates Levy & the Oaks. Rachel Ana Dobken, the Black Suburbia Music Group and label mate Avery Mandeville will share the bill. PHOTO BY KEVIN GROSKRANZ 

published on 08/02/2018

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Makin Waves Scene Report with Rachel Ana Dobken, Asbury Park Hip-Hop Fest, This Year’s Comeback and more

Multi-hyphenated Asbury Park-based talent Rachel Ana Dobken, the music curator at Danny Clinch Transparent Gallery, has launched an Indiegogo campaign to finance the release of her next record, “When It Happens to You,” to be released Sept. 8 at Asbury Lanes. Also featured this week are Asbury Park’s Universal African Festival, Pyrrhic Victory Recordings, Green Knuckle Material and Drive, Kid, and more. PHOTO BY JUSTIN FVLLER

published on 08/01/2018

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Makin Waves with Doc Rotten

Trenton punks Doc Rotten continue their mad quest to be the hardest-working band in New Jersey with a slew of local dates, including the Makin Waves Summer Concert Series at Asbury Park Brewery on July 28, before they jet to Japan and Europe for fall tours.

published on 07/25/2018

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Makin Waves Record of the Week: "Sound of the City" by Levy & the Oaks

Levy & the Oaks’ six-song follow-up to their self-titled 2016 full-length debut is a change in direction for the Asbury Park three-piece.

published on 07/25/2018

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Makin Waves Scene Report with Carolyn Marie, Chris Pinnella and Ray Andersen

Having released her self-titled debut LP on July 1, dance-pop diva Carolyn Marie will play the after party of the sold-out Stone Pony Summer Stage show Boy George & Culture Club on Aug. 3 inside the club.  Also featured in this week’s Scene Report is a look at the new songwriters circle at Clancy’s Tavern in Neptune that kicks off July 26 and continues monthly.

published on 07/25/2018

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Makin Waves Record Roundup with Eryn, Crazy & The Brains, Ropetree, and RocknRoll Hi-Fives

Bob Makin and Makin Waves takes a look at recent releases by Eryn, Crazy & The Brains, Ropetree, and RocknRoll Hi-Fives.

published on 07/24/2018

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Makin Waves with Chris Brown: Down with the bartending bard

Asbury Park Singer-songwriter, bartender-bar manager Chris Brown chats about his lifelong adventures in Asbury Park, including two upcoming Makin Waves shows July 28 at Asbury Park Brewery and Sept. 7 at Asbury Park Yacht Club; the second installment of the “Let’s Get Folked Up” songwriter rounds he is co-producing, and more.

published on 07/18/2018

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Makin Waves Record of the Week: Chris Rockwell’s ‘Ten Years in the Breaking’

Makin Waves finally catches up to Jersey Shore rapper Chris Rockwell’s latest LP, “Ten Years in the Breaking,” to preview a slew of summer shows with his new band, the Ballroom Riot.

published on 07/18/2018

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Makin Waves Scene Report with Mint 400 Records, a tribute to George Theiss, and Etherius

This week’s Scene Report includes the latest news from North Jersey indie Mint 400 Records, the sad news of the passing of George Thiess, the leader of Bruce Springsteen’s first band, plus wassup with the instrumental metal band Etherius. Asbury Park-based The Vice Rags have signed with the North Jersey indie Mint 400 Records, home to fellow AP rockers Yawn Mower and indie veterans Fairmont. PHOTO BY ROB FITZGERALD

published on 07/18/2018

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Makin Waves with Molly Rhythm

Molly Rhythm will be part of Makin Waves’ “Trenton Makes Takeover” of Asbury Park Brewery on July 14 with Hub City Stompers, The Cryptkeeper Five, Experiment 34 and Chalk & the Beige Americans. Pictured from left to right bassist Lori, drummer Zach, saxophonist Jeff, guitarist Bern, vocalist Nikki, vocalist Elissa and trombonist Erinn. On the eve of two great gigs on July 13 at the Warped Tour at BB&T Pavilion in Camden and July 14 at Makin Waves’ “Trenton Makes Takeover” of Asbury Park Brewery, that edgy, eclectic septet Molly Rhythm chat about their love music and hatred of ICE.

published on 07/11/2018

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Makin Waves Record of the Week: Eryn’s ‘Lady E’

 Bluesy bombshell Eryn returns with “Lady E,” a salute to’60s and ’70s soul and R&B.

published on 07/11/2018

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Makin Waves Scene Report with Sonic Blume, ManDancing, Avery Mandeville and more

Sonic Blume will celebrate the release of their second record, “Beach Karma,” on MOTO Records on July 14 at Asbury Lanes. Also featured this week are “OneMore with Brian Erickson,” Lex Rex and The Dragons and Best Ex on the Warped Tour’s Shiragirl Stage, Queen City Film Festival, The Skullers and We May Be Right.

published on 07/11/2018

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Makin Waves with The Cryptkeeper Five: "Trenton makes and takes over"

Together since 1997, The Cryptkeeper Five just keep getting better and better, as does the Trenton music scene that spawned them despite a recent tragedy that will be overcome! 

published on 07/04/2018

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Makin Waves Record of the Week: "Out in the Weedz" by Crazy & the Brains

Jersey City-based Crazy & the Brains are pictured rockin’ their hometown’s White Eagle Hall. They will play the Makin Waves Summer Concert Series on July 28 at Asbury Park Brewery with Hot Blood, Little Vicious, Doc Rotten and Chris Brown. Fans of the band have been waiting three years for new Brain matter, but the five-song EP, “Out in the Weedz,” produced by The Bouncing Souls’ Pete Steinkopf was so worth the wait. 

published on 07/04/2018

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Makin Waves Scene Report with Dentist, Lowlight, The Vaughns and more

Asbury Park indie rockers Dentist have announced a national tour in support of their forthcoming third LP, “Night Swimming,” a label debut for L.A.-based Cleopatra Records. Also featured this week are Hub City Stompers, Silent Culture, Sean Kiely, and Joshua Branson. Photo by Bob Makin.

published on 07/04/2018

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Makin Waves Scene Report with Evangelia, Cook Thugless and ’13 Reasons Why’

This week’s Scene Report also features Parlor Mob, P-Funk North, Ser Xerri, Mike Daly & the Planets, Ferentz and the Felons and more

published on 06/27/2018

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Makin Waves Record of the Week: "The Saints of Asbury on their Stone Pony" by Ropetree

The veteran Jersey Shore hard rock band Ropetree will celebrate “The Saints of Asbury on their Stone Pony,” their second LP and sixth release since 1999, on June 30 at The Saint, Asbury Park, with Vextion, Lower the Veil and December Morning.

published on 06/27/2018

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Makin Waves with Inventure

Jersey Shore independent metal-core act Inventure return to the Warped Tour for the fourth time in five years on July 13 at BB&T Pavilion in Camden.  Inventure continue to dominate the Jersey metal landscape with a spot on the Warped Tour just a couple of a months after their release of their full-length debut LP, “Sociopath.”

published on 06/27/2018

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Makin Waves Scene Report with The Stone Pony’s Butch Pielka, Eryn, Just 6 Hours and more

Stone Pony founder Robert “Butch” Pielka, right, died on June 8 after a long illness. Many friends, such as Boccigalupe & the Badboys vocalist-keyboardist Tony Amato, also pictured, pay tribute to the influential soon-to-be Asbury Angel in this week’s Scene Report. Photo courtesy of Tony Amato.  Also featured this week are the new ‘Jersey Rock Podcast,’ Jernee Mill, and Blackthorn in New Brunswick.

published on 06/20/2018

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Makin Waves with latewaves: "Nobody plays to just the sound guy in AP"

A veteran of a couple of touring bands, Mikey Pellegrino of the Asbury Park indie-rock trio latewaves chats about, among other things, returning to the Warped Tour to play July 14 on the Full Sail Stage at PNC Bank Arts Center, Holmdel.

published on 06/20/2018

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Makin Waves Record of the Week: "Re-Introducing The RocknRoll Hi-Fives" by The RocknRoll Hi-Fives

New Jersey’s favorite family band, The RocknRoll Hi-Fives, return with four new songs on their full-length debut, “Re-Introducing The RocknRoll Hi-Fives,” which also features six older favorites. They will celebrate the release of their full-length debut, “Re-Introducing The RocknRoll Hi-Fives” on Asbury Park-based Little Dickman Records, June 24 at Mercury Lounge, New York City, with label mates Lost Boy.

published on 06/20/2018

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Makin Waves with Cook Thugless

New Brunswick-originated Cook Thugless chat up their roots, their dope blend of hip-hop, jazz, funk, rock and hysterical stage antics, their many side projects, their hand in the upcoming launch of the Makin Waves Summer Concert Series at Asbury Park Brewery, and the next fillings in their eclectic catalog.

published on 06/13/2018

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Makin Waves Record of the Week: "Isadora Duncan" by Deal Casino

Deal Casino latest EP, “Isadora Duncan,” features four new songs that showcase the Asbury Park-based bands maturation as songwriters, while doing justice to their amazing live show.

published on 06/13/2018

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Makin Waves Scene Report with JAHK, Asbury Park Football Club, Asbury Park Music Foundation and more

JAHK will release a new single, the upbeat but karmic “Round,” on June 18. Photo by Phil D'Auria. Also featured in the Scene Report are Makin Waves Summer Concert Series at Asbury Park Brewery, Stag Party’s record release party, Co-Op Communique’s latest indie compilation, Brendan Fletcher’s benefit for Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, and Christian singer-songwriter Aly Giglio. 

published on 06/13/2018

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Makin Waves with The Brixton Riot

A chat with veteran Jersey indie rockers The Brixton Riot about past feats, latest doings and future glories. 

published on 06/06/2018

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Makin Waves Record of the Week: "Porch Drive" by The Porchistas

This album has one of my favorite new songs on it, “The Abe Vigoda Polka.” Hysterical! Go see The Porchistas play it live on June 8 at Tierney’s Tavern, Montclair, along with the rest of “Porch Drive.”  

published on 06/06/2018

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Makin Waves Scene Report with Ropetree, Moto Records, Songwriters on the Beach and more

In addition to the premiere of Toms River-based hard rock band Ropetree’s new video for “So Bad,” the second single from their forthcoming LP, “The Saints of Asbury Park on Their Stone Pony,” this week’s Scene Report also includes news about The West End Weekly summer concert series in Long Branch and the Second Annual Pulse Memorial Benefit for Asbury Park’s Project R.E.A.L. HIV outreach, LBGT and LBGT youth center. 

published on 06/06/2018

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Makin Waves Scene Report with Jahk, cB3, Karen Mansfield and more

Jahk performs May 19 at the Stone Pony in Asbury Park during “Honoring Powerhouse Females,” an all-star tribute concert that benefitted Planned Parenthood.  Also featured in this week’s Scene Report are Homeless Apians, Karmic Juggernaut, Predator Dub Assassins, and Franke Previte & Lisa Sherman. 

published on 05/30/2018

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Makin Waves Record of the Week: Gatherers' "We Are Alive Beyond Repair"

Bayonne-based Gatherers have released “We Are Alive Beyond Repair,” their second LP for Equal Vision Records and fourth studio release overall since 2012. In support of the new album, Gatherers have embarked on a national tour that brings them June 6 to The Saint in Asbury Park.

published on 05/30/2018

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Makin Waves Record Roundup with Nalani & Sarina and Elk City

I usually can tell within the first 30 seconds of a song whether I want to write about a new band or one I’ve never heard before. I’ll forward through about four songs until something strikes me, and if it doesn’t by then, I move on. 

published on 05/26/2018

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Makin Waves with Helen O'Shea

It’s Mother’s Day, and Princeton-based Irish rocker Helen O’Shea is enjoying her two children, Lauren and Luke, and her husband, Paul, while taking a wee break from making music with her two bands: the original “AmeriCeltiCana” act, The Shanakees, and the traditional Irish outfit, The Shenanigans. Before balancing the life of motherhood and music, O’Shea also juggled a career in medicine as an obstetrician and then as a professor at Montreal’s prestigious McGill University. At the request of her two children, she gave up her medical and teaching careers to focus on them. 

published on 05/26/2018

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Makin Waves with The Cold Seas and gods

Asbury Lanes reopens for its first full weekend on May 25 with The Cold Seas, gods and Wyland. The Cold Seas and gods chat about the high-profile gig and more. 

published on 05/23/2018

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Makin Waves Scene Report with Deal Casino, Molly Rhythm, Hi-Tide Recordings and more

Deal Casino will celebrate the release of their latest EP, “Isadora Duncan,” on June 16 at House of Independents with Well Wisher, Sonic Blume and Haunt Club. Also featured in the weekly return of the Makin Waves Scene Report are Inventure, latewaves, VANISH, The Stolen, Rhyme & Reason Records and BlowUpRadio.com’s ‘Rock Against Hate’ compilation.

published on 05/24/2018

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Makin Waves Record of the Week: Frankenstein 3000's "The Blunt Truth"

rankenstein 3000 have released their ninth studio album, “The Blunt Truth,” which they’ll celebrate on June 1 at the Brighton Bar in Long Branch, along with the 20th anniversary of their label, Main Man Records.

published on 05/23/2018

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Makin Waves with Doug 'Sluggo' Vizthum of Mr. Payday, Pleased Youth, EMF, 'The Slugger' and more

This week's Makin Waves contains a chat with Doug “Sluggo” Vizthum, a long and vital part of the New Brunswick music scene with bands Pleased Youth, Lunar Bear Ensemble, Bad Karma and Mr. Payday, host of the “Flexible Vinyl” radio show on WRSU, and a concert promoter whose latest endeavor is EMF Productions.

published on 05/16/2018

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Makin Waves Record of the Week: Naughty Clouds' "Everything’s Hard"

 The singing-songwriting team of all-star Jersey drummer Ray Kubian and Brooklyn indie folk-rocker Alexis Moon form the new two-piece Naughty Clouds, whose debut LP, “Everything’s Hard,” is a treasure chest of garage-rockin’ nuggets.

published on 05/16/2018

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Makin Waves Scene Report with Jam N Groove Fest, Let’s Get Folked Up, Hub City Stompers, The Vaughns and more

The Scene Report, which returns to weekly starting next week, also features coLAB Arts, Remember Jones, LKFFCT, The Barrbarians, Motor City Revue and Pack the Bowl.

published on 05/09/2018

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Makin Waves Record of the Week: Nalani & Sarina’s ‘The Circle’

Nalani and Sarina Bolton have a new album, “The Circle,” and their own new label, Telepathy Records, which will be distributed by Kobalt. All will be celebrated May 10 at The Bitter End in New York City and May 11 at The Queen in Wilmington, Del.

published on 05/09/2018

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Makin Waves with The Dead Flowers

New Brunswick-based classic rockers The Dead Flowers will cash in one of the prizes they won from the Stone Pony’s Rock to the Top Contest when they return to the Asbury Park venue as a headliner on May 4. 

published on 05/02/2018

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Makin Waves Record of the Week: Above the Moon’s ‘Patterns You Create’

Madison-based Above the Moon return with their third EP, “Patterns You Create,” which they’ll play live May 15, Van Gogh’s Ear, Union; May 18, Hoboken Elks Club, and May 22, Arlene’s Grocery, New York City.

published on 05/02/2018

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Makin Waves with Steve Van Zandt

In the midst of a tour to raise funds and awareness for his Rock and Roll Forever Foundation’s TeachRock curriculum, Steve Van Zandt again will be inducted on May 6 into the New Jersey Hall of Fame, having entered in 2012 as a member of Bruce Springteen’s E Street Band.

published on 04/25/2018

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Makin Waves Record Roundup with Elk City, Exmaid, Doc Rotten and more

Due to time constraints, Makin Waves has been limited to one record review per week, affectionately dubbed the Record of the Week. This week, several worthy platters come under the musical microscope for a new quarterly feature called The Makin Waves Record Roundup. They include Elk City, Exmaid, Secretary Legs, Doc Rotten, and Secret Sound. Look for another Record Roundup by summer’s end. 

published on 04/25/2018

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Makin Waves with Brian Fallon

Brian Fallon talks about this new solo records, “Sleepwalkers,” his upcoming reunion with The Gaslight Anthem, and his appreciation for his appreciation for New Jersey.

published on 04/18/2018

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Makin Waves Record of the Week: Yawn Mower's "Could Eat, Would Sleep"

Asbury two-piece Yawn Mower return with “Could Eat, Would Sleep,” their fourth EP since 2016, which they’ll celebrate with a 420 show at The Saint. 

published on 04/18/2018

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Makin Waves with Chris Pierce

Influential New Brunswick scenester Chris Pierce plays in five bands; owns a recording/rehearsal studio; books, promotes and does sound at the Court Tavern, and genuinely cares about the New Brunswick music scene. On April 13, Hub City Music Festival will salute him at “An Evening with Volume IV,” an intimate concert in his studio with his and his friends’ bands. 

published on 04/11/2018

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Makin Waves Record of the Week: Hub City Stompers’ ‘Haters Dozen’

Hub City Stompers return with their “Haters Dozen” LP on the Austin indie Altercation Records, the home to the Asbury Park acts Lost in Society and The Obvious. A slew of Stompers dates will follow.

published on 04/11/2018

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Makin Waves Scene Report with Hub City Music Festival, Hub City Stompers, Let’s Get Folked Up and more

In addition to what’s in the headline, the latest Scene Report includes the Makin Waves 2018 Concert Series, Springsteen Symposium, Asbury Park Music + Film Festival, Bobby Mahoney and the Seventh Son, ManDancing, LEEDS, Asbury Park Music Foundation, Secret Sound, Mike Montrey Band, Carl Palmer of ELP, The Mylars, Project/Object, Baron Praxis, Jammin’ for Jaclyn, Unlovable, Frankenstein 3000, and Jeff Crespi

published on 04/04/2018

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Makin Waves Record of the Week: Just 6 Hours’ ‘Sober’

Jersey Shore-based alt-rock band Just 6 Hours will celebrate the release of their sophomore EP, “Sober,” on April 14 at the Brighton Bar, Long Branch.

published on 04/04/2018

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Makin Waves with Monster Magnet

Founding Monster Magnet mastermind Dave Wyndorf talks about the legendary Red Bank-based band’s 11th album, “Mindfucker,” a look at how the world has gone insane in the age of social media , which bad guys use to lie, while the rest play the fame game or are lulled to sleep with phones in hand. To support the MC5/Stooges-influenced record, Monster Magnet will play Philly, Starland and BK before jetting to Europe to perform for enthusiastic crowds for whom rock still rules.

published on 03/28/2018

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Makin Waves Record of the Week: Lowlight’s ‘Born to Run’

Talk about chutzpah! Asbury Park-based alt-roots rockers Lowlight bravely entitled their new EP “Born to Run.” But Chrissie Hynde and Danny Clinch love them nonetheless, having booked them for an East Coast tour and another stop at Transparent Gallery.

published on 03/28/2018

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Makin Waves with Williams Honor

Williams Honor, the Jersey Shore’s only modern country duo, are back home for a while after successfully investing in their careers in Nashville with two charting singles. They are recording a follow-up to their independent self-titled album when not playing shows, such as the upcoming Makin Waves 30th Anniversary Party on March 31 at the Wonder Bar.

published on 03/21/2018

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Makin Waves Record of the Week: Monster Magnet's "Mindfucker"

Beloved Red Bank hard rockers Monster Magnet return with one of their most fun commentary albums to date, “Mindfucker,” a covert statement about how we’re all fucked if we don’t put our minds together to make things better. Fueled by the Detroit rock of MC5 and The Stooges, as well as Hawkwind and Kiss, “Mindfucker” will be a trip live at three upcoming area shows.

published on 03/22/2018

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Makin Waves with Deal Casino

While readying their fourth EP and second LP for spring and then eventual release, Deal Casino will hone the material live on Wednesdays at a residency at Langosta Lounge in their base of Asbury Park. They also will perform March 16 at Asbury Park Brewery with Modern Chemistry and March 31 at the Makin Waves 30th Anniversary Party at the Wonder Bar with Williams Honor, The Vansaders, The Upstage Jam Band, Colossal Street Jam, Nalani & Sarina and many more.

published on 03/15/2018

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Makin Waves Record of the Week: Joe Petillo’s "Long Journey Home"

Having cut his teeth as a member of the late Upstage co-owner Margaret Potter’s house band, the Distractions, at the mythical Asbury Park venue, Upstage Jam Band co-founder Joe Petillo has made his dream of 40 years come true with the local star-studded release of  ‘Long Journey Home.’

published on 03/15/2018

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Makin Waves with The Wooden Soldiers

Makin Waves takes you back to 1987 and the release of one of the best indie records ever made by a Jersey act: The Wooden Soldiers’ “(hippies, punks and rubber men).” The 30th anniversary of the influential release will be celebrated with a performance by the band on April 7 at The Court Tavern in New Brunswick during an ’80s reunion that also will feature Chris Harford, Jigs & the Pigs, Don Dazzo of Whirling Dervishes and a reincarnation of Spy Gods. The show is one of 22 to be presented by Hub City Musical throughout April to benefit Elijah’s Promise. 

published on 03/07/2018

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Makin Waves Record of the Week: The Dean Ween Group’s ‘Deaner Rock 2’

The Dean Ween Group return with their sophomore LP, “rock,” a mix of instrumentals, covers and funny lyrical tracks.

published on 03/07/2018

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Makin Waves Scene Report with Bobby Mahoney and the Seventh Son, The Skullers, Tapia, Exmaid, Dentist, Doc Rotten, Chris Rockwell and more

The latest Scene Report is a fat one that features several of New Jersey’s buzzing bands and can’t miss events.

published on 02/28/2018

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Makin Waves Record of the Week: Senses Fail’s ‘If There Is a Light, It Will Find You’

Ridgewood-originated Senses Fail’s cathartically confessional LP, “If There Is a Light, It Will Find You,” once again mines the mania of front man James “Buddy” Nielsen’s imaginative mind.

published on 02/28/2018

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Makin Waves Scene Report with Elk City, Yung Wu and more

In this week’s Scene Report, find out about Elk City, Yung Wu, more Bar/None Records news, the Makin Waves 2018 Concert Series, Levy & the Oaks, Secretary Legs, Stephanie Chin, and River Monsters

published on 02/22/2018

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Makin Waves Record of the Week: Brian Fallon’s ‘Sleepwalkers’

What a busy year 2018 is turning out to be for Brian Fallon, who is touring the world through May in support of his sophomore solo album, “Sleepwalkers,” and then again with a summer reunion of New Brunswick-originated The Gaslight Anthem.

published on 02/21/2018

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Makin Waves with Sharief Hobley

New Brunswick favorite son and Makin Waves’ 2017 Male Artist of the Year Sharief Hobley chats about his illustrious career as a session man and touring musician with the likes of Michael Jackson, Kanye West, John Legend, and Alicia Keys, and the fun he’s had in such great Hub City acts Knew Breed, Spy Gods, Fried Ice Cream and now Sharief in Burgundy. 

published on 02/14/2018

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Makin Waves Record of the Week: Screaming Females' 'All at Once'

​​​​​​​Screaming Females return next week with “All at Once,” their seventh studio LP for Don Giovanni Records, and a celebratory three-night stand at Jersey City’s Monty Hall.

published on 02/14/2018

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Makin Waves Scene Report

This week’s Scene Report includes The Burns, the Asbury Park jam scene, Sink Tapes, The Clydes, a new film series at the Brighton Bar, the continuation of 95.9 the Rat’s “Jersey Rock” Showcase, WFDU 98.1’s “Signal to Noise,” coLAB Arts, Second Arrows, Feeny, and Miz

published on 02/08/2018

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Makin Waves Record of the Week: Karen Mansfield’s ‘Thistle & Boon’

Karen Mansfield’s full-length debut album, “Thistle & Boon,” drops Feb. 14, but Makin Waves has a review now. 

published on 02/08/2018

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Makin Waves with The World/Inferno Friendship Society

On the eve of dates in Philly and Jersey City, Jack Terricloth of Brooklyn-based The World/Inferno Friendship Society talks about the band’s growth from a bunch of misfit pranksters in New Brunswick to a prime example of how to endure within the DIY scene.

published on 02/01/2018

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Makin Waves Record of the Week: Black Wail’s ‘Chromium Homes’

Jersey City-based Black Wail have released three EPs since forming in 2014, but their six-song debut for hometown label Rhyme & Reason Records is their best work yet.

published on 02/01/2018

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Makin Waves Scene Report with Nalani & Sarina, Jersey Rock, Colossal Street Jam, Karen Mansfield, The Dead Flowers and more

Also featured in this week’s Scene Report are Billy Bash 2018, Lowlight, Secret Sound, Little Vicious, Hot Blood, Erotic Novels, Shoobies, Windows of Understanding, Sink Tapes, Mint 400 Records, Spider Rockets, Arts Council of Princeton, and Douglass Dresher’s “Inheritance of the Saints.”

published on 01/24/2018

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Makin Waves Record of the Week: Mike Montrey Band’s ‘John Street’

“John Street” is an extremely special and well-made project that is by far the best album Mike Montrey ever has made, including the two with Water

published on 01/24/2018

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Makin Waves with ‘One More with Brian Erickson’

Host Brian Erickson and Producer Matt Smith chat about their revamped, re-launched talk show, “One More with Brian Erickson,” as well as several other endeavors. 

published on 01/17/2018

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Makin Waves Record of the Week: Version City Rockers’ ‘Fortitude Riddim’

​​​​​​​“Fortitude Riddim” is the latest compilation by a group of individual artists known collectively as Version City Rockers released by producer-artist King Django through his New Brunswick-based Version City studio on his Stubborn Records label. The fortitude riddim originally was created by Django in 2002 sessions for Version City Rockers’ “Darker Roots” album. Django then went around the world, collaborating with and capturing 15 other reggae and dub artists with tunes they composed to the fortitude riddim. 

published on 01/17/2018

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Makin Waves Scene Report with Pat DiNizio, The Stone Pony, Monster Magnet, Brian Fallon and Gaslight Anthem, Mike Montrey and more

The latest Scene Report also includes Black Wail, Dusters, “The Eleventh Hour,” Stephane Wrembel, Helen O’Shea, and Concert for Eric (Kvortek). 

published on 01/10/2018

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Makin Waves’ Record of the Week: Matt Witte’s ‘Ol' Boy’

Exceptional Manasquan-raised, Brooklyn-based guitar-pickin’ storyteller Matt Witte delivers a powerful self-released 10-song solo outing, “Good Ol’ Boy,” which will be celebrated Jan. 12 at Roxy & Dukes in Dunellen. 

published on 01/10/2018

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Makin Waves with Keith Kenny

Asbury Park-based singer-songwriter-guitarist Keith Kenny talks about the vinyl release of his latest album on Jan. 6 at John & Peter’s in New Hope, Pa.; a couple of Light of Day shows that are coming up, and his next venture out West, including the next NAMM Convention. 

published on 01/03/2018

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Makin Waves’ Record of the Week: ‘The Vice Rags’

An all-star veteran ensemble assembled from the embers of Mercy Circle, Mars Needs Women, Kid With Man Head, Acid, The Blakes, and Readymade Breakup, The Vice Rags are makin waves with their self-titled six-song debut EP. 

published on 01/03/2018

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Makin Waves with Thursday and Frank Iero & the Patience

For more than 15 years, former Eyeball Records label mates Thursday and Frank Iero have been friends. Their shared history will come to life during a year-end mini tour that will culminate on Dec. 30 at Starland Ballroom in Sayreville.

published on 12/27/2017

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Makin Waves’ Record of the Week: Doc Rotten’s ‘Fallout’

The Trenton-based punk four-piece Doc Rotten have a bunch of shows coming up in support of their four-song debut EP, “Fallout,” including Dec. 28 at Roxy & Dukes Roadhouse, Dunellen, and Dec. 29, the BrightonBar, Long Branch.

published on 12/27/2017

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Makin Waves: 19th Annual Makin Waves Awards

The 19th annual Makin Waves Awards honors the New Jersey music scene’s best music acts, musicians, records, video, and one non-performer who has made the most significant impact. 

published on 12/21/2017

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Makin Waves’ Record of the Week: ‘Mike Daly & the Planets’

To me, a really great song is one that gets stuck in your head, tickles your mind and touches your heart. Typically, a Record of the Week has one or two. With Mike Daly & the Planets’ self-titled debut on Daly’s Pop Goes the World label, it’s nearly the entire 11-song album. 

published on 12/20/2017

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Makin Waves' Record of the Week: The Front Bottoms' "Going Grey"

For those who haven’t heard it yet, a look at The Front Bottoms’ latest LP, “Going Grey,” on the eve of their annual Champagne Jam, which this year brings the indie-rock outfit home to Asbury Park on Dec. 16 at Convention Hall. 

published on 12/14/2017

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Makin Waves with Old Wounds

The Asbury Park hardcore band Old Wounds are back and better than ever with a new single and video and a year-end weekender that will bring them to Baltimore, Worcester, Mass., and New York City.

published on 12/13/2017

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Makin Waves with Danny Clinch Transparent Gallery

Acclaimed photographer Danny Clinch, designer-artist Tina Kerekes and singer-songwriter-instrumentalist Rachel Ana Dobken recently chatted with Makin Waves about the impact of Danny Clinch Transparent Gallery on the Asbury Park music and art scenes and them.

published on 12/07/2017

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Makin Waves’ Record of the Week: Green Knuckle Material’s ‘Renaissance’

Bergen County-based Green Knuckle Material will celebrate the release of their sophomore EP, “Renaissance,” on Dec. 9 at Sticks & Stones in Hawthorne with Pixel Face, Jean Pool, Offkey Lifestyle and The Dead Flowers.

published on 12/06/2017

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Makin Waves Scene Report with MarSOUPial, Doc Rotten, Yawn Mower and more

The latest Makin Waves Scene Report features news about MarSOUPial, Music on Main Street Julian Fulton, Dan LaVoie and Abbie Gardner, The PopBreak, Doc Rotten, Asbury Park Santa Run, Yawn Mower, Mint 400, Speed the Plough, Fascinations Grand Chorus, hurricane relief benefits, The Green Planet, Hearts on Our Sleeves, Spowder, A Very Melody Christmas, Rockin’ Bricks reunion, Owen York, “The Tomato Limbo,” Hideaway, and Jammin’ for Nicky

published on 11/30/2017

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Makin Waves’ Record of the Week: Kathy Phillips’ ‘Soul Catcher’

It’s been 11 years since Northwest Jersey singer-songwriter Kathy Phillips’ last LP, but she has returned with the philosophical fun of “Soul Catcher.”

published on 11/29/2017

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Makin Waves’ Record of the Week: Dinosaur Eyelids’ ‘Left Turn on Red’

Somerset County-based Dinosaur Eyelids will celebrate the release of their fifth independent release, “Left Turn on Red,” on Nov. 24 at their favorite stomping ground, the Court Tavern in New Brunswick. 

published on 11/22/2017

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Makin Waves: New Jersey’s best indie records of 2017

In celebration of Thanksgiving and all the shopping that follows it, Makin Waves looks at the best independently released recordings the Garden State had to offer this year. 

published on 11/22/2017

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Makin Waves with Accidental Seabirds, Jackson Pines and The Porchistas

Friends for nearly a decade, Accidental Seabirds’ Jesse Lee Herman and Al Letizia, Jackson Pines’ Joe Makoviecki and The Porchistas’ Alan “Sucia” Smith chat about their friendship, collaborations, music scene, views on issues, and joint bill on Nov. 18 at the Makin Waves Roots Fest, an attempt to help Food for Thought feed the homeless and hungry, while continuing to shine a light on some of the state’s best music.

published on 11/15/2017

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Makin Waves’ Record of the Week: Toothgrinder’s ‘Phantom Amour’

Asbury Park-based Toothgrinder continues to push boundaries with “Phantom Amour,” their second LP for Spinefarm Records.

published on 11/15/2017

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Makin Waves with Skid Row

Guitarist Dave “Snake” Sabo of Sayreville is returning home to rock Starland Ballroom once again with his longtime band, Skid Row, which he founded in 1986 with bassist Rachel Bolan. For 30 years, they and guitarist Scotti Hill have remained the core of a band who still play more than 100 shows a year.

published on 11/09/2017

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Makin Waves’ Record of the Week: Albert Savage’s ‘Savage on the High Seas’

Hunterdon County jam band Albert Savage will celebrate the release of its funky, soulful, rootsy “Savage on the High Seas” LP on Nov. 11 with a flow of 17 different beers at River Horse Brewing Co. in Ewing.    

published on 11/09/2017

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Makin Waves Scene Report with Jeff Linden and the Black Spot Society, The Saint, Garden State Beard & Mustache Society and more

The latest Scene Report features Jeff Linden and the Black Spot Society, The Saint, Garden State Beard & Mustache Society, Mikey Erg, Brian Fallon, Lump ’N’ Loaf, Elk City, Bar/None, The Weeklings, Nalani & Sarina, Rutgers Battle of the Bands, Mike Daly & the Planets, The Carousers and Brookfield.

published on 11/01/2017

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Makin Waves’ Record of the Week: Bobby Mahoney and the Seventh Son’s ‘Empty Passenger Seats’ b/w ‘Another Deadbeat Summer’

After Bobby Mahoney and the Seventh Son’s month-long tour from Upstate New York to the Midwest and Southeast draws to a close, the fabled Stone Pony will hold a welcome home party for the well-rooted, punk-spirited band on Nov. 3. Here’s a look at the East Brunswick outfit’s two most recent singles.

published on 11/01/2017

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Makin Waves Record of the Week: Hodera’s ‘First Things First’

Hodera’s ‘First Things First’ comes with a slew of shows, including a release party on Nov. 3 at The Brighton Bar, Long Branch, and a tour that will bring the emotional, roots-friendly alt-rock band throughout the East Coast and Midwest. 

published on 10/25/2017

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Makin Waves Scene Report with The Silverhounds, Trenton Punk Rock Flea Market, Don Giovanni Records, The Front Bottoms, hurricane relief and more

 This month’s Scene Report features The Silverhounds, Trenton Punk Flea Market, The Degenerics, Chris Gethard, Screaming Females, The Front Bottoms, several hurricane relief benefits, Bobby Mahoney & the Seventh Son, Mint 400 Records, The Porchistas, Hang Tight, The Early November, Wetbrain, P-Funk North, Danny Coleman, Speak into My Good Eye, 100th Monkey Foundation, Aquino, Robin Tricker, Briz and The Revival, and The Inversion Circus

published on 10/19/2017

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Makin Waves’ Record of the Week: The Clydes’ ‘So the Story Goes’

The Clydes will celebrate the release of their Mint 400 Records full-length debut, “So the Story Goes,” at the Oct. 30 Happy Mondays with Quality Living and C.R. and the Degenerates at The Wonder Bar in Asbury Park.

published on 10/19/2017

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Makin Waves with the rootsy family of Mass Folks Commons and Tiffany Harned

Half of the Philadelphia-based tattooed-punk roots unit Mass Folk Commons are from Central Jersey, as is their manager, Tiffany Harned, an accomplished artist and photographer. Both will participate in the fourth and final Makin Waves Rock Circus on Oct. 21 at Roxy & Dukes in Dunellen with The Silverhounds, Coach N’ Commando, Anthony Carrera, Vivi Noir, Vertical Fixation, and Dean Formica. 

published on 10/11/2017

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Makin Waves’ Record of the Week: The Successful Failures’ ‘Ichor of Nettle’

This week’s Record of the Week is the 11-year-old Successful Failure’s sixth LP, “Ichor of Nettle,” a 16-song outing that blends power pop with roots rock, drops Oct. 20, and can be heard live that day at The Record Collector in Bordentown. 

published on 10/11/2017

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Makin Waves’ Record of the Week: The Brixton Riot’s ‘Close Counts’

The veteran ragged power-pop band The Brixton Riot will celebrate “Close Counts,” their third release, second full-length, and label debut for Mint 400 Records, on Nov. 3 at a show to be presented by CoolDad Music at Asbury Park Yacht Club with Dentist and RocknRoll HiFives.

published on 10/04/2017

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Makin Waves' Record of the Week: Alan Grant's "A Reason to Smile"

Poppy roots-rocker Alan Grant and his top-notch band will celebrate the release of his latest LP, “A Reason to Smile,” on Oct. 1 at McCloone’s Supper Club with producer Anthony Krizan on guitar and singer-songwriter Roger Gardella as the opening act.

published on 09/27/2017

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Makin Waves Scene Report with North Jersey Indie Rock Festival, the return of New Brunswick's Oktoberfest, Screaming Females, Nervous Triggers, Dinosaur Eyelids, Jay's Jersey Jams, and much more

Find out all about the North Jersey Indie Rock Festival, New Brunswick’s first Oktoberfest in 25 years, the latest Melody Bar reunion, Jay’s Jersey Jams to NJArts.net, Blow Up Radio’s Banding Together benefit concert series and charity compilation, ProgStock, and how Screaming Females, Nervous Triggers, Dinosaur Eyelids, Hodera, Hi-Tide, Animal Masks, Just 6 Hours, The Doughboys, Richard X. Heyman, Player Hater, and Ditz are Makin Waves! 

published on 09/21/2017

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Makin Waves' Record of the Week: The Wooden Soldiers' 30th anniversary of 'Hippies, Punks and Rubber Men'

The Wooden Soldiers’ 1987 debut EP, “Hippies, Punks and Rubber Men,” inspired me to return to writing about the local music scene in 1988 shortly before I was given this column by Jay Lustig at East Coast Rocker. In celebration of the record’s 30th anniversary, here is a recollection of its impact. 

published on 09/21/2017

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Makin Waves’ Record(s) of the Week: Fun While You Wait’s ‘Of Course’ and We’re Ghosts Now’s ‘Until Death’

Those inseparable tour buddies, Fun While You Wait and We’re Ghosts Now, have another tasty gig together on Sept. 15 at Asbury Park Yacht Club to celebrate the release of new EPs by both of them

published on 09/13/2017

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Makin Waves with Hub City Stompers

Founding Hub City Stompers front man Travis Nelson chats about headlining ROCK New Brunswick on Sept. 10 in Boyd Park, being misunderstood as an interracial skinhead, the impact of gentrification, and the glory days of the Brunsfus and City Gardens scenes

published on 09/06/2017

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Makin Waves’ Record of Week: The Cryptkeeper Five’s “Stronghold”

Veteran Trenton band The Cryptkeeper Five recently released “Stronghold,” their sixth album since 2002 and first in six years. After a month of celebrations in August, tasty shows will continue in September with a Happy Mondays gig on Sept. 11 at The Wonder Bar and a couple of shows in Philly on Sept. 23 at Connie’s Ric Rac and Sept. 29 at Century before heading out to Tennessee.   

published on 09/06/2017

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Makin Waves Scene Report - August 31

This week, Makin Waves features Hub City Sounds: ROCK New Brunswick 2017, New Jazz Directions, Shadow of the City, Kyle Brendle, Santa Ray, Joker’s Republic, Slushii, North Jersey Indie Rock Festival, Party for Peace 2, Rent Party Family Picnic, Fun While You Wait, We’re Ghosts Now and more.

published on 08/30/2017

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Makin Waves’ Record of the Week: Glazer’s “On a Prairie, Live in the Dirt”

This week’s Record of the Week is Glazer’s full-length debut “On a Prairie, Live in the Dirt” on the new indie State Champion Records formed by Screaming Females bassist King Mike. The band will celebrate with a New Brunswick house show on Sept. 3, and they also will play the ROCK New Brunswick Warmup Party on Sept. 9 at Volume IV also New Brunswick. 

published on 08/30/2017

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Makin Waves with Hi-Tide Presents and Asbury Park Surf Music Festival

Enjoy a chat with Asbury Park’s First Couple of Surf, Hi-Tide Presents’ Vincent Minervino and Magdalena O’Connell, founding producers of Asbury Park Surf Music Festival, which returns Aug. 24 to 27 throughout the City by the Sea.

published on 08/23/2017

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Makin Waves Record of the Week with Jackson Pines

Makin Waves’ Record of the Week is “Lost & Found” by Jackson Pines. The Jackson-based roots duo’s follow-up to last year’s “Purgatory Road” will performed Aug. 30 at benefit for the Project Matters mentorship program at Manasquan United Methodist Church.

published on 08/23/2017

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Makin Waves’ Record of the Week: Mr. Payday’s ‘Welcome to the Modern World’

Makin Waves’ Record of the Week is New Brunswick-based Mr. Payday’s full-length debut, “Welcome to the Modern World.” The band’s third and best release will be celebrated Aug. 26 at Pino’s in Highland Park followed by appearances on Sept. 10 at ROCK New Brunswick, Sept. 15 back at Pino’s, Sept. 20 at Bowery Electric, and Sept. 24 at Raritan River Festival on the New Brunswick waterfront.

published on 08/17/2017

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Makin Waves with Cook Thugless, The Waffle Stompers, The Moms, Mr. Flannery and His Feelings, Bobby Mahoney & the Seventh Son, Colossal Street Jam and more

This week, Makin Waves shares streams and briefs on Cook Thugless, The Moms, Silent Stereo, Mr. Flannery and His Feelings, plus the latest about Hub City Sounds: ROCK New Brunswick, The Waffle Stompers, Bobby Mahoney & the Seventh Son, and Colossal Street Jam.

published on 08/17/2017

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Makin Waves’ Record of the Week: The Vansaders’ ‘No Matter What’

​​​​​​​Makin Waves’ Record of the Week is Asbury Park-based The Vansaders’ highly anticipated “No Matter What” EP produced as part of the impressive stable of Bouncing Souls guitarist Pete Steinkopf’s Little Eden Studios (The Battery Electric, Crazy & the Brains, Hot Blood, Lost in Society). The five-song collection will be followed by a flurry of activity, including record release partiesAug. 11 at Bond Street Complex, Asbury Park, and Aug. 26 at Mill Hill Basement, Trenton, which sandwich a Joe Strummer tribute on Aug. 19 at The Stone Pony.

published on 08/09/2017

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Makin Waves: Secret Mountain organize smokin’ Planned Parenthood benefit

This week, Makin Waves chats with the Asbury Park-based indie-rock band Secret Mountain, who have organized a benefit for Planned Parenthood at Asbury Park Music Foundation that is stacked with indie talent.

published on 08/02/2017

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Makin Waves' Record of the Week: Atom Driver's 'In the West'

Featuring ex-members of Buzzkill, Boss Jim Gettys and Good Clean Fun, the local super group Atom Driver have released their second in EP in six monthswith the aptly titled "In the West" in honor of the positive experience they had making the five-song collection at the Hub City studio on Jersey Avenue.

published on 08/02/2017

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Makin Waves with Bouncing Souls, Monster Magnet, Well Wisher, Jeff Lane, Crazy & the Brains, Teenage Halloween and much more

This week, Makin Waves shares a scene report on Bouncing Souls, Monster Magnet, Well Wisher, Jeff Lane, Crazy & the Brains, Teenage Halloween, Chris Pierce, Little Dickman, Hub City Stompers, Silent Knight, The Band Called FUSE, Atom Driver, Mr. Payday, Flemington DIY, Mike Montrey Band, Anthony Krizan, P-Funk North, Mikeromedia, Randy Now’s Mancave, “Shooting Clerks,” Coach ’N Commando, and The Silver Hounds

published on 07/27/2017

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Makin Waves’ Record of the Week: Nicole Atkins’ Goodnight Rhonda Lee

This week, Makin Waves shares Asbury Park rock queen Nicole Atkins’ new soulful album, “Goodnight Rhonda Lee,” which she will support with several tour dates, including Monmouth County Fair on July 29 and Shadow of the City Festival on Sept. 10

published on 07/19/2017

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Makin Waves’ Record of the Week: K.C. Cary’s “Beautiful and Blue”

This week, Makin Waves shares Hunterdon County singer-songwriter K.C. Cary’s first album in 20 years, which he will celebrate on July 13 at his label’s Black Potatoe Music Festival.

published on 07/12/2017

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Makin Waves with Jeff Crespi

This week, Makin Waves chats with beloved concert photographer Jeff Crespi, whose dedication to local music has made him a Jersey icon.

published on 07/06/2017

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Makin Waves Scene Report for June 29, 2017

This week, the Scene Report looks at Meeko Brando, 18th & Addison, Inventure, Modern Chemistry, Dark City Strings, In the Presence of Wolves, Wayne Olivieri, Night Birds, The Pop*Break, The Hook Journal, Jigs & the Pigs, and the Makin Waves Jam ’N Groove Fest

published on 06/29/2017

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Makin Waves with Mike Montrey Band and Karl Dietel Five

This week, Makin Waves chats with Mike Montrey of the Mike Montrey Band and his keyboardist Karl Dietel, also of Karl Dietel Five, both of whom will perform July 21 at the Makin Waves Jam N Groove Fest, among many other tasty upcoming gigs. Read all about it! 

published on 06/29/2017

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Makin Waves Record of the Week with Fruit & Flowers

Congrats to Little Dickman for five rad years of sweet platters, like the Fruit & Flowers debut EP, “Drug Tax,” which drops June 30 and will be celebrated with a release party on June 29 at Baby’s All Right in Brooklyn. More on Little Dickman in a bit, but first, do go check out Fruit & Flowers both live and on record. Their powerful mix of surf, punk, garage, psychedelic rock and pop may sound like it’s been done before, but the three-quarter female quartet deliver a dichotomous charm and edge that brings them to the forefront of the surf-punk and psychedelic garage rock movements. The results are as sweet as their name implies.

published on 06/28/2017

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Makin Waves with Rhyme & Reason Records, Glenn Morrow’s Cry for Help, Sweet Crude, Pronoun, and Mr. Flannery and His Feelings

This week, Makin Waves shares a special report on the happening Jersey City-based label Rhyme & Reason Records and new releases by Glenn Morrow’s Cry for Help, Sweet Crude, Pronoun and Mr. Flannery and His Feelings. 

published on 06/21/2017

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Makin Waves Record of the Week with Nervous Triggers

Jersey Shore-based Nervous Triggers’ are not your typical punk rock in that they’ll use a quirky organ to get their point across and have fun doing it, while also making extremely overt political statements in the context of far more entertaining-sounding music. The digital release of their four-song debut EP, “Do the Drool,” was timed to coincide with inauguration of Donald Trump, as the bulk of the lyrical content of the songs deals with the issues surrounding his election and presidency. Physical copies of the EP recently were released on CD and cassette, and fans of fun-sounding political punk-rock will want to pick up a copy.

published on 06/21/2017

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Makin Waves Music Scene Report with Deaf Rhino, The Cold Seas, Jack Petruzzelli, Gary ‘U.S.’ Bonds, Black Flamingos and more

​​​​​​​This week, the Makin Waves Music Scene Report takes a look at Deaf Rhino, NJ Metal Fest III, Cannabis Corpse guitarist Ray Suhy, MikeroMedia, The Cold Seas, Jack Petruzzelli, Gary “U.S.” Bonds, Black Flamingos, Beat Author and more 

published on 06/22/2017

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Makin Waves with Danny Coleman: New Jersey’s music media triple threat

This week, Makin Waves breaks out in three different components. Below is an interview with local media triple threat Danny Coleman. Click here for the new Makin Waves Record of the Week and here for the Makin Waves Scene Report, a new element that features the 10 hottest elements in the New Jersey music and entertainment scenes.  

published on 06/15/2017

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Makin Waves Record of the Week: Dark Sky Choir

Initially a metal tribute band, Dark Sky Choir’s collective resume is quite impressive: Wizards of Winter, Exxplorer, Lords of Mercy, and Anvil. After amassing a large fan base, the hard ‘n’ heavy four-piece began to incorporate originals until they became the focus, resulting in an excellent self-titled debut LP meticulously produced by guitarist Fred Gorhaus at the fabled Trax East.

published on 06/15/2017

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Makin Waves Scene Report: June 15, 2017

The new Makin Waves Scene Report will look each week at 10 of the brightest happenings shining upon the New Jersey music, arts and entertainment scenes. This week feature “Song of the Summer of Love” to benefit NJArts.net, Makin Waves Rock Circus, New Jersey acts at Punk Rock Island, Art All Night, and Sourland Music Fest, The Porchistas’ Resist – Backyard Music Festival, Accidental Seabirds’ tasty new residency at Dark City Brewing Co., Hidden Cabins’ new single and tour, Secret Sound’s tribute to The Allman Brothers Band, and Jean Pool’s “Album Release Extravaganza.”

published on 06/15/2017

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Makin Waves with The Vansaders, Hot Blood, The Battery Electric, Wetbrain, Rahway and more

This week, Makin Waves chats with The Vansaders and Hot Blood, reviews and streams The Battery Electric, Wetbrain, and Rahway, streams Billy Walton Band and Spowder, and features briefs on Colossal Street Jam, State Champion Records, Hoboken Arts & Music Festival, the return of The Meatlocker, and the next generation of “Allman brothers” coming to Asbury Park.

published on 06/07/2017

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Makin Waves with Crazy & the Brains, Noordzo, Grey Goes Black and more

This week, Makin Waves features a chat with Crazy & the Brains, reviews of Noordzo and Grey Goes Black, videos of Nicole Atkins, Dark Sky Choir, Lisa Bouchelle, Val Emmich and Nervous Triggers, and briefs on Steven Van Zandt’s Rock ‘n’ Roll Forever Foundation, Asbury Park Night Bazaar, The Aquarian Weekly’s new Spotify playlist, and MikeroMania at Champs in Trenton.

published on 06/01/2017

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Makin Waves with the Sgt. Pepper Jersey All Star Band, Cook Thugless, The Bayonets, The Afraid Brigade and more

This week, Makin Waves features a preview of the Sgt. Pepper 50th Anniversary Celebration happening on June 1 at Pino’s with the Sgt. Pepper Jersey All Star Band, The Paper Jets, Fun While You Wait, Anthony Carrera and Ser Xerri, reviews of Cook Thugless, The Bayonets and The Afraid Brigade, streams of Brian Clayton, Rob Jennings and Lil Asmar, and briefs on Garden State Hip Hop’s “New Jersey Live 2” concert, Williams Honor, a stacked Planned Parenthood benefit in Jersey City, and A Halo Called Fred.

published on 05/25/2017

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Makin Waves with Toothgrinder, Little Steven, Lowlight, Levy & the Oaks, Control, Harry Filkin, The Grip Weeds and more

This week, Makin Waves chats with Asbury Park metal band Toothgrinder, reviews Little Steven’s long-awaited next solo CD, streams Lowlight, Levy & the Oaks, Control, and The Grip Weeds, and features briefs on the Elephants for Autism Music Festival, DJ Bryan Bruden, Cats on a Smooth Surface founder Harry Filkin, and singer-songwriter Jonn Sontag.

published on 05/18/2017

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Makin Waves with The Feelies, Overlake, Disposable, RGD and more

This week, Makin Waves features a long-awaited interview with the legendary Glenn Mercer of the seminal Jersey indie band The Feelies; reviews and streams of Overlake, Disposable, and RGD; streams of and briefs on Sunshine & the Rain, Julian Fulton, Glenn Morrow’s Cry for Help, and Rahway, and briefs on the Centennial’s record release party and a festival at the Red Mill and American Spirits Roadhouse.

published on 05/11/2017

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Makin Waves with Vini Lopez and Paul Whistler of Dawg Whistle

This week, Makin Waves chats with Vini Lopez and Paul Whistler of Dawg Whistle, reviews and streams new records by Sharkmuffin and Magic Mountain, streams an exclusive track from Speak into My Good Eye’s Wilco tribute comp, and features video briefs of Comb the Desert, Norman Seldin and Anthony Krizan and briefs on Lost in Society, A Halo Called Fred, Afraid Brigade, White Eagle Hall, Black Potatoe Music Festival, Caroline Romanelli Presents, Asbury Park Music Foundation, and CoolDad Music.

published on 05/04/2017

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Makin Waves with Wicked Hollow, Yorkshire Tenth, Wastelands, The Fiendz, Happy Mondays and more

This week, Makin Waves chats with and streams Wicked Hollow, reviews and streams The Scandals and Yorkshire Tenth, and features briefs on Wastelands, Ale ’N Wich’s Bobfest, The Fiendz, autism awareness events, and the return of Happy Mondays to The Wonder Bar.

published on 04/27/2017

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Makin Waves with Colossal Street Jam, Spowder, Overmind, Brenyama, Taylor Tote and more

This week in Makin Waves, there’s a chat with and exclusive video from veteran hard rock band Colossal Street Jam, the online premiere of Spowder’s all-powerful debut LP, “Health Palm,” reviews of Overmind and Brenyama, a live review of a New Brunswick basement show with Hodera, dollys, Green Knuckle Material, Secret Mountain, and Offkey Lifestyle, a video brief of Taylor Tote, and briefs on the “Songs by and about Women” benefit for Planned Parenthood, and New Brunswick Development Corp.’s weekly outdoor gig for Hub City bands.

published on 04/20/2017

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Makin Waves with Black Flamingos, Sally Draper, Cook Thugless, and this curse.

This week, Makin Waves chats with Black Flamingos, reviews and streams Sally Draper, features video briefs of Cook Thugless and this curse., as well as briefs on the Jersey Beat 35th anniversary concert and the latest New Hope Takeover.  

published on 04/13/2017

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Makin Waves with RocknRoll HiFives, Fairmont, Hub City Music Festival & more

This week, Makin Waves features an interview with New Jersey’s favorite family band, RocknRoll HiFives, reviews and streams of Fairmont’s new “A Spring Widow” LP, and briefs on Hub City Music Festival, Band Together for Veterans, the acoustic tour of Bobby Mahoney and Colton Kayser, Trenton Punk Flea Market and Punk Rock Prom, WMCX’s 24 Hour Fest, animation artist Simon Allen, the Big Dreams & Silver Screens Youth Festival and more.

published on 04/06/2017

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Makin Waves with Comb the Desert, Can’t Swim, Danielle Illario, Will Wood and more

This week, Makin Waves features a chat with the hard-core punk band Comb the Desert, record reviews of Keansburg rock band Can’t Swim and Edison jazz singer Danielle Illario, a live review of Will Wood, and briefs on the Garden State Film Festival, a tribute to the late Vision front man Dave Franklin, Jeff Crespi’s birthday bash, Bongo Boy Records’ Indie Showcase, the Garden State Hip Hop Youth Poetry Jam, Stereo Jo’s EP release party, and tour news from The Double Negatives.

published on 03/28/2017

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Makin Waves with CoolDad Music

This week, Makin Waves chats with Jim Appio on the eve of the fifth anniversary of his CoolDad Music site. The column also features reviews of Jersey Shore-based Capacitor Records’ release of the Seattle super group Basment Sessions, plus streams of new Bar/None recording act Overlake and Asbury Park’s The Hesh and Levy & Oaks, and briefs on Noise in the Attic, Modern Chemistry and more.

published on 03/23/2017

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Makin Waves with Atom Driver, The Susan Rumors and more

Ah, it’s like the ’90s all over again, when I was in my prime and covering shows five nights a week from the Bowery to the boardwalks. Some of New Jersey’s best new bands sport a ’90s sound, such as GayGuy/StraightGuy and Experiment 34. Then there are lasting reunions of popular acts, such as Whirling Dervishes and Colossal Street Jam.

published on 03/16/2017

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Makin Waves with Yawn Mower

The debut of Makin Waves features a review and report on the Asbury Park two-piece Yawn Mower, plus briefs about Nicole Atkins, Lunch Ladies, Bouncing Souls, Randy Now’s Mancave, coLAB Arts and more.

published on 03/09/2017

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