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Highway 9
"What in Samhill"

Released in 2002

Highway 9 is a band from New Jersey that showed lightning sometimes can hit twice. The band was comprised of the guys in Mr Reality who put out a wonderful acoustic record in 1992. They returned with a more country rock sound a decade later. Both bands had national record deals - something that still seems amazing to me.

This is one of my favorite albums to put on and listen straight through. I loved their earlier band and loved what they became. This record is the product of artists who grew up loving the music of artists like Bruce Springsteen and The Eagles. The band included Gordon Brown, Peter Scherer, Rob Tanico, Dave Halpern, and Kevin Ansell. Sadly, this would be their only release.

For me, this album holds a special point in time. I still remember interviewing Gordon and Peter at the Stone Pony for my first book. In many ways, albums like this one spurred me to being a music writer.


Here are two more tracks to check out






 

COLUMNS


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The Makin Waves Song of the Week is "Under the Carousel," the latest video from North Jersey singer-songwriter Josh Herman.




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This Week in Music: Previews for Concerts from June 10-16, 2026




Makin Waves Song of the Week: "Junky Eyes" by Greg Amici








 

MORE NEWS

(MONTCLAIR, NJ) -- The North Jersey Blues Society presents "Blues & Brews" featuring BBD Rhythm & Blues Band at the Montclair Brewery on Sunday, June 21, 2026. The event runs from 5:30pm to 7:30pm.


Asbury Lanes presents There, There (A Tribute to Radiohead) on July 11th




Good Damage to perform at House of Independents on July 15th




Jersey Arts Podcast: Bring on the Bacon! The Princeton Festival Features The Bacon Brothers




Brian K & The Parkway Announces New Album featuring Lilly Hiatt, Cat Popper, and Rob Clores








 

UPCOMING SHOWS


MPAC Announces Free Summer Concert Lineup for 2026

(MORRISTOWN, NJ) -- Mayo Performing Arts Center's Arts in the Community free summer concert schedule for 2026 has been announced. MPAC will present six free concerts between June and August. The lineup includes the return of three of their most popular events – Bollywood Dance Party, Country Line Dancing and Salsa at Sunset, as well as singer-songwriters, and more.


Sergio Mendes' Wife, Gracinha Leporace, Brings His 'Best Band Ever' to New Jersey




Carteret PAC presents Jo Dee Messina




SOPAC to Celebrate 20th Anniversary with Gala 20: Featuring Max Weinberg's Jukebox