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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


Makin Waves Song of the Week: "Spiral Will" by Solace

The Makin Waves Song of the Week is "Spiral Will," a single and video from "Fading Failing Ruin," the latest album from doomy Jersey Shore dirt metal greats Solace.




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Makin Waves Song of the Week: "A Light To Come Home To" by Lisa Bouchelle








 

MORE NEWS

(NEW YORK, NY) -- The Strokes have unveiled their long-awaited new album, Reality Awaits - their first in six years - on July 24, 2026, via Cult Records/RCA Records. The LP features singles that have quickly become fan favorites: "Going Shopping" and "Falling out of Love." Reality Awaits awaits.


MPAC presents Hindley Street Country Club on Wednesday




Brian K & The Parkway releases new single "Roses & Kerosene" featuring Lilly Hiatt




The Strand presents Matt Stone as Elvis on August 29th




Lily Vakili Announces Residency at the Woodland Stage at Marksboro Mills








 

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.


2026-27 Season Preview: Split Level Concerts at Jersey Shore Arts Center




MPAC's Summer 2026 Preview




West Windsor Arts Announces 2026 Summer Music and More Series