Holy City Zoo Debut New Single "No Bunting"

2015 was a quiet year for New Brunswick favorites Holy City Zoo. That's why I'm so exited to report the band has a new single "No Bunting". Word on the streets is the band is set to release their debut full length in early 2016. Let's keep our fingers and toes crossed that it's earlier than later. Stay tuned for more.

https://holycityzoo.bandcamp.com/album/no-bunting

New Jersey's NGHTCRWLRS Debut Official Video for the song "Smiling"

New Jersey's eclectic indie rockers NGHTCRWLRS have posted a video for the song Smiling. from their 2015 self titled debut LP on Sniffling Indie Kids.  

The band is currently working on a follow up that should surface later this year. 

Be sure to keep an eye out for it. James Damion

NGHTCRWLRS

Sniffling Indie Kids

A Juicy Night at the Pussy Pad.

Sometimes I wish there were some sort of telaporter to get me from the couch to the show. For with all the inspiration and passion for music I have. There is an equal if not greater combination of anxiety, indecision appreciation for what I have right here at home.
Lucky for me, the draw of live music is often stronger than most other feeling.

As I parked my car. My windshield was graced with the friendly mug of NGHTCRWLRS guitarist Frank DeFranco. Not a bad way to start the night. Without haste, we made our way through the small corridor that separated the semi attached homes, past the oddly placed antique piano and towards the backyard where we were greeted by our host and those already in attendance. As the bands arrived along with other show goers. I couldn't help but notice the overly friendly and welcome atmosphere the Pussy Pad provided. Before long, we headed down the stairs towards the basement where the first band was already setting up and tuning in.

As much as I enjoyed the opening band. I found myself spending most of their set trying to figure out my camera settings. I had been using it earlier that day in the studio and completely forgot to reset the damn thing. (I tell ya'. It's always something with me. I have a chance to see Toy Cars next week and promise to be on my most attentive behavior.
Toy Cars

Next up were Lancaster Pennsylvania's Spill. This was my first exposure to the band and to say they left a lasting impression would be an understatement. A nice mix of garage meets melody friendly Punk rock with an all inclusive stage presence and banter.
The small, yet intimate crowd in attendance seemed to vibe off each note. Great stuff worth seeking out.
SPILL

NGHTCRWLRS followed
(Or did they?) This was my third time seeing them live.
The band, though hard to describe, are somewhat of a local super group.
(Featuring present and former members of
Holy City Zoo, Nico Blues,
All Sensory Void, Lake Effect and Man on Fire.
(Just to name a few.)
Their sound is as musical as it is eclectic.  Their set was part Punk Rock, part experimental  and part off Broadway production of Silence of the Lambs. Since my first taste of this band I've been second guessing myself on what I should be hearing and what I'm actually hearing. Thoroughly impressive. I like that they keep me guessing.
NGHTCRWLRS

Closing the night was the band I put gas in the car to see. Truth be told. I've been hearing about Lake Effect for some time. So long and so often, that seeing the band perform live seemed to climb higher and higher on my "Must Do" list from one day to the next.
Getting out to finally put the voices in my head to rest was just what this out patient needed. Fronted by singer guitarist Max Rauch. (Who also happens to play the drums for NGHTCRWLRS.)  

The bands set was an impressive mix of musically diverse sounds and child like, wild abandon. There came a point where where Lake Effect and those in attendance became one sweaty mess. From there I doubt anyone could tell who was who. I can only hope that the band were able to make it home with all their pieces in tact. Lake Effect have a show coming up at Jersey City's The Dopeness on September 10th. Be sure to scoop up a copy of their debut album/CD thing
American Sarcasm before, during or after. You wont be sorry.
Lake Effect
Special thanks go out to Frank ( NGHTCRWLRS / Sniffling Indie Kids ) and out host.
If it weren't for basement shows and the people kind enough to open their homes to strangers. We would not have half the music scene we have today. Respect.
James Damion

Holy City Zoo debut "Poor Little Pinkus" Single from Upcoming Debut Full Length on Bandcamp

New Brunswick's Holy City Zoo has just released a digital single, Poor Little Pinkus, from their upcoming full length debut "No Bunting". The track is available for a "Name Your Price" option and  includes a bunch of extras so don't be stingy.

Check it out Here. 

Sink Tapes - Creases

If it wasn't for Jersey Beat's Jim Testa and Holy City Zoo's Frank DeFranco I might have completely missed the boat on New Brunswick's Sink Tapes. The honest truth of the matter is, that with all the bands, shows and releases I take in. I find myself missing out on more than you might imagine.

Additionally, in helping create and sustain a music blog for almost four years. I've learned that, as much as I thought I knew about music, the scene and what's happening within.
I really know nothing.
Which ultimately brings me to Sink Tapes and their latest release 'Creases'. Recently named as one of the
35 NJ Bands We're Excited About in 2015.
Creases opens with the laid back and mellowed out
Maybe Gray. A song that more than lives up to it's title with it's melancholic jangle pop majesty. Bugs follows with similar results and by the time
Blow Me a Kiss, a personal favorite of mine, is done. You begin to understand and appreciate just where Sink Tapes excel. While the bands Lo-Fi approach and melancholy brilliance can easily bring praise from fans of the beloved Guided By Voices. I couldn't stop myself from planting my own "What if the Lemonheads, Jesus Mary Chain and
the Black Hollies had a threesome that produced a lovechild who possessed
uncanny super powers?" seeds as to where Sink Tapes sound took me.  
400 Mint Records and Sniffling Indie

If Creases 13 songs aren't enough to win you over. There are twelve bonus tracks that include demo and acoustic versions of many of the songs. 'Creases' is a perfect example of when an album takes you out of your usual comfort zone, only to put you in a new, unexplored one. I highly recommend exploring all of Sink Tapes catalog. Just make sure you start with 'Creases'. James Damion

Sniffling Indie Kids  Get it Here

Sink Tapes

Modern Chemistry Debut Video for the new single "Never Scared".

New Brunswick's Modern Chemistry have debuted a video for the single "Never Scared". After a couple of years of reviewing outstanding EP's. I finally had the opportunity to see them live at The Court Tavern back in February. Check it out here or go directly to 

You Tube to view. The choice is yours. James Damion

Modern Chemistry Bandcamp

Ink & Sweat / Caseracer - Split 7"

I've always enjoyed a good split EP. An appetizer best savored when the ingredients feature uniquely different flavors. Here, Ink & Sweat and Caseracer team up for a five song split that perfectly showcases each bands approach, style and muscle.

Tampa based Ink & Sweat deliver a mix of impressive guitar prowess and sing along choruses. Each of the two songs presented here,
from the opening lead on "Brickwalls and Pitfalls" to the sing along chorus of "Our Words as Swords" leave a lasting impression on the listener. Hardcore swagger is one thing, but when  backed by excellent musicianship and good song writing ability, you've got something really special to build on.
Delaware/New Jersey's Caseracer deliver a sound that can easily be compared to
New Brunswick legends Lifetime, with their quick start/stop approach to Hardcore.
Listening to their side of the wax transports me to my younger days standing eyeball to eyeball with Ari Katz at some undisclosed New Brunswick basement show.
That can't possibly be a bad thing.  James Damion

Bandcamp Buy it Here

Holy City Zoo - Grandview Terrace

Holy City Zoo's latest single 'Grandview Terrace' is now available on Bandcamp for a 

"name your price" option.
The single is also available through the band as a limited 

Compact Disc. Packing of the CD hand cut, hand/computer printed and wrapped. 

As an added bonus, each CD contains a unique "Zoo Fact." Mine was Zoo fact #17 

"Soap is not overrated. Shampoo, maybe." 

You know what they say, "Knowledge is Power."

James Damion

Grandview Terrace

A Night of Releases, Debuts and Celebratory Hugs at the Court Tavern

Due to my hunger and the fact I spent most of the early part of my evening waiting for my food to come out of the kitchen. I managed to miss most of Darryl Norrell's acoustic set. The two or so songs had a laid back and cozy appeal that would have felt a lot more intimate if the crowd assembled had come anywhere close to the stage. Blame it on my empty stomach, but I was starting to picture myself sitting up on stage with the band roasting marsh mellows. Take it any way you want. It seemed a nice way to open the night. Say what you want, butI think that long bench at the back of the room serves as a Lazy-Boy for a lot of people who just aren't quite ready to fully commit to a good time.

Sink Tapes followed and though I had no prior knowledge of the local New Brunswick quartet. I found myself immediately drawn to their melodic and seemingly effortless approach to Indie Rock. Their set quite impressive musically. I felt drawn to
drummer / vocalist Gabe's delicate vocal delivery and easy approach to the drums.
I created an imaginary line a few feet from the stage. Not wanting to disturb the intimate setting their set created. My one regret of the night was not bringing enough cash to properly ransack Sink Tapes merch table. I hope to get the chance again soon. Only time will tell.

Sink Tapes

Considering how much time I've spent lending my ears to Modern Chemistry's
'We'll grow out of this' Review Here
and 'An Introduction' Review Here.
It's hard to imagine this was my first opportunity catch the band live. Lucky I caught them on this particular night, considering this was to be the bands last local show for some time.
Their uplifting energy and spirit moved the laid back and somewhat stand offish crowd away from the bar and the comfort of the bleachers within striking distance of the stage.
Lead singer / guitarist Brendan Hourican grades high in the frontman department. A mix of energy, charisma and the ability to perfectly engage in onstage banter without it sounding forced or phony. The band's set included  songs from both EP's along with a couple of new ones.
Considering Modern Chemistry list 80's
Power Pop band The Outfield as one of their key influences. I shouldn't have been the least bit surprised when they rolled out a cover of the bands sole hit 'Your Love'. Regardless, my jaw dropped so low. I can accurately relay the the floor of the Court Tavern tastes like a combination of rubber and Pabst Blue Ribbon.
It really raised the eyes and ears of the already involved crowd and put a nice ribbon on an excellent set.

Modern Chemistry

Being that it was their very first show. The Sound is Fine landed a pretty sweet spot on the bill. The Wayne, New Jersey natives whose members comprise of two sets of brothers (Reed and Skyler Adler and Evan and Colin Campbell) are no strangers to the New Jersey independent music scene. Reed, Skyler and Evan comprised 3/5 of the now defunct
Nico Blues. Truth be told. I may have never made it out if it were not for Reed personally asking. It's hard to believe it's been over a year since I've seen these guys. The band played a tight set of celebratory Rock n' Roll  that included songs from their debut EP. One so good, I knew the words and hooks to each song before they even plugged in. Life their predecessors The Nico Blues. I can see The Sound is Fine making a big impression on the current New Jersey music scene and beyond. Be sure to check back in Friday for my review of the EP.

The Sound is Fine

With their new single 'Grandview Terrace' in tow. Local heroes Holy City Zoo closed the night on a high note. The band and personnel have been favorites of mine since the inception of the blog in 2001. Earning a special place in my heart and partial credit for my continual hearing loss. While The New Brunswick noise makers provide the energy and intensity of the areas best Hardcore our. They've grown to become on of the most musically proficient and technically smart band I can think of. Think Rye Coalition meets the Foo Fighters in a dirty New Brunswick basement. I can't think of four more laid back and chill people to hang out with. Interesting, considering the brutal savages they become when plugged in.
It wouldn't be a Holy City Zoo gig if Frank didn't remove his shirt to revel his werewolf lineage. Like Modern Chemistry, they mentioned this would be their last local show in quite a while. They plan on following the new single with an extended lockdown in the studio.
One can only hope the time spent will help produce the bands first full length and big big spot for me on the "Thank List." Only time will tell. James Damion

This was only my second time back since the Church St. landmark reopened and it can't go without saying the new owners have really done a great job with the place. I look forward to more shows, warmer weather and a few games of pool in the near future.

The Cartwheelers - "Hot Socks! It's...The Cartwheelers"

Hailing from New Brunswick New Jersey. The Cartwheelers, a duo comprising of
Kevin McSorely
(guitar / vocals) and
Stefan Dias,
(percussion / vocals) play a saucy mix that includes garage, surf rock and a seasoning of Latin rhythms. The EP's jangly rhythms and quirky, off kilter vocals serve as endearing characteristics.

The opening track 'Birds' is an absolute joy. It's crazy latin inspired percussion and warm chorus are as addictive as any three minutes and eighteen seconds could be.
I almost immediately felt myself losing all inhibitions and going completely spastic on my make believe dance floor. The vocals took me to Nerdville where I felt I was hearing a crazy mix of  Brian Sella, (The Front Bottoms) Gordon Gano, (Violent Femmes) and Scott Thompson (Meet Pause). Pretty good company if you ask me. The Cartwheelers look to be off to a impressive start. I'm glad I had the chance to ride along for a bit.
It was certainly a blast.
James Damion

The Cartwheelers  Bandcamp

My Return to New Brunswick's Court Tavern

It's hard to believe this was my first trip to the Court Tavern since its reopening.
I couldn't help but immediately recall how devastated I was upon hearing about its closing.
Though the Court was, by no means, something any architectural snob would soil themselves over. It's location served as both the center for a city that's continually produced new and inspiring acts and a middle ground for bands traveling between New York City and Philadelphia. Its resurgence reinstates that vital link.

As I made my way inside I noticed that the room to the left, one that was once cluttered with garbage had been turned into a comfortable lounge area with couches, video games and a foosball table. The bar area seemed cleaner, more welcoming and the walls featured gallery quality music photography and most noticeable was the absence of that old douche bag that would project the misery that was his life on everyone he collected money from on the way downstairs. It was indeed, a welcome return.

If my sixth grade math skills serve me right, this was my fifth time seeing Archie Alone.
The Essex County five piece plays a very impressive blend of Punk and Hardcore with emotional vocals and somewhat Metal tinged guitar leads and riffs. There's really not much
I can say that hasn't already been said. The band opened the night to a very sparse, yet intimate crowd. This was by far the smallest crowd I've seen them play to. From the first note it became more than evident that the size of the crowd, stage and venue bear little consequence on their performance. The band seems to gel just as much with the those in attendance as they do with each other. On this particular night I really felt the spirits in me and tried to move the crowd as close to the stage as possible. Even grabbing the bands unofficial sixth member Ana Dobrian to form a somewhat unofficial wall of death.
One that had me sent to the floor due to my own lack of balance and slight drunkeness. Overall, Archie Alone killed it. Setting the tone for the night and raising the bar pretty high for everyone else.

Archie Alone Band Camp

 It's been a long time since I've seen I Hope You Die, maybe two years. With two touring bands bailing out at the last minute, her own guitarist a no show and an audience whose majority was members of the bands that showed up that night. As Punk Rock as
Shannon Perez might be, her voice and song writing abilities go far beyond that rather confined description. That voice, depending on the emotion and angst of the song itself can range from dark and bluesy to sweet and angelic. Each song delivered with a warmth and emotive spirit that makes those in attendance feel as if they are a part of what she's experiencing at the time. One can only imagine the kind of stress she was under on this particular night. With two of the touring bands dropping off the bill, a sparce attendance and her own guitarist a no show. Others might begin to quickly unravel, a lot of people might falter, but not Shannon. She not only kept it together, she made it feel as if I Hope You Die was intended to be a duo.  I hope to see this band releasing new material and playing more shows.

I Hope You Die Facebook

Long Island's bluesy garage influenced three piece A New Bug were the perfect follow up to
I Hope You Die's style and approach. The bands testosterone fueled
"How You Guys Doing Tonight?" Rock N' Roll swagger led by frontman Eddie Lo on guitar and vox with the mysterious Nick Diaz on bass and the man of a thousand names
Michael Boulanger on drums was very appealing. Reminding me of acts such as
Jon Spencer Blues Explosion, The Strokes and The Hives. They definitely added another layer to the night's diverse bill.

A New Bug Bandcamp

Closing the night was Feeny. The band featuring former/current members of the Far Away Boys (An impressive band I caught at the Court a few years back.) The three piece, who danced and remained front center for each of the bands that went before, took the stage with the same enthusiasm and energy they showed on the dance floor that night. Much like the Far Away Boys, Feeny play some impressive upbeat Pop Punk with just enough punch to keep the pit moving. It was a real pleasure to see how much these kids have grown musically since I last saw them . They've definitely kicked it up a notch. Though I'm personally unsure of The Far Away Boys future...Feeny undoubtedly made an excellent first impression.

Feeny  Facebook

As I was driving home I couldn't help but reflect on all the good times I've had in New Brunswick over the years. From the numerous basement shows to the celebratory nights at the Court Tavern. The town has been good to me musically. I'm hoping to be back there this week for my first basement show in maybe two years. I'm really looking forward to it.
James Damion

Modern Chemistry - We'll Grow Out of This

Back in High School there was no fear quite like the fear of chemistry class. Year after year I struggled with the subject to a degree where it almost kept me from graduating my senior year. I'd long since put the subject on the back burner and focused on subjects I can conquer without the help of cheat sheets or lowering myself to any other devious levels. So when I was sent this new offering with a note attached that read "No testing required". Let just say I was up for the task.

On "We'll Grow Out of This"
the sophomore release from New Brunswick's Modern Chemistry. The band delivers a six song EP that builds on all the strengths and promise "An introduction" offered. Guitar driven post core that features emotive vocals and inspiring harmonies. And though the recording is tight and professional sounding. It manages to maintain a certain edge and grit that is evident throughout;
Giving it somewhat of an intimate and personal feeling. The EP's third track"Remember this Bridge" stands out with it's tasty guitar parts and Geoff Rickly (Thursday) inspired vocal delivery. While the following, "Part Two" is an emotional acoustic that just might get the ladies panties wet. Kind of a "Hey there Dellilah" for the Jersey kids. Overall, it was a good listen that offered a little bit of everything to this listener.  James Damion

Modern Chemistry  Facebook

Modern Chemistry - An Introduction

"An introduction" is probably one of the most understated titles to ever accompany a sampling as good as this. Modern Chemistry come out of the gate like seasoned pros with a distinct style and approach that is seldom seen in a band this early in their development.
"Remember this Bridge" and "Holla Atcha Boi" are instantly addictive tracks that have warranted countless listens.

The bands sound is a perfect mix of rock and post core with outstanding riffs complimented by an  impressive rhythm section and emotionally anthemic vocals. All of which blend together perfectly. Putting on a display that is emotionally charged without losing any sense of angst or aggression. I sensed a
Rise Against influence mixed with the appeal of New Jersey's The Wait.
The band itself sites Brand New and The Outfield amongst their influences. Pretty cool if you ask me.

New Brunswick has always had a proud history of producing one outstanding band after another. It looks as if Modern Chemistry are ready to join in that proud linage.
If this is an introduction to what Modern Chemistry can bring to the table... then we can look forward to  something very special.
James Damion

Modern Chemistry  Bandcamp

Scenes From a New Brunswick Basement Show; Starring Deep Sleep

When I caught wind that Baltimore's Deep Sleep were playing a show in New Brunswick NJ, I almost immediately shot a text over to my partner in crime Dave to see if I could will him off the couch to go see one of our favorite, current HardCore bands. Though Dave is always up for a drive to the moon to dig for records, it's a rare occasion when I can get him to drag himself to a show.

As we arrived at the non de-script house in any street New Brunswick, we noticed a small gathering of Punks and HXC kids gathered outside. It brought us both back to the days when house shows were more prevalent and it felt as if every New Jersey basement was filled with kids, a roster of bands who were to later become legends and a table with records that were sold slightly below price.

As we opened the cellar doors and walked down into the cold concrete fortress we felt an immediately good vibe.
Absent were the pertinacious nature that goes along with a lot of shows these days.
Pushing past the mattress that served as both a door and noise insulation were we caught Radio Exile in mid set.

The set was sharp and the attending crowd seemed to enjoy every note. As the band finished up and the crowd dispersed in different directions the space opened up to a merch area and some couches next to a spray painted wall that read "R.I.P. Court Tavern" a stark reminder of the clubs recent closing. Dave and I headed over to the table which was manned by Deep Sleeps frontman Tony.

We were all settled in by the time Real Cops started there set. I made my way to the front of the crowd to get an up close look. The band tore through a ripping set of Hardcore that had both me and Dave grinning from ear to ear. There was a certain loose dissonance about their sound that we both found appealing. Thoroughly enjoyable on all levels.
They really brought me back to some of the things I loved about HardCore in the 90's. After their set Dave almost immediately headed back to the table to grab a copy of the bands demo. You can check out his review right Here, Later that night I spoke to their guitarist and singer and found out they were located nearby in Jersey City. I definitely look forward to seeing them again.

When I asked the host about the following band he told me they were a thrash outfit and that they'd probably play about fifty songs during their ten minute set. Looking back,
I think he was right.    
Attitude Era took about five times longer to set up than they did to actually play. Once they did play it was total chaos with the singer and guitarist throwing rolls of oversized toilet paper and launching into the crowd repeatedly. It was hard to contain their energy or noise in the small space. Within a few minutes of screaming, jumping and pouncing, it was all over. Once again we thought, "In the time they set up and broke down they could have toured on that set.

I think it's needless to say we were really there to see Deep Sleep. I first heard the band about a year ago through Dave on one of record store recons to Allentown and have been catching up since.
The Baltimore based band has become one of if not our favorite Hardcore act playing today. Knowing that they were finally coming to the area created quite a bit of excitement for these old men.

As the band was plugging in I gave the bands guitarist Nick some well deserved praise on his awesome Mega City Four shirt. It seemed to really make his day that someone just might like the band as much as he did. Here I am standing there waiting for this band to put me in to orbit and instead of worrying about his tunage or feedback he's having his day made by some dude who shares his love for things like MC4 and the Doughboys. Unreal!!! Suddenly it all came to that moment. Tony had fixed the issues he was having with his mic and it was blast off.  I was in fucking orbit. Lately I've really been letting the music completely wash over me and not let any shyness or rhythmic issues stop me from rocking the fuck out and having one of my favorite bands go nuts less than a foot away from me brought on the possession.

Deep Sleep have an amazing energy and made a quick and lasting impression on the crowd. HardCore can often get way too serious with it's subject matter, testosterone driven sound and tough guy image but this was a band that were there to have fun and they looked as if they had a ton of it.
The huge Descendents influence didn't hurt one bit.  Everybody was on point on this particular night and we felt lucky to be a part.

As we were about to leave we loaded up on records and tour posters. Before I could head out Nick grabbed me with a smile and said his proper goodbyes while handing me some tapes from his side project Kent State. I'm going to go listen to them now and let you know what I think. Until then, check out some Deep Sleep  Here .
James Damion

Sara - Spud Brain

As I was about to give Sara and their EP Spud Brain a listen I couldn't help but think I was about to tune in to a female fronted pop band that sang songs about high school crushes, teen alienation and how     "Mom  will never understand". Though, that type of music has surely carved out it's little niche in musics broad landscape, it could not have been further from the truth when it came to this band.

Sara, in fact, are a three piece (each of them strapping young men) from New Brunswick, NJ. The band plays a style that mixes 70's rock with the aesthetics 90's indie and a bit of a low-fi value that ties everything together rather nicely.
     The EP's seven tracks are driven by some genius guitar work that produces a lot of unique and interesting twists and turns. Spud Brain delivers its share of up tempo and low key moments throughout. Each song  offering  its own unique identity and style. There are soaring moments on songs like the title track "Spud Brain" and its followup "Cancer Songs". While, offerings such as "Almond Hours" and "Criminals" offer a more intimate vibe. 

Overall I found this to be an excellent release that has a lot of different elements that come together rather seamlessly. I always wondered what it was about New Brunswick that turned out so much excellent music. Listening to Sara moves me to continue seeking the answers. This band is definitely worth further investigation. James Damion

Sara Facebook

Download EP Here

Images from the CMJ

Last week I got off my lazy butt and attended day two of the CMJ Festival. I got to see some of my favorite new bands and was treated to some new ones. The people were awesome and the vibe was laid back. I started my day with a visit my old stomping ground on the Bowery. Hung out at Bowery Electric and ended my night at my home away from homes Maxwells. I added a shot of The Nico Blues who lit up the stage a week prior at a "Tiny Giants" showcase over in Jersey City. James Damion

The Nico Blues

Soft Reeds 

Capybara

Canon Logic

Those Mockingbirds

Invisible Lines

Marvin Glover

Lost Romance

Lights Resolve