All Sensory Void - Psychedelic Syd and the Recklessly Abandoned

When Eric Goldberg sent me his latest musical output I couldn't help think back at the void that was left on Jersey's musical landscape when his band The Nico Blues, without much of a warning, fell silent, being that the band played such a large part in this blogs history through reviews, numerous images and an interview. Strangely enough, when hearing about the first release from one of the bands original members and key contributors, I wasn't exactly setting up a tent in order to be the first in line to review it.
In hindsight, maybe there was a need to be in a specific mindset that would allow these ears to listen without the many daily distractions that have the mind and ears running in varied directions.

When listening to All Sensory Void one can't help but be swept away by the laid back tones and sweeping harmonies. Overall 'Psychadelic Sid and the Recklessly Abandoned' has a warm and comforting feel  that never comes off as dull or flighty. Eric brings a lot of the songwriting quality that made The Nico Blues so enjoyable. James Damion

All Sensory Void  Bandcamp

Two Strike Mark- Just Like My Friends

Upon hearing the term "Acoustic Punk" in the bands introduction.The temptation to hit the delete key or respectfully reply "Thanks, but no thanks." immediately came to mind. However, in my experience I've found that being open minded and accepting of different things can lead to rewarding experiences. Asbury Park's quartet Two Man Strike proved my instincts right with their debut release
'Just Like My Friends'.
The bands sound draws influence from early Blink 182,
Green Day and even
Saves the Day.
Two Strike Mark manage to deliver a record that blends a sense of warmth and vulnerability with angst perfectly. Produced by former Front Bottoms touring musiician  Drew Villafuerte. The aforementioned bands footprints are especially evident  on 'Good Times, Great Times, Florida' and 'Pigeonhole Principle'. 'Just Like My Friends' just might be the best surprise I've had this year.
James Damion

Bandcamp  Get it Here
ReverbNation

Ola Madrid - My Fear is to be Forgotten

During the week of the release of their new five song EP
'My Fear is to be Forgotten', West New York's Ola Madrid announced they were breaking up. It's as if some A&R genius came up with the most twisted and sinister plans ever.
"They won't know what hit 'em." "We'll make millions."

Ola Madrid perfectly mix different styles and sounds that in essence allow the band to stand out without relying to heavily on genre specifications. Call it what you want. The dual vocals of guitarist/singer
Dylan Young and
Oscar Bamaca guitar/screams make for a brilliant mix.While the bands songs are both authentic and memorable.
Whether it be progressive, post, past, alternative or anything else they've come up with these days. Ola Madrid's music speaks for itself and 'My Fear is to be Forgotten' shows such.

Time will tell if this is indeed a break up or just a much needed break. Regardless of what the future holds for Ola Madrid the band has left a nice footprint on New Jersey's musical landscape. One that should assure they will not soon be forgotten. James Damion

Ola Madrid  Bandcamp