Invisible Lines Return to Headline Maxwell's

Keith Laviola "Touch me, I'm sick."

If it were a perfect world, a musically perfect world. All rock related shows in New Jersey would take place at Maxwell's. For me personally, there is no better place to play or experience music. Now, of course, we would have have to extend twenty four hour days to thirty six and me might have to fiddle around with that three hundred sixty five day year thingamagig. There would be work to be done. Things like turning the entire street into a "Maxwell's Only" event space with numerous areas to accommodate various stages and such. It sounds difficult; But we are talking about a perfect world. Work would have to be done. Sacrifices would have to be made. The simple truth is, the is no better club, bar, stage, sound, door man, ticket taker, bar or booking guru.
I've seen everyone from The Avengers to X
play there. It is one of the reasons I moved to Hoboken. It is the only reason I still live in Hoboken. If it were not for Maxwell's, I would be musically homeless.

On this particular Friday night I headed to Maxwell's in order to play catch up with both
Meet Pause and Invisible Lines while reintroducing myself to the band Lost Romance.
On top of that I'd get the chance to see what New York's Face the King had to offer.

Jimmy Hot Pants (Meet Pause)

If my calculations are correct, it's been about a year since I've seen those meatheads known as Meet Pause perform live. To be painfully honest,
I had almost forgotten just how good these guys really are. My last encounter was about a year ago at Jersey City's Lamp Post and though I thoroughly enjoyed myself. Seeing them wedged between the kitchen and the bars bathroom wasn't quite the way I like to experience music. This time around there would be no chicken cutlets and fries emerging from the drum set.
No dodging Blatter challenged bar goers. I was amped. I was ready.I would not be let down.
Meet Pause really fired on all cylinders. I really can't say enough about any opening band plays like a headliner. There were so many highlights to the set which covered both familiar and new tracks from their upcoming record. Though I've thought it to myself many times I may not have put it out there. Keith "Hotpocket" Laviola is one of the best guitar slinger the Jersey scene has to offer. Add to that the often effortless vocal delivery and story telling lyric style of Scott Thompson and you're just floored. On this particular night it was Erik Lindstrom and Jimmy Haidacher that really grabbed my attention. Erik, who seemed to be on his feet for the entire set doubling on drums and keys was candy for both the eyes and ears. While Jimmy Haidacher's bass lines were tighter than his skinny boy jeans. It was an exceptional set. One that defined the night for me.
Meet Pause Facebook

Face the King "This scarf's for you."

Now I won't go as far as saying I have any psychic powers but... whenever I see a group of hot young women dressed for sin gather around the stage to check out a band. There are too two things one can almost guarantee.
1. That band will most definitely suck.
2. You will not see any of those women once that sucky bands leaves the stage. Though I won't go as far as saying these guys sucked. Excellent musicianship and a big rock sound go a long way. The bands arena rock sound just didn't match the vibe of the room or the scant amount of people in attendance. After one or two songs I found myself looking for anything else to occupy my time.
Face The King Band Site

Gerry Perlinski of Lost Romance "Jersey Strong"

Lost Romance followed bringing somewhat of a breath of much needed fresh air to the room. While I've been keeping tabs on the bands steady climb through their Facebook page for some time now. I find it strange that I haven't seen the band since they played NYC's
Bowery Electric during the
CMJ festival in the fall of 2011. The New Brunswick trio have since kept very racking up their share of trophies, awards and praise from the New Jersey music press and beyond. Gerry, Tony and Amine play a style of alternative rock that often reminds me of the pre MTV Power Pop boom.
I had put seeing Lost Romance on a high priority for 2013. Getting to see them perform just a short walk from my home couldn't have made it easier.
Lost Romance Official Site

Invisible Line ; Will and Geoff match skills

Closing an already stellar night were Kearny, New Jersey favorites Invisible Lines. I first fell in love with these guys when they performed at the Brick City Sound Riot Music Festival back in 2011. Since that time they've become one of my favorite acts on the Jersey scene and beyond. The bands 2010 E.P. "Wise Up" helped in turning Killing Horse records and the Tiny Giants Artist Collective into household names here at United By... The band has been laying low as of late, writing and recording new material due for release in 2013. One can only hope we'll be hearing something sooner than later in the year. The band played a high energy, climactic set that mixed both old and new tracks. It's been quite a while since I'd seen them live and I couldn't help notice
Will Acevedo singing lead on more songs than in the past. It also cannot go without noting the addition of Geoff Bennington. Though he's been a member of Invisible Lines for over a year now; this was my first time seeing him perform live with the band. I really like his energy and he sure knows how to play that guitar.
Invisible Lines Facebook

I really enjoyed catching up with the bands and seeing so many familiar faces on this particular night. The Spring and the coming Summer are sure to bring us many shows, events and chances to quench our endless thirst for live music. I'll definitely be seeing you. Until then... James Damion

Plow United, Iron Chic and The Unlovables Play Brooklyn's Knitting Factory

As I entered Brooklyn's Knitting Factory I almost immediately spied my comrade in arms Jim Testa of Jersey Beat. He invited me out to the show earlier in the week with the promise of good music merriment and a free pass for the night. As I met up with Jim we immediately started communicated in our shared language of music. The man stands as a testament of why Jersey Beat has stood the test of time for over thirty years. His knowledge of and understanding of music and the people who make it is astounding. Though our taste in music often differs. I feel that since my musical palette and knowledge has grown considerably since I initially became an occasional contributor to Jersey Beat and NJ.com. After buying Jim a beer and briefly meeting Mikey Erg and Pity Party's guitarist Fid, we headed to the ticket booth to get our free passes. Alas, Jim Testa was clearly printed in thick black marker on the second page. However, yours truly, his supposed +1 was mysteriously absent. Light on cash from my prior alcohol consumption and a little pissed about my exclusion, I looked at Jim like a man stepping up to an ATM. Jim gazed back with eyes as empty as his pockets. As to say, "Don't look at me." I was on my own. I sucked it up and paid for my ticket. I was on my own.

Love for the Unlovables

The Unlovables opened and got the show off to a good start, igniting an already full house and setting the tone for the entire night. Lead singer Hallie spent the entire set on the dance floor firing up the enthusiastic crowd. Though this my first exposure to Hallie and the band, I found myself dancing with a sense of wild abandon to each and every song. The bands upbeat, party pop sound was so addictive; Even this old, bitter and jaded old man couldn't help but be overcome by the musics warmth. Song titles like "Dance Party", "Being in Love" and "If you were here"wouldn't be my normal choice of themes to rock out to; But for Christ's sake, who wants to be normal? Later, as the show wound down. I headed over to the merch tables where I spotted the bands tasty looking colored vinyl. Unfortunately for me, I had spent my last chunk of cash earlier on other spirits. Regardless, I loved the Unlovables and hope to catch them again soon.
The Unlovables

The night moved along quickly as Long Island's Iron Chic took the stage.
The oft desribed super group features members of Latterman, Small Arms Dealer and Capital to name a few. The band played an rousing set that had the crowd singing in unison.

 Long Island's Iron Chic

Their sound blends punk and hardcore with emo influenced guitars and anthemic vocals. Vocalist Jason Lubrano prowled the stage as he worked up a very active crowd. It's always a personal pleasure for me, seeing the crowd become part of the show. I seem to have gotten used to witnessing people so involved with their electronic devices and distancing themselves from the stage to post about how much fun they're having at the moment. Iron Chic definitely kept that energy level high and kicked the adrenaline up a notch. Iron Chic

It had already been a stellar night of diverse sounds and positive energy by the time the nights headliner  Plow United launched into their set.

Plow United 

Like The Unlovables and
Iron Chic, this was my first time seeing Plow perform live.
To say they exceeded any expectations would be a major understatement.
The Unlovables and Iron Chic may have ignited the crowd. Plow, on the other hand, brought the gasoline can.
The trio, for lack of a better term, plowed through a set of sweaty, testosterone filled Punk Rock excellence.
Along the way the band was joined on stage by Unlovables vocalist Hallie Bulleit and drummer Mikey Erg playing guitar. Personally, my favorite moment came when drummer Sean Rule switched instruments with bassist Joel Tannenbaum. It added an extra notch to an already perfect night. Plow United

This was my first Brooklyn show of the year and a long overdue return to the Knitting Factory. As the weather warms I will surely be spending a lot more time in this storied borough. Until then, James Damion

Bad Pilgrim - Self Titled 7 Song EP

Ska music has had a way of weaving in and out of my life unexpectedly decade after decade since I was a wee boy who fell in love with the Specials, English Beat and Madness. Since then, various revivals and sprinklings of the genre have popped up, keeping the beat and making happy feat while paying homage to both it's originators and the ones who put their own stamp on it along the way. Though the genre rarely strays from the original game plan. It still manages to maintain my loyalty and serves as a "go to" style of music that never fails to bring out the goof in me.
Though this north New Jersey trio refers to  their style as punk. Bad Pilgrim come off sounding more like 90's Ska revivalists like Operation Ivy and Reel Big Fish than anything. The trio (sorry, no horns) offer upbeat, quick pace songs with skank inspiring riffs.
All of which are delivered in short form with each of the seven tracks being delivered in around two minutes or less. The band has a handful of local New York, New Jersey and Pennsylvania gigs scheduled to support the EP's April 3rd release.
Check them out here. Bad Pilgrim Official  James Damion

Bad Pilgrim  Bandcamp

Kevin Egan - Kevin Egan is a Jerk

"Kevin Egan is a Jerk"
the latest musical endeavor by singer/author Kevin Egan. Though you may know Kevin best from his late 80's / early 90's work with NYHC's Beyond and 1.6 Band. His newest release is reflects more on his later recordings as
Rules of the Fort and most recently, his work with the Country act
Twenty Four Thousand Dollars.

"Kevin Egan is a Jerk" features nine tracks of folky acoustic storytelling that is both laid back and heart warming.
The stripped down approach highlights the fact that life and at times music, is about the simple things. "High over Queens" and the somewhat airy
"A Shitload of Songs" were standouts for me. In listening to "Kevin Egan is a Jerk". I felt that each song built on the previous one. It just felt as if this EP got better with each song. Though I think Mr. Egan's voice will never get him to the lightning round of American Idol or The Voice. It's good to see the evolution his music and sound have gone through over the years. James Damion


Kevin Egan is a Jerk  Bandcamp

On the Wheels of Steel with DJ Laytonic

I've always been interested in the art of spinning records. Turntable science, mixing, the flow of hands from record to record and of course, the unique sampling I always found joy in. The ability to, not only move the crowd, but to control it's movement. My early childhood included an education from some of the very best. Afrika Bambaataa, Grandmaster Flash, Jam Master Jay, Erik B. and Terminator X too name just a few. As I got older my interest in DJing grew and though I did my share of DJing in the CD format. It never came close to the joy and authenticity of putting the needle to the record and exploring the grooves on the vinyl. I hope that talking to some of my favorite current DJ's will bring me closer to that. Thanks Layton, James Damion

James: How did you get into DJing?

Layton: I've always wanted to DJ since I was a kid.
I grew up listening to a lot of cassette tapes my older cousin would give me when he wasn't using them anymore. Most of the tapes were from LL Cool J, Run DMC, and
the Beastie Boys. This would be my intro to hiphop music. From there I got more in tune to other artists like A Tribe Called Quest, The Roots, De La Soul, and Mos Def. I always had a love for hiphop and hiphop culture since I was a kid, but was only a fan and avid listener.

Recently I moved to Coney Island, away from most of the people I know that live in Williamsburg and Greenpoint. It's a lot less expensive and allows me to focus on my music more intimately. This time away from the circus of non-stop nightlife and music events gave me time to get back to things I always wanted to do. So I went out and bought a cheap set of turntables and a mixer and borrowed a lot of vinyl from my Dad's collection. Within a few weeks I piled up on all my favorite hip-hip singles from growing up and stuff I'd heard over the years. Exploring parts of New York City for record shops and building up a higher score on eBay, I soon became a vinyl junkie.

James: What was the learning process like?

Layton: You'd be surprised how much information is out there online. Even though I grew up watching a lot of DJing from music videos and DJ battles, I just tried to figure it out on my own. I've found a ton of videos on YouTube that have helped me setup my turntables correctly and learned to do a few mixes. I'm a big fan of Electronic and Techno DJ's. I watch and listen to a lot of guys like Jamie XX, Actress, Caribou, and Lone. These guys do a lot of blending and smooth transitions between songs so there's never a gap in the music. Like a stream of consciousness or a continual thought. This technique is something I try to incorporate into spinning hiphop instrumentals.


James: Tell me a little about Laytonic and what you do/offer. What makes you stand out / stand apart? Is there a specific genre or music style you focus on?

Layton: Laytonic is a nickname that stuck with me from college and now it's a way for me to explore the elements that make up hip-hop music. I focus a lot on the production that was coming out in the 90's. Producers like DJ Premier, Pete Rock, J Dilla, and Q-Tip are some of my heroes. Part of me feels like not enough people really embrace their music. So I started collecting all my favorite cuts on vinyl and made sure the singles I bought had instrumentals. There's a lot of jazzy and rhythmic beats made by these amazing producers and I wanted to really create that vibe as a DJ. Even though a lot of the stuff I play is from the 90's, to me it has such a classic feel that it can't feel dated. Aside from the hiphop instrumentals I play, I also spin a good amount of R&B/Soul records from the 80's like Sade, Anita Baker, and Michael Jackson.

James: Where do you spin?

Layton: You can see me spinning in Brooklyn and Manhattan. Right now I'm working on a special event at Pianos Sunday April 7th during brunch. It's gonna be real chill and a perfect way to relax after a weekend of partying.

James: You grew up in the age of compact discs and are currently in an age of digital downloads. How did you originally get into vinyl.

Layton: One day a good friend of mine was explaining to me the process of digital media vs. analog. He told me about binary code and how digital media is comprised of a series of 1's and 0's to make up the code. Even though this code is minute and too small for the average person to hear a difference, the binary code is something our brains as listeners has to compute and interpret, whereas when we listen to an analog sound like vinyl, there is no binary code. The sound waves move out of the speakers as air and our eardrums are being stimulated by the air. So its a more natural way of listening. Have you ever tried to turn up your favorite song on an MP3? It can be pretty painful especially if you're wearing headphones. This could be my imagination, but there are times when I feel like I can turn the volume up pretty high when listening to vinyl and only want more. Like Dilla said
"Turn It Up!" A Little Louder!".

James: You recently travelled to Philly for Dilla Day. What was your introduction to his music?
Did you come back with anything particularly special or unique from that trip?

Layton: This past February was Dilla month. My all time favorite and hands down best producer of all time is J Dilla aka Jay Dee. He's been credited for creating Neo-Soul and gained a lot of attention for the Detroit music scene. The production he's done for groups like
A Tribe Called Quest, Common, Erykah Badu, Slum Village, The Pharcyde, De La Soul, Madlib, and many more would not be who they are today if it wasn't for J Dilla. I first got exposed to his beats back in 1996 when I first heard
"Stakes Is High" by
De La Soul. I wasn't even a big De La fan at the time, but that beat was so compelling I had to have a copy. From there I started hearing his name on other amazing beats from Tribe, Busta Rhymes, and Janet Jackson. He soon became a household name for me and I wanted everything he put his mark on.

During my first year in college is when I first heard J Dilla's own group called Slum Village. He did all the beats for their first 2 albums and did his own emceeing for the first time. It was some of the greatest music I've ever heard. To this day I still listen to those beats and play some at my shows. Just a few years later from hearing that first Slum stuff I found out that he passed away from Lupus and rare blood complications that he'd been struggling with for years. He was born on February 7, 1974 and died on February 10, 2006. Since his death, fans from all over the world have embraced his legacy and have celebrated his life and music during the month of February. Now almost ever major city has an event in his name. This year I ventured down to where I grew up in Philly and attended Dilladelphia.
The place was packed with Dilla heads and there were performances and artwork shared that night in honor of him. The J Dilla Foundation was there as well and they have some of the best J Dilla merch where proceeds go to J Dilla's estate (his hospital bills are still being paid off). So I bought a couple t-shirts and a 7" single for my collection.

James: What's your vinyl collection made up of? What are the prized possessions?

Layton: All styles. I enjoy collecting a good amount of R&B/soul records from the Motown era. Artists like The Spinners, The Stylistics, Marvin Gaye, and Diana Ross can be found in my collection as well as rare and hard to find Hiphop singles like the underground hit
"Inner City Blues" by Rezidue (a New York artist featured on DJ Premier's NY Reality Check 101 Mixtape). A big supporter of Stones Throw, I own several of their releases including Jaylib, Madvillian,
Karriem Riggins,
Georgia Anne Muldrow, and Homeboy Sandman, all on vinyl. Through hiphop I got introduced to a lot of electronic music. I believe there's a time and place for all music. Listening to artists like Lukid or Lone really set a certain mood that can be atmospheric and up-beat. I also enjoy staying up to date with current trends in indie/alternative rock like Toro Y Moi and Atoms For Peace.
And I can't forget my college roots in jazz with my favorite Blue Note releases like
Miles Davis "Kind Of Blue", Grant Green "Street Of Dreams", and Lee Morgan
"The Sidewinder".

One of my prized possessions is a vinyl record by jazz guitarist Wes Montgomery.
This was a record owned by Dilla. I found out that his mother Maureen Yancey was starting to sell a portion of his record collection to fans through eBay. Each record mailed out included a certificate of authenticity and a letter signed by Ma Dukes herself. Even though Dilla might not of used this record for one of his beats, it's still feels amazing to own something that belonged to him.

Laytonic  Check out Laytonic Here

Talking to Drummer Tony "Detroit" Scandiffio

When I first approached Tony about doing an interview he seemed more than a bit surprised by my interest. "Who would be interested in my story?" seemed to be the vibe I got. The idea was one that had built slowly during the last couple of years. Though we had become casual friends through his playing drums in I Hope You Die, The Extras and Strange Things Done in the Midnight Sun with fellow friend and early UBRS contributor Shannon Perez. It was his involvement with the seminal Hardcore act Hogan's Heroes and 90's purveyors of positive Hardcore OS101 that really peaked my curiosity. The following is part I and II of my interview with Tony. Here's what he had to share. James Damion

James: Being that I got into Hardcore at the same time Hogan's Heroes first demos were making the rounds.
Hogan's Heroes, along with many others were an early and very important influence on me.
I know you weren't one of the original cast of characters so I wanted to know how you came into being the bands drummer.

Tony: You're right,  I was not an original member.  I had been in bands during high school. Both  part of  the  school and in my own bands with friends. Nothing noteworthy, mostly covers with high school friends. I was really into skateboarding at the time. I started  skating seriously in eighth grade. I had  clowned  around  on  a skateboard as  early as i can  remember. Maybe since the fifth grade, I don't know. When I entered the eighth grade, my family  moved  to Bricktown New Jersey on Mantoloking rd. which is the  road  that leads  to the beach. Me and my friends would ride our bikes with surfboards  in tow all summer long and loved it. That whole area was hit very hard by Hurricane Sandy. We would steal wood in order to build skate ramps. During that time I was introduced to Punk and Hardcore.
We skated to the Dead Kennedy's, Agent Orange, The Faction, Youth Brigade and so many more.

It was around this time when one of my skater buddies who was also a drummer told me he had another skater friend who was looking for a drummer. He had immediately thought of me because they had a really fast style and didn't know anyone that fit that. I gave George, the band's guitarist, and we met up with the bands bassist John Cuccunello. They explained they needed a new drumming due to the fact that their original drummer and singer from the first two demos had left the band. I told them I would check out the demos and get back to them. They had some shows already booked and needed an answer quick. I thought about how I had really wanted to play original music. Especially punk and skate rock. So I learned the demos and tried out for the band. When the day of the try out came I finally got to meet Skip, who was trying out to be the bands singer. Skip was from Bayville or somewhere a little further south. We were in the same boat, trying out for the band. Not knowing if we were going to make the cut or even if we really wanted to be in the band. Somehow it all clicked and we started practicing, skating and playing shows. Before we knew it, we were ready to record. "What, record?" "But we already have two demos." We needed to record something with our new singer Skip. We made another demo and started playing as many shows as we could. We were working hard and trying to find our way. This one show we played at CBGB's was a particularly good Sunday matinee. As we finished our set we were approached by this guy Nicky Garret. He was really stoked on us and explained played in the U.K. Subs, had his own record label and wanted to do a record with us. We signed the contract in the cantina next door that night. I was maybe sixteen. I couldn't believe it.

James: Growing up in Queens, NY. The Jersey shore felt like the other side of the planet to me. What was the Jersey HXC Punk scene like at the time?

Tony: The question of New Jersey Punk/Hardcore VS New York Punk/Hardcore is an interesting one. We were trying to play New York City for a while. We were from Jersey and at the time there was a lot of schism and stigma clouding the scene. You had Punks, Skins, Straight Edge, Drugs and New York VS New Jersey. It was a real challenge for us to get a show in New York. Once you get a show... how do you keep the New York kids in the room when they here you're from Jersey. A lot of hard work, determination, blood, sweat, more blood and sweat. That's how! Our singer Skip was very likable and had some serious charisma. It helped us a lot. We were working hard and playing harder. We had just been signed and were not about to lose to New York. "We're from Jersey." "We play loud and we play proud."

We had become friends with bands like Token Entry, Murphy's Law, American Standard, Vision and many others along the way. We did this awesome little tour with them down to DC and Richmond.
We were getting good shows and were about to put out our second record when all of John's hard work really started paying off. We landed a weekend of shows with California's Uniform Choice,
7 Seconds and the
Circle Jerks. There was a lot of momentum and we were totally stoked. All of our hard work and networking was paying off.

James: I always felt the bands sound had more a California feel than that of the New York scene. Would you agree? Would that have any thing to do with being so close to the shore or were that just the sound you found an influence in?

Tony: The mix of Jersey/Cali beach influenced sound, we had that vibe. We all surfed, we all skated and we all loved the beach and loved  Punk Rock . The blonde dreadlocks and the fact that we were not looking to be one of those "Tough Guy" Hardcore bands.

James: Some of the bands I worshiped early on were skate bands like the Faction, JFA and closer to home, Token Entry. How old were you when you started skating? Were the specific bands of that ilk that really set the tone? What about surfing?

Tony: Our overall sound had a lot of different influences. The Faction, Agent Orange,
7 Seconds, the Descendents and even the Bad Brains. The band definitely had a Cali,
Posi-Core vibe. There was definitely a positive message to our songs.

James: So, how does a kid from the beaches of New Jersey get the nickname
"Tony Detroit"?

Tony: Well  back  in  the  day (start wind chimes and  dream  sequence  music) I worked on the back of a garbage truck and was a Red Wings fan. The company I worked for had a productivity incentive   which would allow us to work from 6:00 am till noon (6 hours ) and get  paid for eight hours if we used      a designated  meet up truck had all the work  done. When we would first meet up in the AM and made arraignments to get it and go. We'd be hanging off the trucks, running through streets, yards, woods, parking lots and highways in order to get work done as early as possible. This way, we had so much more time to enjoy the day fishing, surfing, skating, music or sleeping. Whatever it took to make that time. That was what was important. We were maybe twenty and at that time and getting that free time to party was what life was all about. A lot of the guys I worked with would see me in my
Red Wings hat and knew that I played some form of Rock and Roll. That and anyone that worked on my truck knew my "Get it and Go" attitude. That all led to the name
"Tony Detroit". Somehow, the name just stuck. The term "Tony Detroit Diesel" was inspired, humbly so, by Mackie. (Cro-mags, Leeway) OS101 was playing a show at CBGB's and Mackie was talking to Skip. (OS101 singer) Mackie said "Your drummer RIPS."
"He's fucking diesel." A pretty awesome compliment coming from one of the greatest drummers of our generation. So I hear this and thought "That's a compliment that should not be taken lightly." It stuck with me. Through the years I've been called "Tony Detroit", "Detroit Tony Diesel", "The Beat" "T-Bone" etc, etc.

James: I was always curious as to how Hogan's Heroes became OS101. Was there a significant breathing period between the two bands? What was the cause or reasoning in regards to the change?

"You wouldn't like me when I'm angry" Tony keeps the beat with OS101 at CBGB's

Tony: There was quite a bit of time between the two. I was collaborating with a lot of different people at the time and was always open to jamming with others.
After I left Hogan's Heroes they went on to release more music and tour with replacements.
One of which was Ian, who would later play bass in OS 101. John, the bass player for Hogan's Heroes switched over to guitar for them. After Hogan's Heroes had run their pace, John and Skip asked me if I wanted to come on board to form OS 101 with them. At the time, I was playing in another band. I was playing with them and OS for about two weeks. Finally, I decided to ask the other one to find a new drummer. OS101 my main focus.

James: You went from a tough guy Hardcore scene in the 80's with Hogan's Heroes to dealing with some straight up thugs in the 90's with OS101. Yet the band always remained positive and had an uplifting message. I can only imagine how hard it might have been to not let that effect you.

Tony: As far as the whole thugs VS tough guys in the scene goes. Skip always had a charisma and smile about him. We were all good hearted guys and though drama might be happening all around you. You don't have to escalate or participate in any of it. We knew a lot of fold that were tied to it. Their music was Hardcore, which to most, is a very different and aggressive sound. We were just trying to unite kids that were into the music and a part of the scene. Anyone who had seen us would never refer to us as tough guys or thugs.
We just wanted to have fun and give everything our best. It wasn't rare when we got respect from some of the so called "Tough Guys". Some of them grew up watching us play shows as Hogan's Heroes as kids. We had longevity on our sides, especially in South Jersey.

James: OS101 was also the first Hardcore band I remember since Murphy's Law to incorporate horns into your music. How did the opportunity to bring in Catch 22's horn section on "Pure Vida" come about. Did you ever get to play out live with them?

Tony: I was going to a lot of shows at the time. I was a lot younger and had a lot less responsibilities than I do now. At the time, both OS 101 and Catch 22 were on
Victory Records and were featured on one of the labels samplers.
(Victory Style III and IV) I really liked their songs and noticed they were from Jersey. I went to see them play live.
They were a lot of fun. Something that OS 101 always tried to bring to their shows.
It was a no brainer. We became friends and played some shows together. At the same time, we were getting ready to record "Pure Vida" over at Trax East. It just so happened that they lived in the immediate area and were more than familiar with the place, having recorded there. Trax East is an amazing studio is South River New Jersey, owned and operated by Eric Rachel. The song,
"Spam in a Can" had a an intro with lots of wasted space that needed to be filled. When we asked if they would be wiling to record some horns for the record. They loved the idea. We met up and they really juiced it up. Etched in history by Eric from Trax. The man is so easy to work with and knows his gear. There is no comparing the work he does. I'd recommend him and the studio to anyone.

Hogan's Heroes  Download

OS101 Victory Records

Altered Boys - S/T EP

I picked up the Altered Boys when I was down at Baltimore's Celebrated Summer Records a couple of weeks ago.
The records cover photo reminded me of many of the mysteriously faceless bands and records I find on Grave Mistake and
Sorry State Records.
Tasty vinyl I always seem to fall in love with. As I returned home to Hoboken I was happily surprised to see that the band was located so close to home.

Straight up, nasty Hardcore with gruff vocals. Simple, yet thoroughly satisfying record that won't let you down.
Smart, thought provoking lyrics that touch on real subjects such as anxiety and spirituality.
The record nicely follows up their 2011 demo, showing progress while not straying from the original dye. I've seen the bands name on a few upcoming shows and hope to catch them live. This little EP will do just fine for now. James Damion

Get it Here

An Eclectic Mix Gathers at Montclair's Meatlocker

As I entered Montclair's dark, cavernous dungeon The Meatloacker. I thought to myself the same thing I think each and every time I enter the towns long standing ass in the wall. "What the fuck an I doing here?" It was almost 10:00 pm and much of nothing was taking place. After standing around for a couple of minutes I headed back to my car and started the engine. Lucky for me, I changed my mind once again and decided to go back. The following is what transpired.

I was not the least bit familiar with Old Bridge, New Jersey's The Luna Laval and twenty minutes after they had taken the stage, I still wasn't absolutely sure if what I was witnessing was a prolonged sound check or the bands actual set. To be perfectly honest, if it turned out that sound check happened to be their set, I would have been just as impressed. The band played a a complex musical style that somehow escapes a lot of the trappings of genre addicted listeners. A trait that can both open and close doors for a lot of bands, depending on the listener. As I stood there I found myself somewhat mesmerized by Tom Risi's tasty Bass play and overall movement.
Though the bass has become my most appreciated instrument in recent years.
I find most of my favorite players are too often, stationary musicians who blend into the background, rather than the forefront. Risi's movement and presence reminded me fondly of Nate Mendel (Foo Fighters,
Sunny Day Real Estate. Brotherhood.) Considering they were the shows opening band and it was my first time seeing them. They left a lasting impression on me. Definitely a band I'd like to see and hear more from. The Luna Laval

The time in between bands can often be long and socially awkward for me. But just as the stage remained empty. There was music and a sense of community happening on the floor thanks to the warm sounds of John Bentonamo's ukalele playing. Talk about a spirited individual. At the moment I didn't want to upset the intimacy of the small gathering by stepping in. Instead, I decided to loom close enough to take in all the mirth and celebration while not disturbing any tribal rituals that might be occurring.

The Harrison Four quickly assembled and though this DC area band was a late addition to the show. They made their presence notable immediately. Even as the band tuned up I could swear I heard little Minor Threat and Fugazi riffs being tested. Their set had a warm upbeat nature that was musically impressive, while remaining fun and light hearted. The addition of a horn player for the show didn't hurt things one bit. I felt a strong Lookout Records meets DC vibe. The band even busted out a Cleveland Bound Death Sentence. Impressive, to say the very least. I looked the band up before writing this and found out their also vegans. Kinda cool if you want to break bread with them after a show.
The Harrison Four

Raleigh's Empire were up next and I had the feeling I was up for something dark and heavy when I got a look at the material they were selling at the merch table. The band did not disappoint one bit. Turning the floor into their extended stage and bringing it to the small crowd of on watchers. I kept a safe distance from lead singer Ben Daughtry. Steering clear of his spitting fits. I like my bread just as crusty as the next guy. Just don't want to get caught in a shower without an umbrella. The band sounded great and brought an entirely different energy to the show. I picked up their CD "Shedding Skin" and should have some kind of review posted in the near future. In the meantime, check out the bands page and see for yourself. Empire

After three really good and diverse acts had played, I was feeling a lot better. Three bands down and two to go. Polyphony were next and just happened to be one of the two bands I was there to see. If you follow the blog you may recall they were one of the first bands interviewed for UBRS and if I remember correctly, the first guest interview from Shannon Perez of I Hope You Die. I was really shocked that the bands singer Marshall Davidson even recognized me after only meeting me once. It's been two years and though my interest in the band hasn't wained, I think I've missed a ton of shows. The band launched into their set and I could instantly see and hear the musical growth these young but very talented people have gone through. When I originally caught them at the Court Tavern they sounded raw but very good. They also seemed very stationary. Perhaps confined by the small space the  room, just to the side of the entrance, permitted. On this particular night, the band had all the room they needed to release their unbridled energy along with any other odors Marshall "Marsh-mellow" Davidson was omitting at the time. Polyphony would best be described as a screamo outfit. (Judging from the fact their lead singer seemed to be vomiting into a bag in between songs.) However, they are quite musical. They've changed drummers since the last time I saw them and as far as these ears could tell, it's brought they're blitzkrieg assault to a new level. Shortly into their set it seems the nights arctic temperatures were more than their brave frontman could handle and with some help from the aforementioned John Bentonoma's help, the shirt and eventually the pants came off. Upon witnessing this one can only hope Marsh-mellow can find some time in his busy schedule to hit the weights and get some much needed sun. Polyphony

By the time Ola Madrid hit the stage, it was well past 1:00am and to be honest, I was quickly fading. About a month back the bands guitarist Dylan Young sent me the bands September 2012 debut release
"Distance to Decay".
The five song EP has been getting a lot of play here at the UBRS headquarters.
The chance to catch them live seemed like a no brainer.
I came to this show with high expectations for this band. To say they raised the bar would be the understatement of the early year. The bands energy level and musical proficiency immediately ignited the crowd and gave me the little extra boost I needed to get through the late hour and the drive home that followed. The band has a new record due out this spring. It would be wise to keep your eyes and ears on the look out. Ola Madrid
For someone who was about to leave before the show had even started, this turned out to be the best and most eclectic show in recent memory. See you all next time.
James Damion

I Don't Feel Tardy: The Week in Images

Below are some images from two shows I attended last week. Arriving late to both Montclair's Meatlocker and Clifton's Clash Bar, I ended up missing half of each of the shows. Lucky for me I made it in time to see old favorites in The Nolan Gate and
Cinema Cinema. At the same time, my ears were open to Toothgrinder and Dad Brother for the first time. Here were two very different bands that excelled in different ways. Toothgrinder, with their intense sound and out of control performance had me craving for more. While Dad Brother won me over with their Bluesy laid back Rock sound. I'm looking forward to hearing and seeing more from each of these acts in the coming months.
Until then... James Damion

Darin Galgano The Nolan Gate

Tooth Grinder

Ev Gold Cinema Cinema

Paul Claro Cinema Cinema

Andrew Lange Dad Brother

Talking to Aquarian Photographer Roz Smith

It's nearly impossible to go to a show these days without seeing any number of photographers lining up in front of or alongside of the stage. Add to that the sea of concert goers with iPhones, BlackBerry's and other electronic devices hoisted in the air like cigarette lighters were decades ago at stadiums, forums and auditoriums around the world. We live in an age where every moment is documented and shared for the world to see.
Being a photographer in my own right. I'm always eager to communicate and share experiences with my fellow shooters. Having shared the pit numerous times with Roz. I decided to reach out to the Aquarian Weekly photographer to learn about her beginnings, inspirations and working with the longest running alt. music weekly. James Damion

James: I don't know if you remember, but I fondly recall the first time we met. It was at the Brick City Sound Riot. We were both shooting the event and I remember being a bit drained after hours of shooting and jumping around like an idiot. We had exchanged pleasantries during the day but it's when either Invisible Lines or Those Mockingbirds were set to play, when you gave me somewhat of a warning that something really good was about to happen. Do you remember? Were you shooting for anyone in particular then?

Roz: I do remember that night and I'm pretty sure Those Mockingbirds were about to play.
I was mainly shooting for myself that night, especially seeing how it was the first show I felt like shooting in some time. That was a good night.

Lawrence Trailer

James: When did you first become interested in photography? Was there any specific style or photographers that initially inspired you?

Roz: Hrm, that's a good question.
I can't really put a year or date on when I started getting into photography. As a kid I used to buy a bunch of disposable cameras and just go shutter crazy with them- taking pictures of everything and everyone. Then I got my first point-and-shoot when I was maybe 10 or 12 and it was all uphill from there.
When it comes to photographers who have inspired me generally Cass Bird and Cindy Sherman have been two of my biggest inspirations. Todd Owyoung is another one I can lump into the group. There wasn't a particular style that inspired me, I wanted to shoot everything and everyone from landscapes, portraits, pets and especially bands.

James: How old were you when you started going to shows? Do you remember your first?

Roz: I was probably 15 or 16 when I first really started going to shows. My first show was in this basement in West New York. It was definitely a fire hazard type of deal but so much fun.

Morning James: How long before you started bringing your camera with you?

Roz: I had it with me from the first show. I had my little point and shoot with me and I probably pissed so many people off but fuck it,
I was having fun.

James: Do you remember who played? What is it that made people so pissed at you?
Were you blinding people with your flash?

Roz: Oh jeeze, I don't remember the full bill sadly. Probably my flash and the awkward positions I'd find myself in to get the shot I wanted. But hey, it's in the past (Laughs).

James: What was your first SLR camera? Do you consider yourself a gear head when it comes to what you shoot? What do you use now?

Roz: My first digital SLR was my Canon Rebel XS. I had that for four or five years before I upgraded to the Mark III. I wouldn't say I'm a "gear head" but I do some pretty ridiculous research before I purchase something new for my camera. My current body is the Canon Mark III, the lenses I shoot with are Canon's 24-105mm f/4 L IS USM, 28mm f/2.8, 40mm f/2.8 STM and my old favorite the 50mm f/1.8 II. I recently bought a Canon Speedlite 580EX II, which has been interesting to learn how to use after upgrading from a Bower flash.

James: So, what was the image that got you noticed? What was the band?

Roz: To be honest with you, I have no idea what got me noticed. 

James: Do you have any battle scars, broken gear or stories of out of control pits to share?

The Protomen

Roz: I certainly have had plenty of battle scars from shooting shows! I was at Mexicali Live shooting a band I love called
The Protomen and at one point one of the monitors fell off the stage and onto my foot. I've been pushed around, had screaming matches with other photographers (small photo pits will do that to ya) and had to protect my camera from the occasional drink thrower. I actually did crack the screen of my Rebel at a show, apparently sensitive screens aren't a fan of being pushed into sharp corners…..who would've guessed it!

James: How did you come to work with the Aquarian? What was your first assignment with them?

Roz: I just applied for an internship when I was still in college, had an interview and I've been there ever since. I started writing show previews, or Spotlights as we call them, but as far as my first major assignment I don't remember. I should probably dig through our archive and find out. Now I'm curious.

James: Have you taken on more responsibilities with them since then?
Roz: I have! I run their social-media sites and I run this video interview series called Project Greenroom.

James: I'm not familiar with it. Can you fill me in?

Roz: Project Greenroom is a video interview series where bands can, if they want to, also perform acoustically. I try to shoot them frequently but sometimes scheduling doesn't work out ya know.

Reese Van Riper

James: Where do you want to go with your photography? Where do you see yourself in say five years?

Roz: Hm, good question. As far as where
I want to go with my photography, I just want to keep on shooting bands
I love and work on coming up with some out there concepts for photo shoots. I do have an idea for a photo book I'd love to publish. Well in five years I hope to still be doing what I love, with another job to support my habits of going to shows and buying camera equipment. Frankly, I have no idea where I'll be in five years and that's the beauty of it. I'm just taking one day at a time and going from there.

(All photos, including her self portrait, by Roz Smith)

Roz Smith Photography  Facebook

Project Greenroom  The Aquarian Weekly

The Last Stand - The Time is Now LP

Many of my favorite records require a few go throughs before really getting a sense of what works and what makes me really appreciate  just what it is about that particular grouping of songs that resonate with me. "The Time is Now" reminded me of that, with one exception. In listening to these songs the first and second time through. I felt an immediate kinship with the music and the songs. However, it wasn't until
I sat down to write this review that I realized just what that connection was. It was that
The Last Stand and
"The Time is Now" reminds me of all the things I loved about late 80's Hardcore mixed with  the very few things that kept me interested in the genre during the 90's.
Heavy riffage, deep rhythms and pile on backing  vocals run rampant throughout the records thirteen songs. Scondotto's voice is powerful, delivering smart lyrics that convey strength and mental toughness. Imagine, if you can, a more fluid, cohesive sounding Roger Miret (Agnostic Front).Though  the bands sound easily follows the lineage of acts such as Sick of it All, Madball and the aforementioned Agnostic Front. The Last Stand clearly create their own identity while establishing themselves as a Hardcore act to help fuel the future of the genre. James Damion

Eulogy Recordings  Buy it Here

The Last Stand  Band Site

The Fax Machine Situation - Breakfast at the Pagan House

We really enjoy hearing from you here at 

United By Rocket Science. Being given the opportunity to hear new and different sounds from our area and beyond only broaden our horizons and help us to expand the music we feature here. With that said, we'd appreciate it if the artists that submit music for review take a moment to familiarize themselves with the blog to better understand what we cover. I feel that minimal investment of time will go a long way in helping you decide if these are the best hands to leave your love and passion with.

Princeton New Jersey's The Fax Machine Situation might have benefited from that investment and gotten a return on it by skipping right over U.B.R.S. when submitting material to the many local entertainment outlets.

Add the Fax Machine Situation and their EP "Breakfast at the Pagan House" to my short list of the most unlistenable releases of 2013. Not since the Gone Quite Mad's self titled over indulgence has a release moved me in such a negative way. Though "System", 

"Finding a Pause", "Bullseye Blues" and "Breakfast at the Pagan House" are respectable musically with their blend of laid back and jazzy vibes. It's Katie Henkels whose voice would be best described as an ice pick to the ears.  As the EP begins I found myself racing for the volume with the hopes of saving my eardrums from the caterwauling that immediately ensues. (Imagine in horror, attempting to make it through the opening track of a record. Hoping in vain that the next would somehow, be better.) Unfortunately, braving the following three was no pleasure cruise either. Though I'm sure this would bode well in some cafe or back room parlor. I find it to be a rather bitter pill to swallow. James Damion

The Situation  Facebook

TV Sound - Record Jacket Life

As we returned from vacation
I was greeted by a package from my favorite local record nerds at Killing Horse Records.
Within the package were familiar new releases from Cicada Radio Review and
The Everymen Review. Releases I had waited on for months with baited breath. Along with those familiar faces came the highly recommended "Record Jacket Life" by TV Sound, a band I had no previous knowledge of.

Though I thought this to be a new release
"Record Jacket Life" is a
re-release of the Kearny, NJ bands 1999 album.
In hindsight I'm happy to have had a chance to listen to this for the first time in 2013, being that my taste in music has evolved some over the years. I'm not sure I would have appreciated it as much then as I do now.

There's not a wasted note on here. A perfect blend of straight up rock and roll sprinkled with power pop muscle, punk attitude and post punk brilliance. As I listened to these sixteen tracks I couldn't help but be reminded of the big power pop sound that peaked just prior to the rise of MTV. "End of Arrogance" is an outstanding track deserves a peak spot on your favorite mix tape. The opening chords to "Posters" immediately had me thinking of R.E.M.'s "What's the Frequency Kenneth". The bratty vocals and genius bass work that follow are as close to perfection as it gets. "Record Jacket Life" is a  gem of an album just waiting to be revisited.
Though the band had been out of commission for years. They're writing new songs and just might  have new music to share in the coming year. One can only hope.
James Damion

Get it Here  KillingHorse Records

Feral Babies / Chemical Ache Split EP

Tampa Florida's Feral Babies team up with Orlando's Chemical Ache to create one hell of a split. Allowing me to enjoy a band I love, all while discovering another.

The Feral Babies side features five songs of muscular Hardcore that are fast, aggressive, angry and above all, musically tight. The band draws you in immediately on the opener "Next Week".
The track is an avalanche of sound with it's bass, drums and blazing guitar excellence. You're already swept up in it's powerful grip by the time
Justin Arnold's vocal attack begins mere seconds later. The next four songs are just as impressive and addictive.
Sulynn Hago's guitar prowess cannot go without mention or praise. Her style and delivery make he one of the best in the game. Having followed the band since their demo days and seeing them live at Brooklyn's Stolen Sleeves Collective in 2012. They've become a favorite of the blog. I sincerely hope they find themselves in our neck of the woods this year.

Chemical Ache's side of the coin offers a different style but sounds just as good in comparison. The band delivers three songs of fast, laser sharp punk with a bratty vocals. "Medicated Kids" comes off sounding like an O.C. Punk classic. The sound is tight and smart with a really great energy.  Each of these three songs had me craving for more.

A stellar release by Kiss of Death records, the Feral Babies and Chemical Ache.
James Damion

Get it Here

Rough Kids - The State I'm In

I've come to a point where I find myself picking up records from Sorry State Records based solely on the clout and reputation the label has built for itself over the years. Much like Revelation Records did in the late 80's. Sorry State is releasing the very best the punk and hardcore communities have to offer.

I came across LA's Rough Kids on the "new releases" section of the label's website.
The labels history matched with the Rough Kids eye catching album artwork more than warranted a purchase. Upon arrival, I slapped it on the turntable, eager to listen to my well chosen investment.

On the band debut full length, L.A.'s Rough Kids deliver some excellent 77' style Punk Rock that might draw comparison and find influence in bands of that era. A nice mix of the adolescent angst of The Undertones and The Buzzcocks ability to write memorable lyrics and choruses. Add to it the guitar bombast of Johnny Thunders with a splash of The Jam's angular guitar smarts. The Rough Kids bring all these elements together to form their own sound. Helping to make "The State I'm In" one hell of an album. Thanks to the Rough Kids and Sorry State Records for this dose of Punk Rock excellence. James Damion

Get it Here  Sorry State Records

The Mistaken - Between Memory and Habit LP

The Mistaken features
Andy Guida and Matt Warnke who team up for the first time since working together on Running Like Thieves 2003 release "Same Time Next Year..."

On "Between Memory and Habit" The Mistaken live up to their namesake as they throw us a musical curve switching gears and sounding unlike any of their past musical endeavors.

This is not Hardcore.
Instead, these ten songs offer a nice blend of Bluesy-Rock and surprising, dare I say,  Country leanings. A lot can be said for musicians, known for creating music within a certain, set genre, step out of the box to create something different. It doesn't always work and is often
illl received. But when it comes off sounding this good and honest. How can one not embrace it with open arms? Matt's Bluesy baritone vocals have him sounding like he spent some time on chain gang channeling the likes of Johnny Cash and Mike Ness. Andy Guida does an excellent job sharing guitar duties, playing bass, piano and drums. All while handling  production duties at his Six III Studios. He really lives up to his reputation as a go to engineer and musician time in and time out.

Though currently a two piece, The Mistaken are looking to take things out of the studio and on to the stage in 2013. They've enlisted Gavin Van Vlack and Dan Cav of Absolution to handle Bass and Guitar duties. So stay tuned. James Damion

Get it Here

Absolution - S/T 4 Song EP

Ever wish you could go back in time and hit the "Do-Over" button? Right the wrongs of the past and tidy shit up a bit? Well, that's exactly what the band Absolution did here. Originally released in 1989 by Combined Effort records.
The self titled four song EP was well received by the Hardcore/Punk community and deservingly praised as somewhat of a much needed breath of fresh air to a style of music that had grown stale due to mediocrity, caused largely by an influx of cookie cutter, paint by number Hardcore bands.
Fast forward twenty something years and a few reunion shows later. The band, which features original members Djinji Brown and Gavin Van Vlack joined by Hardcore veterans Dan Cav and Andy Guida, decided to right some wrongs by going back into the studio and tightening the screws a bit.

Upon hearing the band was going into the studio to record, I was sent into an anticipatory orbit. When Andy Guida, the bands drummer, engineer and producer informed me they were re-recording old material... Well, my anticipation quickly came crashing back to earth. Regardless of the results the improved recording and production might achieve. I couldn't help but scratch my head, wondering "What if that time in the studio produced new Absolution songs?" It felt like a cop out.

Fortunately for me, I decided to put aside any and all preconceived notions and listen with both an open mind and open ears. As the needle hit the records and "A Drop of Patience" kicked in. I was presented with a moment of precise clarity. It had been years since I last played the original EP. Yet, I could instantly hear the difference in the quality and overall power of the newer recording.

The marriage of Guida's colossul drumming and Van Vlack's signature guitar style create a sinister and unforgiving sound. Not to mention the addition of Dan Cav on bass. However, it's not until singer Djinji Brown enters the fray that I have to wonder aloud "I remember liking this band a lot." "How is it possible I didn't love this band?" While Brown's style will easily draw comparisons to a younger, healthier H.R. (Bad Brains). It also allows us a glimpse into, what was then, the not so distant future and Chaka Malik (Burn, Orange 9 mm). To close,
I'll say this,"Though I may have come to this record feeling a bit cheated."
"I left with a nice reward." The future of this band is yet to be determined. One can only hope that we'll see some new music from Absolution in 2013.  James Damion


Lush Life NYC  Order it Here

Boxed Wine - Cheap, Fun EP

It's been a cold, harsh winter here in New Jersey with few signs that it will ever let up. Luckily, there have been minor exceptions to the currently freezing rule of thought.
On January 22, our very own musical hedgehog,
Boxed Wine, released their three song EP titled
"Cheap Fun". Letting us know that better days are almost here. Many a time I've had to remind myself that life is all about the little things. Less is more and sometimes, big things come in small packages. All clique's aside, that is exactly what Boxed Wine have come to mean to me. They are the loose change in my couch. The twenty dollar bill I sometimes find in a coat I haven't worn in years. The pint of mirth you have to special order at your local watering hole.

The band takes a step forward stretching their musical legs a bit with "Cheap Fun".
Adding more texture and atmospheric elements to their sound without ever forgetting what made their first EP so special. See Review Here  "Bones" is an uplifting jaunt with rousing backing vocals and sweet riffs. Chris Mactire's effortless vocal deliveryoften remind me of a cross between that of  Scott Thompson of Meet Pause and Brian Sella of
The Front Bottoms. (A major compliment as far as I'm concerned) "Dayglow" crashes the party with a little more force before revealing itself as a pure party anthem. The quirky and very danceable "Boomerang" sends us home with it's very warm, inviting vibe that had me dancing in my editors chair. Boxed Wine may not change the world but it might just teach it to smile, have fun and dance, dance.
In times like theses, what more could you ask for? Go check it out.
James Damion

Cheap, Fun  Get it Here

Back Off!! them there Casettes!!

If you had a chance to check out my review of Back Off's 2013 Demo Here you'd know how much I enjoyed getting a taste of the bands no holds barred old school sound. Well, if you are like me you appreciate physical copies of music a lot more than an impersonal digital download.
Well, here's a chance to get your hands on the real thing. Copies are very limited so jump that plane as soon as you can and reserve your copy NOW!!! James Damion

Star Beat Records Celebrate a Year of Musical Excellence

This past week I went to my first show of the year in attending Star Beat Music's first anniversary shindig at the Lamp Post in Jersey City. Though I had a shot at a last minute ticket to see Quicksand I wasn't quite in the mood to attend a big and somewhat impersonal show. I'm sure I'll have the chance to see them again when the weather gets warmer. Getting back to my night at the Lamp Post. I had gotten a message from my buddy
Adam Bird of Those Mockingbirds a few weeks earlier, inviting me to a "Secret Show'.
My mind immediately conjured up thoughts of some sexy loft show with suggestive lighting, fancy drinks served in knee high hooker boots and a cast of shady hipsters dressed in their best pimp wear. Upon hearing that it was being held at a tiny bar where the band is pinned between the bathroom and the kitchen door. Any such visions quickly faded. Regardless, the bands were excellent, the crowd responsive and the vodka tasted just as good in a glass as it would in a boot.

Melissa Luciolla

I got there just in time to see Melissa Luciolla open the nights event. Melissa, best known from Melissa and Paul, (One of New Jersey's most deservingly notable acts.) had been doing some solo work as of late and I was eager to listen to what she had to offer. Melissa's soulful, bluesy voice and inspiring guitar work was just what this old man needed to shake the cold off and get the late night off to a roaring start. You can check out Melissa's solo work as well as her Melissa and Paul releases and news here. melissaandpaul

Brooklyn  two piece  Hilly Eye followed and didn't really leave the best impression on me. After just a few songs I headed to the bar for a refill and some conversation with a few friends. Hilly Eye

Those Mockingbirds Adam Bird

Soon after, the nights secret band was revealed as none other than
Those Mockingbirds.
The band just finished recording their new album and performed a set that gave us a nice taste of what's coming. I really like this band a lot. They've got a great rock sound. One that seems to been completely ignored by FM radio for some time.
The band combines excellent hooks and rhythms with notable songwriting and structure.
The bands singer/lead guitarist Adam has excellent charisma and stage presence
(Though the Lamp Post lacks anything remotely close to a stage.) I always look forward to seeing them live. Can't wait to hear the new album.
Band Site

Ralph Icastro of Boxed Wine

Putting the perfect end to an almost perfect night was Boxed Wine. I first heard about them through none other than a above mentioned Adam Bird about a year and a half ago. At the time, I couldn't decide if "Boxed Wine" was the worst band name ever chosen or the absolute best. I'm still kinda on the fence. Ask me any given day and you'll probably get a different answer. Regardless, Boxed Wine are an elixir to be savored and appreciated if not danced to spastically. As much as I loved the bands self titled EP See Review Here, the bands just released "Cheap Fun" EP is a nice step forward.
Prior to the bands set I had the pleasure of meeting the bands guitarist Ralph Icastro.
We had been friends on Facebook for sometime and had been exchanging pleasantries as of late. However, like it is with many of my acquaintances on social networks. I wouldn't know them if I walked past them on the street or if I had to pick them out in a lineup. Getting to put a face to the Facebook picture is always a step in the right direction.

Boxed Wine

As the band set up I was surprised by one thing. In listening to the bands quirky and very danceable rhythmic  beats, I couldn't help but think I'd be watching keyboards, samplers and
Mac Books roll into the bar. While instead I watched in respectful awe as guitar, bass and drums began to fill the space. It was great getting to finally catch Boxed Wine in a live and intimate environment. One simply cannot be mad, sad or surly when listening to what this band has to offer. Pure mirth with nerdy melodies that would have even the grumpiest feet looking to spring into action. It was an extreme pleasure getting to come out and support these guys, no matter how cold it was outside. Congratulations to the bands and to Star Beat Music on their first anniversary; I can't wait to see what year two brings. Check out the new EP here Boxed Wine
See you guys when the weather gets warmer. James Damion

Stuck in a Rut - Nothing in Common EP

I've been on a bit of a Hardcore kick recently and to my surprise, a lot of what I've been listening to has been coming from Europe.

Liverpool's Stuck in the Rut really deliver the goods on their first EP "Nothing in Common". Four songs of straight forward, no frills Hardcore who's influence can be traced to bands like Negative Approach. Each of the four songs have a heavy, relentless sound that struck a chord with me.
At times I felt like I was listening to a distant cousin to NYHC curmudgeons Killing Time. Though the bands isn't exactly reinventing the wheel here. They are certainly doing their part in keeping it greased. James Damion

Bandcamp