Blondsense: Benefit for Adopt-A-Soldier Platoon
The Stone Pony
January 22, 2011
ASBURY PARK, NJ—Teaming up with several organizations for a Jan. 22 show at The Stone Pony in Asbury Park, NJ, Blondsense joins the ranks of New Jersey entertainers stepping into the arena of U.S. troop support. Along with organizations such as Adopt-A-Soldier Platoon, NJ Elks Army of Hope, Operation Jersey Cares, Lt. Dennis W. Zilinski II Foundation and American Recreational Military Services (A.R.M.S) Blondsense is working in an effort to raise awareness, money and care packages for our troops fighting on for our country overseas.
The Adopt A Soldier Platoon was formed back in 2003 after a minor car accident involving a mother who had more on her mind than her driving (her son was leaving for Iraq) and the organization hasn’t looked back since. Helping with care packages and contact from people who care here in the U.S. has made all the difference.
The NJ Elks Army Of Hope also steps forward to assist families who have had a father or mother called to active duty with the military reserve or National Guard. An Army of Hope, comprised of carpenters, electricians, mechanics, plumbers, attorneys, doctors, accountants, teachers, professionals and tradesmen of every type has been mobilized by the Order of Elks.
Another group that will be participating is Operation Jersey Cares. A group composed of Veterans and other proud Americans. This group dedicated volunteers who give freely of our time and talents to ensure that our combat veterans are getting the support they need for the sacrifices they are making.
Operation Jersey Cares send packages to our men and women to let them know that America is behind their efforts. Other groups involved are Lt. Dennis W. Zilinski II Foundation, and American Recreational Military Services (A.R.M.S) and the concentrated goal of everyone is to let our troops know that we all care.
All band proceeds from Blondsense downloads, the purchase of Blondsense CD’s, and tickets for the upcoming show at the legendary Stone Pony on Jan. 22 will be donated to the brave men and women that selflessly serve our nation and protect our freedom with their very lives. To me, it’s a great cause for a great group of people. Special guests throughout the night will include Lisa Bouchelle, Christine Martucci, Cookiehead, and the very traditional performance of Shamrock & Thistle Pipe & Drum.
While donations are accepted at any time, these organizations really need you to come to the show for support. Shows like this rely on door draws and immediate numbers to continue operating. Any assistance towards that goal would be greatly appreciated. For further information please contact Blondsense directly at: blondsense1@hotmail.com and check out the Website at: blondsensebenefitforadoptasoldierplatoon.com.
Mike Montrey Does It In Public
@ Retromedia Recording Studios, Red Bank, NJ
January 29, 2011
Okay, calm down. By doing it in public I mean recording his brand new album, Weaving The Basket, which is a nod to Henry David Thoreau’s inspirational piece, Walden. The event will take place at Retromedia Studios in Red Bank, NJ. This will be the first studio album for the band since 2008’s A Perfect Reality, which featured current MMB members Rob Smith (drums), Karl Dietel (keyboards) and Adam Garnys (alto saxophone), and was nominated as album of the year by the AMA’s. Joining them will be current members Anthony “Duke” Duca on bass guitar and Hayden Wright on tenor saxophone, as well as some other special guests.
Mike and the band have had much increased visibility within our area in the last couple of years, being part of many Stone Pony and Wonderbar events as well as a common performer over at the Saint on Main Street. His recent Asbury Park Music Award nominations are proof positive that this westerner is drawing more music fans from around the central Jersey area than ever before.
Montrey got his start at the beginning of 2001 with the band Water. He moved on from that group as a touring member of the Samples in 2007, a band that gave him the opportunity to perform on the same stage as Dave Matthews Band, Sting, Phish and other heavy hitters. Montrey says he still continues to perform with the Samples at such venues as House of Blues (Dallas and Atlantic City), Tipitina’s (New Orléans), Red Rocks Amphitheater (Morrison, CO) and The Highline Ballroom (NYC).
A Perfect Reality opened many new ears and afforded new media opportunities such as hitting number 29 on the Jambands.com radio charts. The single “Take Me Down Mississippi” was also featured as a Garageband.com track of the week. This latest method of release may not be entirely new in the industry, but it is a real and exciting way of getting the musical job done while retaining a bona fide live house vibe. I’m really surprised more people haven’t thought of combining the aspects of recording and audience—it just makes so much sense.
Mike Montrey is a pushing ahead in 2011 with a new plan and a new disc that’s sure to take him to higher plateaus. Admission is $20 and the event is all ages. Seating will be limited, and there will be two set times to choose from. For further information on the event, head over to the band’s website mikemontrey.com. Also, for directions and such, check out the Retromedia gang at retromedia.net.
The Downtown Goes Mad
Every Wednesday at 9 p.m.
The Downtown has been around for years and is one of those places that have survived economic and cultural change while maintaining some semblance of who they were and what they are. I’m glad because when I lived in town, that was my watering hole of choice and many are still heading over for some quality “after work” time. The upstairs portion of the club has always brought some interesting offerings to the table and their new event, “Music, Art & Drafts” which happens every Wednesday evening at 8 p.m., is no surprise to my jaded eye either. If you’re looking for a night featuring some of the best local and touring musical acts from the Tri-State area you’ve come to the right place.
Domestic drafts for 3$ and other great drink specials all night are an encouraging aspect of attendance as well. As if that wasn’t reason enough to show up, the evening also brings 90.5 The Night’s Jeff Raspe, spinning the room before, between and after the great bands. This week, Jan. 19 features Weathered Sol and unannounced special guest. Next Wednesday, Jan. 26 the Downtown brings you Flights Kool, along with Pasadena and Michele Karmin, who will take the Downtown stage in some fashion of that order. Also, there will be a very special show on the following Wednesday, Feb. 2, featuring Lorenza Ponce, who has played with Ben Folds, Jon Bon Jovi, Sheryl Crow, John Tesh and Glen Burtnik and promises to bring some interesting musical craft to the stage.
Doors are at 8 p.m. Showtime is always at 9 p.m. For more info head over to the Downtown website at thedowntownnj.com.
