Hello friends, another Wednesday is upon us. Isn’t it crazy how these weeks fly? We all need to take a minute and breathe, and perhaps make a playlist of some of our favorite tunes to lash out to. Trust me, it helps! I’ve been seeing tons of bands posting about some awesome shows they are on, including my friends in Toothgrinder going on tour again this February through their record label, Owel opening up for Mae at a sold-out Highline Ballroom, and so many more. Keep up the good work locals, you are all well on your way.
This week, I want to write about a band that has been completely blowing up my newsfeed as of late, and trust me, I am not dodging it! I actually first heard about them from my good friend Nikki Black’s Jersey Rock showcase over at The Wonder Bar in Asbury Park, as they were one of the bands competing for some airplay on The Rat. I saw the lineup and instantly began catching their name pretty much everywhere I visited. You may or may not already be a fan, but after this article, hopefully you get to learn a little bit more about them and have them on your radar! The band I am referring to goes by the name of The Blithedale Romance.
The Blithedale Romance is an independent band from New Jersey that describes their sound as “new noise, groove punk, funk punk, post…punk.” Doesn’t that sound like fun to you? Members include Rob Graham on vocals and guitar, Jason Renna on bass and vocals, Brian Rennwanz on guitar and vocals, and Andy Onorato on drums and vocals. Now, I am still pretty new to their fanbase, so I am going to fill you in on how I perceive their tunes. They somehow combine the styles of destructive and authentic at the same time, in the best way possible. When I first heard them, I somewhat thought of Against Me! However, I am not comparing their sound at all. If you wanted a band that you could maybe relate them to, I think that would be it, but trust me, their sound and style is all their own.
The first track I laid out was “Now That You Know,” and I immediately turned it loud—very loud. This song is way deeper than the surface, for the lyrics hit me immediately. You know you are listening to a good song when you can personally apply each word to a specific situation in your own life, and that doesn’t occur as often as one would hope. “I’m sorry my friend, for sealing my lips, I shouldn’t have kept the lights off, for as long as I did.” This is some pretty powerful stuff, and although I don’t know the complete backstory, that’s a good thing. The track leaves it completely open-minded, allowing you to relate to it in any way you want. Let this be your anthem, allow it to happen.
I then turned the tables and checked out “Struggle,” which again, is extremely powerful. Don’t get it twisted; there is more to this band than lyrics, as the music itself is absolutely fantastic. If you are a punk head, there is no turning back after this band. “Empty out my contents and move them to the next, send me to another place, and let me rest.” These are the kind of lyrics you see music lovers tattoo on their bodies (not trying to give you any ideas) but it’s true. Bravo to whoever in the band writes the tunes; you deserve some honorable mention.
Again, to reflect on what I said before, it isn’t all about the writing for this band, as they are legitimately talented. The lead vocals are totally on point and the drumming (I am a drum lover), is top-notch. Each member brings something equally as respectable to the table. I have yet to see their live set, but if it’s as good as their recorded product, I know I will be back for more. You can catch them all over the area, playing at a venue near you. Also, be sure to catch them at The Boneyard in Atlantic City on Saturday night, Jan. 24, and be sure to pick up their EP, Wanderer, available now as well! You can find out more about The Blithedale Romance on their Facebook page at facebook.com /theblithedaleromance. Over there you can stream music and demand they come to your town; tell them Maria Mar sent you.
I will be back next week with another local band of your liking. In the meantime, keep on recording, making new CDs, playing shows, and getting your names out there. It won’t be long until I stumble upon your material—my eyes are always peeled and my ears are always open!
