Loud music, a lively crowd and lots of drinks made a small rock show at the Blue Room in Secaucus an unforgettable night.
Hosted by local radio personalities Joe and Andy Loesner from the "Night Life Radio" show on 103.1 FM, the event was held on May 14 and it showcased several top area independent bands. Headlining the first annual show were Bayonne rockers 14A, who dazzled the crowd with their loud guitars and drum beats, and singer Kevin Boyle’s excellent voice.
"This is a good show for us and the community," Boyle told the crowd before his performance.
The band took the stage around midnight and rocked loud with songs about sex, drugs and, of course, rock and roll. They tour the area and often play at venues in Hoboken. In the winter of 2002, 14A will release their independent album Karma. Since 1997 they have been performing in North Jersey hotspots, as well as New York City. They are a great live act, with influences from late ’80s and early ’90s pop-rock bands.
In addition to 14A, Jersey City musician Ghetto Folk delighted audience members with his unique melodic style. Folk performed several original songs with a blend of hip-hop beats and acoustic guitar rifts. His recent demo is a wonderful triumph of what it means to be indie rock, and how a world outside mainstream FM radio exists.
"I just try to do what I do. I play my music," Folk said.
Other performers included Bruce Thomas and Mike Kelly.
The Loesner brothers took over the Blue Room for the rock show, which attracted almost 80 people, mostly from Hudson County. The Loesners’ radio show airs Thursday nights and it has earned a high share of the ratings in their time slot. Joe serves as the leader of the group while Andy is more like the jokeman.
"Night Life Radio" is designed to showcase local musicians and provide a haven for the brothers to argue, however comical. The live rock show last week promoted most of the musicians who have appeared on the radio show.
"It’s great to have so many people come here," Joe Loesner said, regarding the event. "I’ve been told by many people who listen to the show that they love how we fight all the time on air."
The Blue Room on 201 Secaucus Rd., next to the club A.J.’s, was a formidable venue for the event. With a large bar in the back, it has a sizable stage for performers and a dozen tables for patrons. Every Thursday night, Roxy Perry hosts "Blues Jam" at 9 p.m., where musicians play blues throughout the night.
The "Night Life Radio" show broadcasts every Thursday from 8 p.m. to 10 p.m. on 103.1 FM. For more information on the Blue Room call (201) 867-4979. q