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Review of Whatever Planet by the Dipsomaniacs

By Gary Wien

originally published: 09/05/2005


The Dipsomaniacs' followup to their brilliant Freakin' Eureka CD is called Whatever Planet. It's another strong effort from the band and there are plenty of songs which radio stations should be playing.

The Dipsos continue to make songs in the late 80s / early 90s "alternative music" vein... back when alternative actually meant something. We're talking hints of Elvis Costello, The Replacements, The Smithereens, Ben Folds, and the Beatles. And like I always say, good influences usually bring about good music. In this case, the theory holds true again.

Upstage Radio is currently playing a bunch of these tracks in heavy rotation. Our favorites from the record include "Syd Barrett," "Thank You," "Quitters", "Like An Aeroplane", "Daddy's On a Book Tour", and "The Hoodie Song."

The disc also contains a second disc of rarities called "Down The Drain" that includes a few incredible gems like "Hello Cleveland" which is the song we're playing the most. Take a look at "I Need A Beer" and "White Trash Girl" as well. You'll be glad you did...




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About the author:

Gary Wien has been covering the arts since 2001 and has had work published with Jersey Arts, Upstage Magazine, Elmore Magazine, Princeton Magazine, Backstreets and other publications. He is a three-time winner of the Asbury Music Award for Top Music Journalist and the author of Beyond the Palace (the first book on the history of rock and roll in Asbury Park) and Are You Listening? The Top 100 Albums of 2001-2010 by New Jersey Artists. In addition, he runs New Jersey Stage and the online radio station The Penguin Rocks. His personal website is at lightyscorner.com. He can be contacted at [email protected].


EVENT PREVIEWS

(MILLVILLE, NJ) -- The Levoy Theatre presents Paul Thorn on Thursday, June 18, 2026 at 7:30pm. When it comes to songwriting, less is more, and simplicity is strength. Just ask Paul Thorn, who’s spent three decades turning soulful grooves and small syllables into songs that pack a big wallop.

Erin Harpe & Countryman Jim Bring Award-Nominated Country Blues to Lizzie Rose Music Room on June 18th

(TUCKERTON, NJ) -- Award-nominated country blues duo Erin Harpe & Countryman Jim will bring their captivating blend of traditional country blues, folk, and Americana to the Lizzie Rose Music Room on Thursday, June 18, 2026 at 7:30pm.
The Black Crowes and Whiskey Myers to Perform at Prudential Center

The Black Crowes and Whiskey Myers to Perform at Prudential Center

(NEWARK, NJ) -- Genre-defying rock legends The Black Crowes bring their massive co-headlining Southern Hospitality Tour with modern rock's boundary-pushing powerhouse Whiskey Myers to Prudential Center in Newark on Saturday, June 20, 2026 at 8:00pm.

Carteret PAC presents Los Lobos and Los Lonely Boys on June 20th

(CARTERET, NJ) -- Los Lobos and Los Lonely Boys bring The Brotherhood Tour to Carteret Performing Arts & Events Center on Saturday, June 20, 2026 at 8:00pm. Tickets range from $58-$108.
The North Jersey Blues Society presents "Blues & Brews" featuring BBD Rhythm & Blues Band on June 21st

The North Jersey Blues Society presents "Blues & Brews" featuring BBD Rhythm & Blues Band on June 21st

(MONTCLAIR, NJ) -- The North Jersey Blues Society presents "Blues & Brews" featuring BBD Rhythm & Blues Band at the Montclair Brewery on Sunday, June 21, 2026. The event runs from 5:30pm to 7:30pm.

Going Acoustic at Quig's to Mark 4 Years with Featured Sets from Emily Drinker and Gina LC on June 22nd

(PHILADELPHIA, PA) -- Four years in, Going Acoustic at Quig's is still doing what it does best: creating a welcoming space where artists feel comfortable to take risks, and audiences are lucky enough to hear it unfold. On Monday, June 22, 2026 the beloved open mic series returns to Quig's Pub for its 4th Anniversary Show, with featured performances from Emily Drinker and Gina LC, alongside the series' signature blend of emerging voices and open mic performers.
Cape May Point Arts and Science Center presents Grammy-Nominated Blues artist Guy Davis on June 24th

Cape May Point Arts and Science Center presents Grammy-Nominated Blues artist Guy Davis on June 24th

(CAPE MAY POINT, NJ) -- On Wednesday, June 24, 2026, musician, storyteller and two-time Grammy Nominee for Best Traditional Blues, Guy Davis, will perform at The Cape May Point Arts and Science Center.
American Theater Group and Union Arts Center present Katerina McCrimmon: Naked Concert on June 26th

American Theater Group and Union Arts Center present Katerina McCrimmon: Naked Concert on June 26th

(UNION, NJ) -- American Theater Group (ATG), in partnership with the Union Arts Center, will present Katerina McCrimmon's acclaimed solo concert, Naked, which has played to sold-out audiences across the country, including at Joe's Pub and Lincoln Center. Directed by Henry Gainza, it will come to the DMK Black Box Theater at the Union Arts Center for one performance only, on Fri.day, June 26, 2026 at 7:00pm.
MPAC presents Straight No Chaser on June 26th

MPAC presents Straight No Chaser on June 26th

(MORRISTOWN, NJ) -- A cappella favorite Straight No Chaser brings its summer-themed Beach Bash to Mayo Performing Arts Center (MPAC) on Friday, June 26, 2026 at 8:00pm. Tickets range from $57-$114 (All fees included).
The The Band Band presents The Last Walz Celebration 50th Anniversary 2026 Tour at The Newton Theatre

The The Band Band presents The Last Walz Celebration 50th Anniversary 2026 Tour at The Newton Theatre

(NEWTON, NJ) -- The The Band Band presents The Last Walz Celebration 50th Anniversary 2026 Tour at The Newton Theatre on Saturday, June 27, 2026. Doors are at 7:00pm; showtime is 8:00pm.

 

FEATURED EVENTS


Ben Folds in Concert with New Jersey Symphony

Sunday, June 14, 2026 @ 2:00pm
State Theatre New Jersey
New Brunswick, NJ


Chicago

Sunday, June 14, 2026 @ 7:30pm
Mayo Performing Arts Center (MPAC)
Morristown, NJ


Free Summer Event: Bollywood Dance Party with DJ Arjun

Tuesday, June 16, 2026 @ 6:00pm
Mayo Performing Arts Center (MPAC) - Pioneer Park at Headquarters Plaza
Morristown, NJ


"The Antoinette Montague Experience: Here's to the Ladies Who Swing and Bling" as part of North to Shore

Wednesday, June 17, 2026 @ 6:00pm
Newark Culture Club
Newark, NJ


Back to the Eighties Show with Jessie’s Girl

Thursday, June 18, 2026 @ 7:30pm
Mayo Performing Arts Center (MPAC)
Morristown, NJ



 

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