As the band started setting up on stage, disco music blared throughout the club. I'm not sure if anyone has ever brought this up to the club's management (or if I'm the only person who doesn't appreciate the disco grooves) but please stop with the disco before a rock and roll show! It just doesn't mix. Maybe on a dance night or if a disco reunion show is taking place at Convention Hall (hey, it happened once it could happen again) but not for rock and roll. The only people who seemed to dig it were a couple of drunken bennies that sang along for a song and then took off because this is 2006 instead of '76. Hell, if you lose their business because of the music you know that's saying something.

Why not feature music that is appropriate for the night's show instead. In this case, either rock music that a Commons fan might like or an evening of surf music to get the place revved up for the Beach Boys. How about some Jan & Dean? Maybe instrumentals like "Wipe Out" - you get the idea.

Anyway, I came to check out The Commons who were previewing songs from their upcoming record due out in the fall although you'd never know they were playing from the signs at the Wonder Bar. The Beach Boys Tribute got the only billing on the outside marques and even got 2 lines on the inside marque! It read: "Beach Boys Tribute" on one line and "featuring BBCB" on the next line. Oh well? as least they have German beer on tap!

The Commons opened with "China", a great song from "Come On, Get Gone" that starts off slow but really builds up. Even though I think they need to start off with more of a pure rocker, the song did grab the attention of many people around the bar. Up near the stage, the sound was terrific and a group of Commons fans were paying close attention to each word.

The band ran through several songs that should be on their next record including "Big, Big World", "What I've Learned", "Fast Food Parking Lot", "The Greenhorn", "John Somebody", "My Sexy Thing", and "Kate & Joe".

Highlights for me included "My Sexy Thing" - a wonderfully slow, bluesy number that features lead singer Keith Monacchio's vocals in fine form; and "Kate & Joe", the song that just might be the band's break out hit.

Following the Commons was the BBCB. There aren't too many bands that tackle Beach Boys songs and for good reason - if the vocals aren't on the songs will sound horrible. Well, these guys had great harmonies and not bad leads. I think the leads could be a little stronger, but when the entire band was harmonizing it was very, very good. The band rolled through many of the Beach Boy's greatest hits but also threw in some cult classics and rarities. It was an interesting set. I'm not one for many cover bands, but this was a pretty cool idea for a summer night and they did the songs justice.

 

EVENT PREVIEWS

Renaissance Quartet Brings Bold Innovation and Classical Mastery to McCarter Theatre on Thursday

(PRINCETON, NJ) -- Prepare to be captivated by the Renaissance Quartet, featuring violinists Randall Goosby and Jeremiah Blacklow, violist Jameel Martin, and cellist Daniel Hass. Graduates of the Juilliard School and mentored by the legendary Itzhak Perlman, the Quartet brings a unique blend of classical mastery and innovative flair to McCarter Theatre on Thursday, November 21, 2024 at 7:30pm. Known for reimagining chamber music traditions, this New York based ensemble combines technical excellence with a bold, forward-thinking approach that appeals to a diverse audience.

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State Theatre New Jersey presents Trombone Shorty & Orleans Avenue with support from New Breed Brass Band