ASBURY PARK VIBES PODCAST

We had a chance to catch up with Mike Noordzy from Mothguts and Cody McCorry from We Used to Cut the Grass to talk about this upcoming show.  The two of them collaborated on two sound pieces that set the tone for our discussion.  While what they performed is not what they will be playing at the show, Mike and Cody are two truly inspired and creative people who represent the best of Asbury Park!Mothguts 20th Anniversary Show & We Used to Cut the Grassplus Mono Means Onehttps://apboardwalk.com/news/events/mothguts-we-used-to-cut-the-grass/MOTHGUTSMothguts is a New Jersey–based instrumental quartet known for smashing together the worlds of death metal, free jazz, grunge, grindcore, noise, and sludge into a relentless sonic assault. Founded in 2005, the band has carved out a reputation for fearless experimentation, chaotic energy, and a sound that refuses to be contained by genre.The lineup features Mike Noordzy on bass, Ben Ross on drums, Anthony Ware on alto saxophone, and Chris Welcome on guitar. Together, they’ve cultivated a brutal yet boundary-defying aesthetic, marked by blistering improvisation and crushing heaviness.Now celebrating their 20th anniversary, Mothguts remains a singular force in the underground, revered for their uncompromising creativity and blistering live shows. Two decades in, the band continues to blur boundaries and challenge listeners with music that is as punishing as it is visionary.WE USED TO CUT THE GRASSWe Used to Cut the Grass is a shapeshifting experimental ensemble led by composer/bassist Cody McCorry, most frequently appearing as a 10-piece band known for heavy brass and two tightly synchronized drum kits. Heavily inspired by the likes of Frank Zappa, John Zorn and Sun Ra, the band has roots in the blurred zone between progressive rock and jazz fusion, but has since stretched further into post-rock and experimental endeavors, reaching from orchestral/chamber works to absurdist sound collage. The group’s sophomore album, “We Used to Cut the Grass #2,” is the follow up to their similarly self-titled album released in 2022. It has been described by math rock periodical Fecking Bahamas as “a much needed joyride.” On the album and its composer, Prog Critique has this to say: “I don’t know if he’s a genius or a brilliant madman… [the album] surprises, it disorients, as much as it captivates… have we ever seen a band cover such a rich palette?”MONO MEANS ONEMono Means One is a psychedelic prog trio and the brainchild of bassist and composer John Ferrara, best known as the bass player and co-founder of the acclaimed world fusion band “Consider the Source.” Mono Means One’s sound contains melancholic melodies, rich sonic textures with Drum ‘N’ Bass grooves and Mathrock sensibilities. Half composed and half improvised, the music is often dark, with moments of calm serenity and other times heavy, oscillating between chill grooves to almost unbearable intensity. Originally composed entirely on the bass guitar, John paired up with Rob Madore (Drums) and Isaac Young (Keys) to add intensely nuanced beats with futuristic colorful sonic textures. All three members produce a sound that is powerful and unique all to their own.Ferrara has been dubbed the “Unsung Genius” of bass tapping by bass sensation Charles Berthoud, is a teacher at Scotts Bass Lessons, and has been featured in Bass Magazine, NoTreble, Bass Musician magazine among many other publications.Doors 7:00 PMShow 8:00 PM21+ admitted Asbury Park Vibes Podcast Available on Spotify, Apple, Google, iHeart, Audible, and PandoraHosted by Diane DiMemmo & Doug DresherCopyright 2020-2025 Asbury Park Vibes. All rights reserved.

Lightning in a Bottle – A Love Letter to Asbury Lanes is a raw, intimate, and unfiltered photographic chronicle of one of New Jersey’s most beloved underground venues. Shot over 11 years by photographer Mike McLaughlin, the book captures the heart and soul of Asbury Lanes, in the heart of Asbury Park—a vintage bowling alley turned DIY music venue—before its redevelopment in 2015.We had the opportunity to talk long-distance with Mike McLaughlin, a fantastic photographer with a catalog of images documenting "The Old" Asbury Lanes.  Home to the party faithful and wayward souls, Asbury Lanes was, for a time, the coolest place to both play and spectate.  Asbury Park's version of Max's Kansas City and CBGBs, The Lanes was a safe place for those who needed safe spaces to dance, sing, and create.  Mike talked about his start in photography and his time at Asbury Lanes.  And like everything else in life, he talked about when it was time to move on, and somehow land in Italy. Asbury Park Vibes Podcast Available on Spotify, Apple, Google, iHeart, Audible, and PandoraHosted by Diane DiMemmo & Doug DresherCopyright 2020-2025 Asbury Park Vibes. All rights reserved.

Erik Mason and his band brought “coastal soft rock” to life in this episode—cinematic indie with ‘70s roots and a hint of pink-sky Americana. We dug into the stories behind his songwriting, from the timeless influence of Jackson Browne, Billy Joel, and Neil Young to the way Jersey Shore places and people have shaped his band’s music.With his latest EP Butterfly Effects, Erik explores how small choices and fleeting moments can set entire stories in motion. It follows his 2021 album The Tide—together showing a songwriter who’s both reflective and refreshingly grounded in authenticity.One of the highlights was an incredible in-studio acoustic session—warm harmonies, tasteful piano, and reimagined, stripped-down versions that let the lyrics breathe. Tune in to this engaging episode to catch the acoustic performance and learn all about the Erik Mason Band. Asbury Park Vibes Podcast Available on Spotify, Apple, Google, iHeart, Audible, and PandoraHosted by Diane DiMemmo & Doug DresherCopyright 2020-2025 Asbury Park Vibes. All rights reserved.

Our conversation with Monte Maybe flowed like one of her songs — intimate, energetic, and full of heart. Monte’s storytelling blends pop, folk, and country influences, grounded in her New Jersey roots, and you can hear it all over her 2025 debut album Jersey Devil — a record that stakes her claim in the NJ soundscape.We dove deep into how she crafts songs from real-life experiences, how the New Jersey music scene shaped her voice, and how her live performances bring an intensity and connection that go beyond just singing on stage. Between reflections on Jersey Devil, the craft of songwriting, and the raw energy she brings at shows and her acoustic at our studio, this episode gives listeners a full portrait of Monte ... songwriter, performer, and rising star! Asbury Park Vibes Podcast Available on Spotify, Apple, Google, iHeart, Audible, and PandoraHosted by Diane DiMemmo & Doug DresherCopyright 2020-2025 Asbury Park Vibes. All rights reserved.

Our conversation with Connor Bracken, frontman and guitarist of Connor Bracken and the Mother Leeds Band, was as electric as one of his live shows. We dug into the nuts and bolts of the music industry—what it really takes for a band to not just survive, but grow and thrive.Connor spoke about his bandmates—drummer Rich Seyffart, guitarist Dee DiMeola, and bassist TJ Haefner—and how their shared dedication fuels everything they do. Their most recent EP, Don’t You Dare, captures the band’s raw sound and commitment to honest, hard-hitting rock. Connor’s songwriting process is rooted in feel and authenticity, focusing on what moves him in the moment rather than following formulas or trends.Many of their albums are also released as live recordings, a reflection of how powerfully their energy translates from stage to record. With a collective drive that’s all-in and a work ethic forged on the Jersey Shore and beyond, this episode captures what it means to achieve success the honest way: through grit, teamwork, and an unshakable love for rock ’n’ roll. Asbury Park Vibes Podcast Available on Spotify, Apple, Google, iHeart, Audible, and PandoraHosted by Diane DiMemmo & Doug DresherCopyright 2020-2025 Asbury Park Vibes. All rights reserved.

Jon Caspi and the First Gun have been gracing the Asbury Park (and local area) with their homegrown rock and roll.  The band, made of the nicest fellows, came into the Asbury Park Vibes studio for an intimate three-song set.  They also stuck around to chat about their new EP, AIRPORT PLAZA.Caspi has been a longstanding figure in the NJ indie, singer/songwriter, alternative, and punk scenes. In the late 80s, he fronted the new wave band Bouncing Off Bob, which charted on the national college radio CMJ Top 100. He started as a solo artist in the early 2000s with the release of three albums, which received national radio play, and one was converted into a musical theater production with sold-out shows. His song This Town, about the town of Keyport, NJ, became a town “hit,” resulting in the local diner naming a sandwich after him, called “The Caspi Special.”A compelling live artist and storyteller, Caspi, performs both with band and solo acoustic  and has shared the stage with acts such as Bruce Springsteen, The Psychedelic Furs, The Gaslight Anthem, Glenn Tillbrook (Squeeze), The Smithereens, ~X~, Dramarama, Willie Nile, Jeffrey Gaines, Jesse Malin, The Dickies, Adolescents, The Wallflowers, The Alarm, & many more.Please join Jon Caspi (vocals), Doug Lane (bass), Jimmie Mizell (drums), Pete Jager (guitar), and Bob Bailey-Lemansky (keys) as they talk about their new music and what it is like to be a band of such close friends.JCatFG FacebookJCatFG Insta Asbury Park Vibes Podcast Available on Spotify, Apple, Google, iHeart, Audible, and PandoraHosted by Diane DiMemmo & Doug DresherCopyright 2020-2025 Asbury Park Vibes. All rights reserved.

We were already looking forward to our sit-down with The Band Palm, but the episode turned out to be so much more than we imagined. Their stripped-down acoustic performance was absolutely brilliant, setting the stage for a conversation that was equal parts engrossing, funny, and deeply introspective.From stories about cool great-grandmothers, grandmothers and parents ... to the many interpretations of their band name, to the raw honesty of their lyricism and the undeniable synergy between members, every moment felt fresh and genuine. The chemistry in the room made it one of those interviews where you wish the mics could stay on for hours longer.If you love music that sparks conversation as much as it entertains with beautiful melodies and catchy choruses, then this episode with The Band Palm is one you won’t want to miss. Asbury Park Vibes Podcast Available on Spotify, Apple, Google, iHeart, Audible, and PandoraHosted by Diane DiMemmo & Doug DresherCopyright 2020-2025 Asbury Park Vibes. All rights reserved.

Burn in Tweed (Ronny Day - Guitar/Vox, Shane Dillon - Drums, Rebeca "Bexx" Qualls - Bass/B-Vox) is a new band with a very familiar face up front.  The band, heavy with purpose, is locked in Ronny's introspective and narrative lyrics.  Ronny Day is an old-school throwback from the punk heyday of Long Branch and The Brighton Bar.  Most would know Ronny from starting the moshpit.  Now he has finally taken his place on the stage - and although you won't find me in the mosh pit (any more), I'm right there in spirit!Here, Ronny talks about the band, how it came to be, and where he feels it could go.  Additionally, we get a little peek into Ronny's stories of his many treks across North America. Burn In Tweed Insta Asbury Park Vibes Podcast Available on Spotify, Apple, Google, iHeart, Audible, and PandoraHosted by Diane DiMemmo & Doug DresherCopyright 2020-2025 Asbury Park Vibes. All rights reserved.

In this episode, we sat down with Joe Brown—founder of Melting Trends—along with musicians Rachel Ana Dobken, Damion & Paul from Tango Machina, and Gia from The Azures. The conversation centered on the upcoming Bond Street Block Party, happening Saturday, September 6 from 1–10 PM outside Bond Street Bar in Asbury Park. This free community festival has become a staple of the local scene, drawing large crowds of music lovers every year. The eclectic lineup for this year’s event was handpicked by Brown, whose deep roots in the Asbury music community and years of experience curating shows through Melting Trends make him uniquely qualified to craft a bill that captures the city’s energy and diversity.  The incredible lineup includes Ron Gallo, Sunshine Spazz, Ov Love, Desert Sharks, Rachel Ana Dobken, Tango Machina, Neon Rayon, The Azures, Beauty, Drkhrt, and Hot Wax Between Sets!Together, we explored the heartbeat of the Asbury Park music scene and the importance of small venues like Bond Street Bar, which provide vital spaces for up-and-coming bands to find their voice and grow their audience. Grassroots venues and community-driven events like the Block Party are what keep Asbury’s creative spirit alive while opening doors for the next generation of artists. Don’t miss the Bond Street Block Party on Saturday, Sept. 6 from 1–10 PM in downtown Asbury Park—a free show for the community.  Asbury Park Vibes Podcast Available on Spotify, Apple, Google, iHeart, Audible, and PandoraHosted by Diane DiMemmo & Doug DresherCopyright 2020-2025 Asbury Park Vibes. All rights reserved.

In this episode of the Asbury Park Vibes Podcast, I sat down with Billy Walton, a Jersey Shore staple whose guitar work and high-energy performances have taken him from Asbury Park clubs to international stages. Billy will be hitting the Hard Rock’s Sound Waves in Atlantic City on September 5th as part of North to Shore’s "Garden State Live" series — a showcase dedicated to original New Jersey talent.We talked about everything from the unique “Jersey sound” and the evolution of the local music scene to Billy’s early days with Southside Johnny & the Asbury Jukes, and how the Billy Walton Band has grown into a soulful, blues-driven powerhouse. Billy also shared why live energy is so essential to his music, the fine line between originals and covers, and gave us a sneak peek at his upcoming album with Anthony Krizan, including the single “Knife in My Back.”Whether you’re a longtime fan of Jersey Shore music or just discovering it, this conversation captures the grit, energy, and heart that make New Jersey musicians truly stand out. Tickets for Garden State Live can be found here. Asbury Park Vibes Podcast Available on Spotify, Apple, Google, iHeart, Audible, and PandoraHosted by Diane DiMemmo & Doug DresherCopyright 2020-2025 Asbury Park Vibes. All rights reserved.

We  recently had the pleasure of chatting with Will Blakey, Tom Briant (and Will's son Allen) of Never The Name—a genre-blending band mixing funk, indie, emo, hip-hop, and rock into a sound that’s completely their own. Since coming together in 2024 with fellow bandmates Lisa LoVell and Joshua Van Ness, they’ve released their debut album Millennial Boomer Consumer and three standout music videos, including the VR-fueled Dirty, the fierce workplace rebellion of Quasimodo’s Love Note, and the emotionally charged Consequences. We dug into their music, their creative process, the origin of their name, and the stories behind those videos. Tune in to hear them play live in the Asbury Park Vibes Studio! Asbury Park Vibes Podcast Available on Spotify, Apple, Google, iHeart, Audible, and PandoraHosted by Diane DiMemmo & Doug DresherCopyright 2020-2025 Asbury Park Vibes. All rights reserved.

In this episode, we sit down with Jersey Shore singer-songwriter Francesca Fuentes (aka Chess) to talk about her journey from writing songs at age 12 to crafting her heartfelt, pop-rock inspired tracks today. Francesca shares the moments that shaped her music, the stories behind some of her most meaningful songs, her 2025 EP Can't Hide, and how her creative path has evolved along the way. As a special treat, she brought her guitar to the studio and performed two songs acoustically—raw, intimate versions you won’t hear anywhere else. Asbury Park Vibes Podcast Available on Spotify, Apple, Google, iHeart, Audible, and PandoraHosted by Diane DiMemmo & Doug DresherCopyright 2020-2025 Asbury Park Vibes. All rights reserved.

In this episode, we sit down with Max Satow, the artist behind NOSHOWS, to explore the genre-blending sound and deeper mission behind his music. Fusing elements of alt-rock, hip-hop, and electronic textures, Max creates music that’s as emotionally raw as it is sonically dynamic. His upcoming EP, The Fear, dives into personal experiences and modern anxieties, drawing from his own lifestyle shifts and the uncertainties of his generation.We talk about the origins of his artist name, the power of live performance, and how building a music career in the NYC scene takes equal parts hustle, connection, and vulnerability. Max opens up about his advocacy work through “Magnify the Mind,” a mental health-focused community he founded to support those navigating anxiety, and how that mission feeds directly into his songwriting. And of course, we had to laugh about the biggest truth in music: after all the effort, promotion, and networking, it still comes down to one simple rule—make sure the music doesn’t suck.Listen now to hear how Max is transforming fear, reflection, and real-life grit into a sound that connects. Asbury Park Vibes Podcast Available on Spotify, Apple, Google, iHeart, Audible, and PandoraHosted by Diane DiMemmo & Doug DresherCopyright 2020-2025 Asbury Park Vibes. All rights reserved.

Separatr is an indie pop duo originally from Bellingham, WA. In 2022, married couple Stephanie Melvin and Joe Douglas sold most of their belongings, got in a van, and headed for the East Coast. Now calling the Asbury Park music scene home, the pair has been steadily touring the Northeast in their camper van, building their fanbase one show at a time.In this episode, we talk about the band's unique journey, their commitment to creating meaningful connections through live shows, and their belief that face-to-face interaction is the most powerful way to turn listeners into lifelong fans. Stephanie and Joe also share their take on the importance of consistent touring—not just as a career move, but as a way to stay inspired, grow as artists, and stay connected to the heart of their music.Tune in to hear how Separatr is carving out a path fueled by passion, partnership, and the open road. Asbury Park Vibes Podcast Available on Spotify, Apple, Google, iHeart, Audible, and PandoraHosted by Diane DiMemmo & Doug DresherCopyright 2020-2025 Asbury Park Vibes. All rights reserved.

On this episode of the Asbury Park Vibes Podcast, we caught up with Jordan Chez to talk about his evolution from Thelonious Funk to his solo project, where he’s been releasing fresh tracks that blend soul, pop, and introspective storytelling. Jordan opened up about his musical influences, what he’s learned from both the Asbury Park and Nashville music scenes, and how he's been leaning into the art of “crowd work” to create more connected and engaging live shows. His debut solo EP is set to drop on August 10, and from what we’ve heard so far ("Plans For Autumn," "All Your Love," and "Tell Me Why", it’s one to listen through completely! Asbury Park Vibes Podcast Available on Spotify, Apple, Google, iHeart, Audible, and PandoraHosted by Diane DiMemmo & Doug DresherCopyright 2020-2025 Asbury Park Vibes. All rights reserved.

On the latest APV podcast, we sat down with the Phokupps—an exciting, unique cover band with a name that’s as playful as their sound (yes, it’s a nod to pho noodles). Known for taking songs you know and flipping them on their head, the Phokupps blend their wide-ranging musical tastes into reimagined versions of classics and current hits, often making them more danceable or giving them a whole new vibe. We talked about how the band formed, what inspires their unique spin on covers, and their exciting leap into original music. They even treated us to a stripped-down acoustic performance of their heartfelt new track, “Can I Have This Dance.” Tune in to meet the Phokupps! Asbury Park Vibes Podcast Available on Spotify, Apple, Google, iHeart, Audible, and PandoraHosted by Diane DiMemmo & Doug DresherCopyright 2020-2025 Asbury Park Vibes. All rights reserved.

Ryan Gregg - you've heard him, you've seen him, and you would recognize him as being one of the most sought-after piano/keyboard players. In our latest episode, Doug gets to chat with Ryan in depth about his musical proclivity at a young age, how he operates and grows as a musician now, and the various musicians and groups he collaborates with.The Ryan Gregg Trio is making its debut at the North to Shore Festival.  Friday, June 20 @ 7 PM. Asbury Lanes, 209 4th Ave, Asbury Park, NJ 07712The Ryan Gregg Trio is supporting Emerson Woolf & The Wishbones with special guests James Dalton.Be sure to arrive early and don't miss this incredibly talented group of musicians.Click here North to ShoreClick here Ryan Gregg Asbury Park Vibes Podcast Available on Spotify, Apple, Google, iHeart, Audible, and PandoraHosted by Diane DiMemmo & Doug DresherCopyright 2020-2025 Asbury Park Vibes. All rights reserved.

In this episode, we caught up with the dt’s — David Cacciatore and Tom Losito — as they gear up for their sold-out North to Shore Festival performance at Wonder Bar on June 22 with Penelope Road and the Mike Montrey Band. The North to Shore Festival is a unique celebration of New Jersey’s arts and culture, giving local artists like The DTs the opportunity to share the stage and gain exposure alongside nationally recognized acts. It’s an exciting platform for emerging talent across the state.We explored the band’s journey since forming in 2020, their signature blend of genres, and how they maintain a dynamic live show with a rotating cast of musicians. We also discussed the vibrant diversity of New Jersey’s music scene and the importance of balancing individuality with regional influences.the dt’s shared behind-the-scenes stories — from past gigs (including a funny run-in with Jane Seymour) to their evolving plans for live recordings and acoustic sessions. Along the way, the conversation touched on everything from North to Shore Festival planning to family traditions, guitar repair, and the joy of performing live. With plenty of humor and heart, the dt’s gave us a glimpse into their creative process, stage chemistry, and the community that continues to support them as they grow. Asbury Park Vibes Podcast Available on Spotify, Apple, Google, iHeart, Audible, and PandoraHosted by Diane DiMemmo & Doug DresherCopyright 2020-2025 Asbury Park Vibes. All rights reserved.

In this episode, we sat down with an artist who truly lives and breathes creativity — Patty C. Whether fronting Patty C & The Pints or collaborating with En Delirium, Cranston Dean Band, and Daly Rituals, Patty brings a genre-bending sound full of joy, soul, and storytelling.We talked about his latest EP Happy Camper — a vibrant collection that reminds us how music can uplift, connect, and spark curiosity. Patty’s positivity and happiness are contagious, and through the stories behind his songs and the inspirations that fuel his work, you’ll hear just how much heart he pours into every project. Enjoy his stellar acoustic performance as part of our podcast as well!Listen to Happy Camper! Asbury Park Vibes Podcast Available on Spotify, Apple, Google, iHeart, Audible, and PandoraHosted by Diane DiMemmo & Doug DresherCopyright 2020-2025 Asbury Park Vibes. All rights reserved.

Three-time Grammy nominee Brady Rymer joins us to celebrate 25 years of making music with his band, Brady Rymer and the Little Band That Could. In this joyful and heartfelt episode, we talk about his journey from the band From Good Homes to writing family-focused songs that connect generations. Brady shares stories behind his new album Sunny Side Up, his creative process, and how a misheard name—“Baby Rhino”—sparked inspiration for a future release. Tune in for insights on music, parenting, and the power of songs to build empathy and community. Asbury Park Vibes Podcast Available on Spotify, Apple, Google, iHeart, Audible, and PandoraHosted by Diane DiMemmo & Doug DresherCopyright 2020-2025 Asbury Park Vibes. All rights reserved.