words and photos by bill bodkin
The spirit of Christmas was alive and well at The Wonder Bar in Asbury Park, N.J. It was Pop-Break’s finale “Shipwrecked at the Shore” Music Showcase of 2012 (we’re returning for a new series in 2013) and the vibe was awesome. People were in the mood for good music and were showing nothing but love to the crowd and their fellow performers. As the producer of the show, it’s easy to say this was one of the most enjoyable shows we’ve put on in the past year.
We’d like to thank Debbie DeLisa from The Wonder Bar, Angie & Chris from The Asbury Park Boardwalk and everyone who’s come out to enjoy these shows that we’ve put on this year.
Modern Chemistry
Modern Chemistry is the band fronted by Pop-Break’s very own Joe Zorzi. The band, who takes cues from Taking Back Sunday and Brand New, had a few technical difficulties that hindered their set, but when all was said and done, these Brunswick boys rocked the throngs of fans that made the trip down Route 18 to see them. Their covers of Taking Back Sunday and their patented extended version of The Outfield’s “Your Love” were huge hits. Their TBS cover actually saw them bring audience members on stage for gang vocals…a nice touch indeed.
Tara Elliott & The Red Velvets
No offense to the plethora of bands who’ve played our shows, but Tara Elliott & The Red Velvets delivered one of the all-time best performances in Shipwrecked’s history. This band tore the house down, receiving some of the most raucous and passionate applause we’ve heard at our shows. It was a 45 minute set of smokin’ electric blues and rock ‘n’ roll. Elliott’s vocals were rich and powerful, evoking the sounds of the queens of blues from the days of yore. The entire crowd was in awe of this band’s performance.
The Brigantines
Gonna be a bit biased, but I love watching these guys go to work. And their work is purely fun rock ‘n’ roll. Their Beach Boys-inspired surf pop band bring just a fun, laid back style to the stage, but man do these guys know how to play their instruments. They effortlessly shred their faces off…and it’s awesome. This is a band you’ve got to see live as you’ll discover one of your new favorite bands.
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