Having covered the Asbury Park music scene for nearly 10 years it’s wild to see the journey of certain bands.
Back in 2013, Cranston Dean was the new hot band that everyone had to book. Their name was on the tip of everyone’s tongue. They were the bright shiny new toy that everyone had to check out.
Now, if you think this paragraph is going to talk about some sort of downfall, you’d be very wrong. Cranston Dean has gone from the flavor of the minute to a cornerstone of the Asbury scene. The band’s name is still revered and cherished, and they are still as must-see as they were six years ago. This demand is predicated on the fact Cranston Dean makes awesome music, plain and simple. Tonight, the guys bring their signature sound back to The Wonder Bar for Happy Mondays.
Cranston Dean is (Members & Instruments They Play): Ike Gutierrez – Bass/Vox, Riley Schiro – Guitar/Vox, Shane Luckenbaugh – Drums, Cranston Dean – Guitar/Keys/Vox.
Year We Formed In: 2013
We’re Based Out Of: Highlands, NJ
You’ve Seen Us in Other Bands Such As: Mark Aguilar Family Band, Ehiarobo, Patty C Band, American Trappist, River City Extension, Sleepmonster.
Famous/Awesome Bands We’ve Shared the Stage With: Illiterate Light, RayLand Baxter, Nicole Atkins, Simone Felice, Lost Leaders, Planes On Paper, Mercury Brothers.
You’ve released some great records throughout the years — is there new music on the horizon for the band?
Got new songs to record this winter, new music coming in 2020.
You’ve been a vital part of the Asbury Park music scene for years — can you talk about it’s changed (in a good or bad way) since you started gigging around the city?
There are many more spots which is great. As we’ve traveled, we’ve seen the reputation of the town grow in other states and cities, through musicians and music enthusiasts, who tell us of how they enjoyed their time in AP or are looking to come. With all due respect, it’s grown from just being known as the hometown of Bruce Springsteen (again with much respect to The Boss) to having a larger identity. I really enjoy how comedy has taken hold and that local Hip-Hop is getting more shine.
Lots of great horn sections since we started playing in town too. I think Ian Gray and Ryan Gregg should each get some credit for that. Lastly, Sea.Hear.Now has been an awesome addition … we dig it.
What do you love about being in this band?
I get to play with my best friends. I know that sounds cliche… but you would be hard pressed to find a band that is as close as us. You can catch them carrying the casket at my funeral.
Not to mention, these dudes SLAP! Never heard anyone play like Ike, Riley, or Shane and I am lucky to call them friends and bandmates.
What are you most excited for, musically for the band, in 2020?
Looking forward to recording and traveling. Same shit, different decade.
