Dug in NJ
a.k.a talents that are based locally to The Underground Edit
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In conversation with Johnny Kasun: one guitar, endless possibilities
For many musicians, the guitar is just one piece of a larger band. For Johnny Kasun, it is the entire show. Through his use of fingerstyle guitar, Kasun creates the sound of multiple musicians at once, weaving melody, rhythm, and basslines together on a single instrument. When a guitar was placed in Kasun’s hand at…
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In conversation with Pat Guadagno: how to make your own kind of music
If you’re lucky, you’ll get to hear two versions of a song: the original version and the Pat Guadagno version. For almost 50 years, the celebrated singer and musician has been entertaining audiences with his lively and unique stylings of beloved music, continuing to elevate songs with his innate musicality and one-of-a-kind perspective. Born and…
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In conversation with Luke Brindley: living for the music
Music is second nature for Luke Brindley. From growing up in a music-centric family in North Jersey to studying the art in school, it’s almost as if music is the sun and Brindley lives in its orbit. “My parents were amateur musicians,” Brindley explained, “and I played in a duo with my brother. Music, and…
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In conversation with Kenna Heim of Blush Boy: building a band, part 1
For Kenna Heim, the start of her journey with Blush Boy wasn’t a grand cinematic moment; it was a curious raised hand. “At one of our orientation meetings, I raised my hand and said something that told everybody that I was a singer,” Heim recalled. “Then I was approached by Gavin [Kim], and he was…
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In conversation with Lilies of David: power in contrast
Lilies of David didn’t set out to become a band. Originating as an alternative pop duo between Jeremy Rotolo and Dierdra McGrath, the project has since evolved into a five-piece band, joined by Michael Pulice (lead guitar), Matt Sonzogni (bass), and Derek Arnheiter (drums). “I kind of indirectly found out she could sing,” recalled Rotolo,…
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In conversation with James Maddock: unraveling the mystery of songwriting
British-born singer/songwriter James Maddock is renowned for his rousing live performances, deeply emotional music, and his innate ability to connect with audiences everywhere. For Maddock, his passion for music began at a very young age, under the wing of his grandfather, a semi-professional ukulele player. Learning to play the instrument himself, Maddock soon understood the…
