Kicking off at Shipyard Marina Pier at 13th Street at 1PM, the Music Fest offered community members the chance to hear acoustic sets by the very talented Casey Henry, Marc Giannotti, Ray Greiche, Jessica Rose and Anna Zoe. Along with this, hMAG set up a cash bar, activities for children (including a bounce house and money machine), and vendor booths with local sponsors like Connect by Hertz, Halstead Property, Local Barre, LA Boxing and Fingerstyle Guitar Magazine. The Music Fest boasted free smoothies from Energy Kitchen, ice cream from Ben & Jerry’s and subs from Vito’s Deli. Along with this, raffles were drawn all day with prizes ranging from music lessons at Garden Street Music and 2 Ibanez guitars from Guitar Bar to Rockaholic hair products from hMAG advertiser TONI&GUY.

After the family-friendly day portion of the Music Fest wrapped up at 6PM, the second half of the festival drew music-lovers over to one of the best music venues in Hoboken, Maxwell’s (1039 Washington St.), from 8-1AM. For $10, after-party-goers could enjoy the fresh sounds of Hey Tiger, Red Flag Fleet, 7Mornings, InAshton and The Better World. Along with this, TONI&GUY offered more raffle prizes and hMAG raffled off another Ibanez guitar from the Guitar Bar. This crowd was 21+ and the vibe was lively as everyone rocked out to the original, catchy sounds.

hMAG’s first annual Music Fest was a huge success because of the great bands, Hobokenites who attended, GNYC-TV in associate with M.E.A.N.Y .USA, business owners and especially due to the sponsors: Connect by Hertz and TONI&GUY. Don’t worry if you missed this year’s Music Fest-- hMAG will be having another next summer! Interested in learning more about the featured bands? Check out the July/August issue of hMAG or h-mag.com/musicfest and stay on the lookout for our September/October issue which will include more photos and information from 7/24!

Correct-o-mundo! Tonight’s organization is demonstrating the power of dance to up one’s “freedom of expression and inspiration to continue [one’s] dance education". Hudson Dance and Movement, an organization located on 80 Hudson Street dedicated to providing folks of all ages with a proper, movement education, will be offering their FREE class, tonight, at Pier A Park, from 7-8 PM. No prior experience required!

For more information on Hudson Dance & Movement or contact details, hit up www.hudsondanceandmovement.com. Hope to see you there tonight; oh! And don’t forget your dancing shoes!

Interested in other forms of fitness? There are only two more free classes left for the summer. If you haven’t taken advantage of this amazing offer, there’s no time like the present! Or, obviously, the next two weeks.

August 2- Club H: Pier A Park, 7-8 PM
August 16- Hudson Athletic Club: Pier A Park, 7-8 PM

Introduce your children to the world of teamwork, health, and fitness with the Hoboken Youth Soccer League! Starting now, the City of Hoboken is opening registration for this summer’s teams with print-out registration forms, deliverable to the City of Hoboken, 94 Washington Street. Don’t feel like going through the hassle of printing, mailing, driving, or walking? No worries! Within a few weeks, online applications will be available! Ages 5-14 are accepted; registration ends August 20.

To register your little ones today, visit www.hobokenyouthsoccer.com. Any questions? Feel free to shoot an email over to email@hobokenyouthsoccer.com. It’s summertime parents - you deserve a vacation, too.

Singer/songwriter Anna Zoe, a future hMAG Music Fest performer (4:30 PM, Pier 13, Shipyard Pier), was caught on camera pointing out an hMAG billboard emblazoned with her bubbly smile. Naturally, I followed up on the discovery, curious about one of the artists I’ve spent the last months researching. What makes her tick? How does she feel about the upcoming festival? Anna Zoe, with a personality to match her smile, happily agreed to participate in my nosy questions.

So Anna Zoe, are you excited about the upcoming festival?

I’m stoked! It’s an honor to be invited to play.

What kind of music will you be playing?

Mostly original, alternative music. [hMAG Tip: For clips of her music, simply look up ‘Anna Zoe’ on YouTube! There’s a variety of videos featuring Anna playing everywhere from Sullivan Hall to the Times Square Arts Center]

What’s your music background? When did you first start playing?

I first started playing piano when I was six and have been singing basically since I could talk, but I’ve only been playing my original music for about two years now.

Who did you grow up listening to?

I grew up listening to, and love, all classic rock.

And now?

My more recent favorite artists are Coldplay, Dave Matthews Band, John Butler Trio, Meiko, Dispatch, Florence & The Machine, The Fray, Muse, Snow Patrol, and I’m pretty positive I could go on all day.

What inspires you?

Life. The mystery of life.

Why should the audience on Saturday listen to you, in particular?

That’s a tough one, but I guess because I don’t just write and sing songs about love. I’m a rather emotional person and tend to write about the frustrations in my life, so most of my songs can take on more than one meaning. I’d also like to think I’m at least a little bit talented, too!

To finish up, what are your dreams and wishes, in regards to music?

I just want to inspire other people, whether it be through my music or my way of life. God gives us endless opportunities, but it’s up to us to find and fulfill our purpose in life.

For more information on Anna Zoe and her music, check out her personal website or blog! Be sure to come visit us this Saturday, July 24, at our first annual hMAG Music Fest. All day, from 1 PM to 1 AM, we will be offering free music and food for as many visitors as we can pack in. For locations, musicians, prizes, and more detailed information, check out our website at www.h-mag.com/musicfest!

Vendors include:

Tara Metzler, Michele Doherty, Lauren Rucci (CurlyHairConspiracy), Stephanie Swane (Baby bibs and more!), and Natalie Nowatkowski (Domino Art by Nat).

As of right now, there are four dispensers in the following locations:

Uptown Ferry Stop (14th St. Pier)

Corner of 14th Street and Washington Street

Washington Street, Between 1st and 2nd Street (Closer to 1st)

Hudson Street, Between Hudson Place and Newark Street

Still not close enough? Not to worry- this is only the beginning! hMAG is hard at work expanding our name to create more opportunities for you to flip through our pages. As always, hMAG is a luxury lifestyle magazine made free, by Hobokenites, for Hobokenites. Everything you need to know about your lovely city, whether it’s the hottest place for a cocktail, where to drop the kids off to expand their minds, or find the newest Louis Vuitton, it’s all right here. In your hands. Less than a minute’s walk away.

Each location offers different forms of entertainment for visitors, but Hoboken’s closest Water Day Festival location, the Liberty State Park, will host kayak tours, shorebird walks, a Waterfront History Tour, and face painting, fish printing, and other craft opportunities for kids. Various organizations will also set up booths at the festival to inform residents and visitors about waterfront preservation, marinas, and cleaner living through exhibits and activities; these organizations include Clean Ocean Action, the Army Corp of Engineers, Liberty Harbor Marina, and Friends of Liberty State Park.

For festival goers wishing to get an unusual, up-close-and-personal view of the Hudson, check out the free boat tours leaving from Governor’s Island! With a list of different tours to choose from (including the Future Waterfront Tour or ‘Get-A-Bit-Wet’ Fireboat Tour perfect for families), everyone can enjoy a relaxing afternoon out on the water, fit to taste. And don’t worry! If the day sucks the energy and breakfast right out of your system, all four locations are packed with Vendy-Award-Winning vendors and two concession stands, selling old school favorites such as chicken wings, fries, cheeseburgers, and hot dogs on the cheap (most expensive piece being...$6.50? Wow).

The City of Water Day Festival, founded in 2008, is sponsored by the Metropolitan Waterfront Alliance- “the voice of over 400 organizations with ties to our regional waterways”. This non-profit group brings together different organizations along the Hudson to transform the waterways into beautiful, clean locations for both work and play. What better way to celebrate this goal than a six-hour party? Come on Saturday, hurry it up!

For more information, schedules, or directions, see the City of Water Day Festival’s official website at www.cityofwaterday.org!

The fundraiser, for “Jerry’s Kids”, includes various, local firefighters setting up shop in high traffic areas (try the PATH station and near the Malibu Diner at 14th St.) and asking pedestrians for spare bills to help fill up..you guessed it, a boot full of money! The money is donated directly to the MDA and Jerry’s Kids to help prevent the disease and research possible cures. If, like me, you have no idea who or what Jerry’s Kids are, they’re the children with muscular dystrophy that are supported by both the MDA and its chairman slash comedian, Jerry Lewis.

The fundraiser is taking place this week, July 21-23. Keep your eyes and pocketbooks peeled, and be prepared to throw some money at those hunky firefighters (ok, don’t throw. I don’t want to responsible for a money tossing lawsuit)! Whether it is fifty cents or fifty dollars, every little bit counts. Good luck Hoboken, and fill...DAS BOOT!

Hailing from Ottawa, Canada, The Acorn are still fresh faces in the music industry, playing together for only eight years. If you’ve ever listened to Fleet Foxes, Midlake, Noah & The Whale, Volcano Choir, or the Talking Heads and loved it--this is the band for you. Indie folk rock, with a bit of a Beirut twinge hovering over the pounding percussion and backup vocals. Still not indie enough for you? How about the fact that The Acorn completely isolated themselves from society by living in a Quebec cottage while writing their 2010 album, No Ghost? Yeah. Add a couple self-crocheted hats, and these guys could headline Bonnaroo.

Although the crowd was small (most likely due to Americans’ limited knowledge of the Canadian ensemble), I was mesmerized. I expected an average show with average beer and was rewarded with neither. Dressed casually in rolled up blue jeans, t-shirts, and plaid button-ups, The Acorn came off as an urban Mumford & Sons while Maxwell’s bartenders catered to everyone’s groggy needs. Although I had been told time and time again about Maxwell’s being the place in town for beats and suds, it was something I had to see to believe.

Oh! And a quick shout out to The Acorn’s opening act, Communipaw, a Garden State band formed in 2007 due to a chance encounter between two of the bands members. Communipaw presents a classical mix of indie rock and alternative country, with the lead singer’s angelic voice bringing me back to the lighter days of Matt Pryor. Gracious in both online and face-to-face communication, this band has quickly risen from impromptu performance to invigorating opener. For more information on both the band and music, check out http://www.communipawmusic.com.

Who or what gave birth to the Hudson Restaurant Week?

The Hudson Restaurant Week was founded in 2005 by Tamara Remedios, a young entrepreneur skilled in promoting both entertainment and where to find it. In 2003, her magazine, Get Out Hudson, was originally created to inform residents in the Hoboken area where to find the best nightlife, dining, and shopping, while keeping tabs on the newest travel, beauty, health, and community developments. Tamara is a woman after my own heart, reminding Hobokenites that the best locations are in their own backyard!

According to Ms. Remedios herself, the Restaurant Week began “as an idea to better help and promote local restaurants in Hoboken and Jersey City.” Always the gracious woman, Ms. Remedios was adamant in her opinion of the restaurants’ place in the event, after thorough questioning on my behalf; “However much I’m proud of [The Hudson Restaurant Week’s] growth over [the past] six years, it’s not my event- it’s the restaurants that get all the credit. Without them, there isn’t an event.”

Well said, fellow Lady of the Hudson! Each year, over 20,000 people sample the various restaurants’ epicurean delights- some driving from over an hour away just to experience hometown favorites, such as Amanda’s,  3 Forty Grill, or The Madison.

How do the owners of involved restaurants feel about the project?

One word: ecstatic! Whether the restaurant has been in the lineup since 2005 or recently joined the ranks, the Restaurant Week’s participants couldn’t be happier to be involved!

I asked the folks behind two HRW establishments to share their thoughts on the upcoming week, and they quickly filled me in on the positive vibe created by the event. Drew Cheben, manager of the newly re-opened Clam Broth House and HRW Newbie, stated, “First and foremost, HRW has gained notoriety as being the best and most well organized program in Hudson County for promoting the restaurant business....the Hudson Restaurant Week is a good way to showcase what we feel we have perfected.” The Clam Broth House is planning on serving up staple dishes for the week, such as Guinness fish and chips, swordfish kabobs, shellfish cioppino, and mascarpone cheesecake.

Jerry Maher, owner of the 3 Forty Grill, longtime Hoboken landmark and experienced HBW establishment, describes the win-win situation for both the restaurants and customers; “It [HRW] is not only a huge boost for business for us, but lets many new diners experience our food at a substantial discount.” The 3 Forty Grill’s menu includes such mouthwatering favorites as grilled portabella-garlic bruschetta, panko crusted chicken, balsamic glazed beef tenderloin skewers, sesame seared sushi grade tuna, and Black Angus hanger steak au poivre.

What are the expert’s recommendations?

Avi Ohring, guide to the local Mangia Hoboken Food Tour, kindly offered his opinion on which restaurants readers should hit up during the course of the Hudson Restaurant Week! Of course, this is Mr. Ohring’s personal opinion, but let’s give credit where credit is due-- I mean, he is the expert to all things ho-BAKIN! (I promise I will never say that again.) According to Avi, check out Amanda’s, the Brass Rail, and The Madison (amazing Sunday brunch)! Oh, and though unfortunately this isn’t on the HRW list, he suggests you have some pizza at Grimaldi’s (133 Clinton St.) as well-- apparently they have a coal brick oven? Who knew?

What are the participating restaurants, and what are they serving?

Allow me to enlighten you about the participating, Hoboken establishments! For locations, schedule, parking, and full menus, click here.

3 Forty Grill (www.3fortygrill.com): 201-217-3406
Food: American/Continental
Sample Dishes: Fritto Misto, Grilled Portabella-Garlic Bruschetta, Sesame Seared Sushi Grade Tuna, Hunter Style Braised Beef Short Ribs, Death by Chocolate Brownie

Amanda’s (www.amandasrestaurant.com): 201-798-0101
Food: American/Continental
Sample Dishes: Currently unavailable.

Arthur’s Tavern (www.arthurstavern.com): 201-656-5009
Food: Steakhouse, American/Continental
Sample Dishes: Manhattan Clam Chowder, Arthur’s Junior Cut Sirloin, BBQ Ribs, Ice Cream Cake Roll

The Brass Rail (www.thebrassrailnj.com): 201-659-7074
Food: American/Continental, Seafood
Sample Dishes: Steamed Mussels, Jalapeno & Honey Marinated Chicken Breast, Mustard Glazed Scallops, Shrimp & Sage Ravioli

Clam Broth House (www.originalclambrothhouse.com): 201-656-1111
Food: Seafood, American/Continental
Sample Dishes: Guinness Fish & Chips, Penne with Shrimp, Shellfish Cioppino, Roasted Salmon, Mixed Berry Cake

The Clinton Social (www.clintonsocial.com): 201-239-0063
Food: American/Continental
Sample Dishes: Chilean Seabass, Pork Chop Milanese, Roasted Free-Range Chicken, Apple Crisp

Dino & Harry’s (www.dinoandharrys.com): 201-659-6202
Food: Steakhouse, American/Continental
Sample Dishes: Trio of Empanadas, Petit Filet Mignon, Grilled Salmon, Key Lime Tartlet

Elysian Cafe (www.elysiancafe.com): 201-798-5898
Food: French, American/Continental
Sample Dishes: Elysian Burger, Key Lime Pie, Mussels with White-Wine-Garlic Sauce, Marinated Skirt Steak, Roasted French Chicken Breast, Creme Brulee

Gaslight (www.gaslightnj.com): 201-217-1400
Food: American/Continental
Sample Dishes: Lobster Bisque, Shrimp & Scallops, Apple Cobbler, New York Cheesecake

The Madison Bar & Grill (www.madisonbarandgrill.com): 201-386-0300
Food: American/Continental
Sample Dishes: Currently Unavailable.

The Quays (www.thequayshoboken.com): 201-656-2521
Food: American/Continental
Sample Dishes: Grilled Steak Wrap, Chicken & Wild Mushroom Stuffed Crepe, Cilantro & Lime Marinated Chicken, Tri-Color Fusili & Shrimp, Pan-Seared Chilean Seabass, Gelato

Trinity (www.hobokentrinity.com): 201-533-4446
Food: American/Continental
Sample Dishes: Changes Daily.

The Turtle Club (www.hobokenturtleclub.com): 201-710-5960
Food: American/Continental
Sample Dishes: Rustic Tuscan Bread Salad, Turtle Club Panini, Baked Rigatoni, Blackened Tilapia, Cheesecake of the Day

Zylo Tuscan Steak House (www.zylorestaurant.com): 201-253-2500
Food: Steakhouse, American/Continental
Sample Dishes: Zylo Steak Burger, Rigatoni Al’ Amatriciana, Passion Fruit Semifreddo, 20 oz. Bone-In Ribeye, Chicken Grilled w/ Lemon and Rosemary

Well readers, I hope this helps! As for me, a newcomer to Hoboken, I look forward to this event giving me an excuse to stuff myself. Who knows? You might just run into me at Amanda’s! Or The Madison. Clam Broth House.......?

Bringing together those who have been touched by cancer in the community as well as creating awareness and raising money to aide the American Cancer Society, the Hoboken Relay For Life is an all day event to remember those lost to cancer and celebrate those who have survived.

The 2010 RFL event boasted all-day family-friendly activities, local bands, and a Luminaria Ceremony at dusk. For more info on Relay For Life or to get involved, visit www.relayforlife.org/hobokennj.

The music industry itself is nothing like it used to be, never mind the "music scene" in a tiny little bedroom whistle-stop like Hoboken. And yet a vibrant musical landscape does in fact exist in the midst of such clatter, giving an outlet to creativity while providing solace to those fickle fringe fanatics who want more from their entertainment than spoon-fed network television karaoke.

The Control Room
Anyone who has been around Hoboken long enough can tell you how it used to be (check out Stephen Bailey's "The 'Glory Days' of Hoboken Music" on page XX), and few have been around as long as Jim Mastro, owner of the city's premier music shop--the Guitar Bar (160 First Street). "People are always nostalgic for older days," he says, "but there are so many good players in town nowadays, probably hundreds." He would know, since not only does Mastro sell most of them their gear, but he also runs The Pigeon Club recording studios with co-owners Wayne Dorell and Daniel Schlett--one of several top-notch professional recording studios located right here in town.

Another example of which is Garden Street Music (1018 Washington Street), run by husband and wife team Dan and Annie McLoughlin. "The secret is that my wife is super organized and business savvy," says Dan. "We never could have done it without her."

Dan is a veteran musician and founding member of The Push Stars, having worked and lived in places like Woodstock, Boston, and Los Angeles. "I remember years before I even moved here, people kept telling me Hoboken was the place to be." One key element that inspired the McLoughlins to plant their roots in Hoboken was the relative communal nature of the music scene--even at the professional level. "I've worked with [other] producers in town; everyone has a place and we all have different things to offer." He adds, "Through solid hard work we've gotten a good rep. I built that by working my ass off, we've hung everything on that. True musicians are never gonna get a 'real job'--we're devoted to this, down to our last penny."

In addition to production work, Garden Street Music offers its own progressive brand of music school. "We were very fortunate to get good musicians," say McLoughlin, "then the kids say what makes them happy about music, and we try to find whatever works best for them. If they like the Beatles, we teach them the Beatles; and from there they learn to drive themselves."

In their experience, this town has proven to be a fertile ground for aspiring musicians. "Hoboken shows a respect for music," says McLoughlin. "This wouldn't work in many other towns--people feel it's important, and that it's important to be part of that music community."

Chris "Gibby” Gibson has been at the heart of the Hoboken music community for over twenty years. His Upstart Studios (300 Observer Highway) caters to predominantly local, original bands and singer/songwriters in genres ranging from Adult, Alternative Rock and Folk to Punk, Metal, and Hardcore. "I would say about a 65/35 ratio of Hoboken [based artists] versus general tri-state area artists," says Gibson. "I've had performers come from as far away as Canada and Sweden to work with me, but that's rare these days."

"I'm very glad to see that there is not only enough of us 'old school' musicians who've managed to stick it out while the economic and social scene has changed so drastically over the years, but a steady influx of new performers who bring a fresh perspective to a scene that is desperately trying to keep itself alive and stay relevant," says an obviously very passionate Gibson. "I'm proud to say there is still a sense of teamwork; we can still work together and try to achieve the artistic brilliance that will leave fans and fellow artists with a sense of accomplishment and fulfillment that they just couldn't get anywhere else in the world."

Meanwhile, performing both solo and with his band High Speed Chase keeps Gibson out and about on the frontlines. "We usually stick to local, Hoboken based venues like Maxwell's or if I do anything solo or acoustic, I'll usually hit Dave Entwistle's Open Mic at Northern Soul," he says.

The Stages
Some places try to attract musicians, while others have evolved into the attraction themselves. With little debate, Maxwell's (1039 Washington St.) is easily considered to be the hub of live music in Hoboken, if not all of northern New Jersey. With a turbulent history that spans four decades, Maxwell's has seen such acts as The Cowsills, Nick Lowe, Oasis, Beck, David Byrne, the White Stripes, and Nirvana. And while their chicken pot pie alone is worth the price of admission, according to owner Todd Abramson, several other factors make Maxwell's a MUST on the tour itineraries of so many great bands.

"Well, the meal certainly counts," he concedes, "but also the atmosphere is very conducive to great shows and great times. The sound is excellent and bands are treated very well. In conjunction with New York or Brooklyn plays, it also often means short travel between shows." (For more on the story behind Maxwell's, check out Stephen Bailey's "The 'Glory Days' of Hoboken Music" on page XX)

Meanwhile on the other end of town, the Whiskey Bar continues the musical tradition in a space that has long been one of the best in town to play. Manager Chad Tomlin says, "For original bands we look for a tight, polished sound with genres from contemporary to progressive rock, and everything in-between. For cover bands, we look for bands that can perform an extremely diverse selection of songs--from The Beatles to Lady Gaga, and beyond." He adds, "We look for bands that not only sound great, but that have the stage presence to entertain the masses."

A prime example of this stage presence can be seen with acts like Johnny Drama, who incorporate choreographed, synchronized video performances that create a unique feast of the senses for all in attendance. Meanwhile solid original acts like 7Mornings (see the Mar/Apr issue of hMAG for a complete review) keep the house packed with avid fans.

The Trenches
But for any sort of burgeoning music scene to maintain its presence, there has to be accessibility. Thanks to the effort and amibitions of Hoboken's tightly knit music community, both the fan and the artist have their chances to show a mutual appreciation.

Started about 10 years ago, The Peoples Open Mic is the longest running program of its kind in Hoboken, currently calling Northern Soul (557 First St.) its home. Tuesdays are open to singers, musicians, poets, and comedians, while Thursdays are for original singer-songwriters and small acoustic-based bands. Over its duration, singer-songwriter Dave Entwistle has, "created an open mic vibe that encourages a supportive attitude amongst its players. Many bands and artists get their "stage legs" by playing open mics," he says. "I continue to do it because I love watching people blossom into genuine artists from such humble beginnings."

Friday nights at Northern Soul are reserved for DJ Mike C, who enjoys the venue's "retro-futuristic mix."

"It's the only place I know of in town where every weekend a DJ plays new indie stuff like LCD Soundsystem and Ted Leo alongside classics ranging from Blondie and Bowie to The Clash and The Cure." Proving that a disc jockey in the Garden State doesn't have to fit a "reality" TV stereotype, DJ Mike C caters to, "people who want to hear something different than what they hear at every other bar--people who have awesome music on their iPods; people who like Iggy Pop, Chrissie Hynde, Dave Grohl, James Brown and Ray Davies."

Playing off that same, seemingly unique concept of giving people something different, you'll find Will O'Connor, Jenny Lyden and Jeff Sassaman--the core of what has come to be called "Music For Grownups."

According to O'Connor, "Music For Grownups” was born out of the need that many thirty-somethings in Hoboken feel for a more eclectic and adult pub experience." With O'Connor on guitar, Lyden on various forms of percussion and Sassaman on the upright bass, the concept delivers, "music that doesn't need to be loud to be enjoyed, songs that don't have to be in the Top 40 to be worth listening to, and nights where you don't feel out of place because you're not there to get $#!+faced."

Closing Act
With an exceptional sense of support at all levels of the community--from City Hall to the corner bar, Hoboken's music scene continues to flourish. The determined and passionate artists listed here are but a sample of what this city has to offer. Put down the remote, leave the earbuds at home and take it in while you can… before it's ALL too loud, and you're too old.

So, when were the Glory Days of Hoboken music? For a lot of folks, they were not that long ago. However, memories of the past can be blurred by nostalgia or corrupted by a lingering present-day bitterness. (In fact, I began to wonder if my own memories were all that clear.)

Crammed into dark spaces under low ceilings, choking on smoke and ears ringing from over-amplified sound, the object was try to find cheap beer and try to be heard. It was a trial of obstacles that bands needed to overcome. As harsh as it sounds, the conditions were really no different than those of any other musical metropolis. What made Hoboken's scene different was the amount of venues and the unusual camaraderie among bands.

It's hard to imagine this today, but at its peak in the 80's and 90's, Hoboken boasted many places for local, original bands to play on any given weekend. In fact, just a few blocks from the PATH there were places like Boo Boo's Funkadelic Lounge, Cadillac Bar, Scotland Yard (which is still there), Love Sexy (aka Signore's Lounge), Down Under, and The Beat'n Path (later called Live Tonight, Zells, and Whiskey Bar). Moving further into town, there were Willie McBride's, Court Street, Elysian Cafe, The Liquid Lounge, and--the one that started it all--Maxwell's.

Sowing the Seeds

In 1978 Steve Fallon--along with his sisters Kathryn Jackson Fallon, Anne Fallon Mazzolla and his brother-in-law Mario Mazzola--dreamed of turning an old factory-worker hangout into a successful restaurant and music venue. Its opening could not have been timed better. The depressed economics of the town in the late 70s and early 80s made Hoboken the ideal place for young musicians and artists seeking affordable housing.

"Hoboken was lucky enough to foster not only one, but a few places to play," says James Mastro; Guitar Bar owner, musician and member of The Bongos--who were the first Hoboken band of the era to be signed to a major label. "And rent played a big part in it. If rents are cheaper, you're gonna have a lot more more artists around who can afford to be in original bands."

It was also attracting suburban kids who were intimidated by NYC. The legend of this new Hoboken scene began to grow around the country as well. A fanzine called The NY Rocker employed a young reviewer named Glenn Morrow who was a member of the very first band to ever play at Maxwell's. That band, simply called 'a', also included Richard Barone, Frank Giannini and Rob Norris of The Bongos. Morrow later went on to found Bar/None Records.

Thanks in large part to the meticulous booking practices of Todd Abramson, Maxwell's quickly became famous as a place to see great live music. Both local and touring bands thrived here.

The Legend Grows

The members of R.E.M. were avid NY Rocker readers at the time and began making frequent stops at Maxwell's. So taken by the venue and the town, when Maxwell's was confronted with financial difficulties, guitarist Peter Buck became part owner. Later, Bob Mould of Hüsker Dü did the same. A myriad of touring bands--many of whom went on to fame or infamy--considered it a staple venue. And Hoboken was on the map as a music town.

For the local musicians, there was a sense that a community was growing even beyond Maxwell's. "The [Hoboken] Arts and Music Festival allowed almost all of the local bands to perform," says David Ribyat of Las Vandelays. "It was a great day for these bands to play to a big audience."

There were shows at the historic Lackawanna Terminal, one of the oldest running railroad stations. The Bongos playing at the station is one of Mastro's fondest memories. Meanwhile another show featuring Black 47 in 1993 attracted so many rowdy fans that the entire city had to be shut down.

kitchenTablemusic, a series started by musician and future mayoral candidate Tom Vincent at Live Tonight in 1989, was a forerunner to a vibrant open-mic tradition in town. And of course, there were the loft parties. Artists who could afford large-scale studios in converted industrial complexes would throw massive parties featuring live music… and even the occasional tire swing.

All Good Things Must Come To An End
So, what happened? The economy happened, again. Only this time, it was different. Whereas a depressed economy helps foster the arts, an upswing often knocks them out. As early as 1985, when Coyote Records (founded by Steve Fallon) released Luxury Condos Coming To Your Neighborhood Soon (the title written in blood), an unsettling image of Hoboken's future began to come into focus and by the mid 90s, the party was coming to an end.

The rising cost of living affected everyone, including the clubs. "Owners stopped paying guarantees to bands," explains musician and studio owner Chris "Gibby" Gibson. "After that, the clubs had the upper hand. They knew there were a lot of mediocre bands popping up out of the woodwork that would play for nothing just to get their foot in the door. The quality acts that were once paid were no longer necessary." And even that didn't last.

The cultural diversity of Hoboken was dwindling as well. "At one time you could tell the cut of a man's jib just by looking at him," said Mastro. Today, the constant movement of transient students and young professionals looking only to eat, drink, and sleep close to work or school has washed away much of the town's personality along with that feeling of community.

"Bars turned into expensive dance clubs and live-music venues only wanted cover bands to fit the new arrivals' tastes," said Ribyat.

So how did Maxwell's survive? It almost didn't. In the late 90's, it was sold and turned into a microbrewery. Gone was the booking policy that allowed new music to flourish, and in its stead was a rancid smell from giant conical vats situated too close to the dining area. It failed.

Thankfully Todd Abramson, who had left during this time, returned to buy the club along with Steve Shelley of Sonic Youth and Dave Post of The Amazing Incredibles and Swingadelic. Reopening in 1998, Maxwell's soon reclaimed its throne as the best--and pretty much only--place for original live music.

The Legend Lives On

Toward the end of the 90s, a handful of devoted fans, promoters and performers worked to keep the original music scene alive. This was not easy as venues kept changing format.

Artist and bar owner Joseph Borzotta made sure the The Liquid Lounge was a haven for original music. The weekly open mic hosted by Mike Latch set a standard of quality that continues to this day. There singer/songwriter Scott E. Moore began his popular Writers Hang, at which performers would play and discuss their craft to an always enthusiastic crowd.

When The Liquid Lounge was sold, the scene moved to the Rodeo/Ristra Lounge. The open mic continued under the guidance of Ivy Giacchino of ArtKore.org who also hosted Sunday afternoon showcases and Monday night poetry. And when that place closed, the scene moved to The Goldhawk. It would become the center of new music in town through the 00's, thanks to owner/musician Fran Azzarto and long-time open mic host Dave Entwistle who had inherited the reins of the showcase, changing its name to The People's Open Mic. Jim Testa of Jersey Beat and Lazlo of BlowUpRadio.com hosted Folk You!, a monthly showcase of local talent.

When The Goldhawk closed in 2009, it was a blow many thought the scene could not survive. But, it's hard to keep a good scene down.

Throughout the mid to late 00's, folks like Roland Ramos would host guerrilla-style showcases all over town. Bill Hamilton of beelmedia built a stage, converting his residential loft into a venue. Vocaliast Jennifer Lampert began staging intimate showcases at her music school called Be Vocal. In 2010, musician Marc Giannotti began an acoustic showcase at old-school watering hole Louise & Jerry's. And The Peoples Open Mic is now at Northern Soul and is going strong. Even the venerable coverband joint Whiskey Bar has been booking more original bands of late.

There may not be as many places for bands to play these days, but the passion for live, original music is still strong. And many of the of the people who made the scene happen in the 80's and 90's are still here.

"I don't know how any of them can afford to live in Hoboken anymore, but they're still there, still making the Mile Square City special," says Jim Testa of Jersey Beat. "A place that started out in the late 70's as a blue-collar ghost town, as a place you came to from somewhere else to be a musician or an artist, became the town where people put down roots. That is what defines Hoboken for me."

Elsayed has wife of 20 years and Little Grocery co-owner, Peggy, to thank for his career choice. “It was her idea that I attend culinary school. She saw an ad for the French Culinary Institute in the paper and told me that I should go.” And so he went.

When retiring after many grueling years in the restaurant world, his wife again inspired his next move--turning a piece of their property into a cozy, Parisian-like café.

Quiches, pastas, and paninis are prepared fresh daily, but the simple and sinfully fluffy egg sandwiches might be the biggest draw--pair with a flakey croissant for extra buttery goodness.

Bon Appétit!

But for a lazy ol' bi-monthly publication like hMAG, we have the luxury of stepping back and taking notice of the positive. We know the world isn't all sunshine, lollipops and rainbows, but it's not as gloomy as others might make it seem.

There are encouraging stories in this city that deserve to be told. Take Hoboken's ever-evolving music scene. In this issue we examine where it's been, where it is, and spotlight those who are doing their part to determine where it's going. Meanwhile we share the story of Faith Pruden, and how the Hoboken community banded together in an effort to lift her spirits through a rather difficult time. And as always we have our Raves, which tell you where to go and what to do to help you get it done right.

While the others wrap their hands around the throat to get "their finger on the pulse of Hoboken," we calmly listen to its heart and feel its soul. It has one, you know - you just need to take the time and know where to look.

We thank you for reading, we look forward to hearing from you and we appreciate all you do to make Hoboken, well… Hoboken.

Gratefully yours,
The hMAG Staff

“I was always trying to plan things for Faith to look forward to,” Worley explained, “A cancer mom told me that her son died within 48 hours of her son's Make A Wish trip. That was the last thing he had to look forward to. I was determined not to allow that to happen to Faith.”

With Worley’s dedication to her daughter and a little help from friends, family, and even strangers, Faith began checking things off of her list - which is where hMAG came into the picture.

hMAG’S INVOLVEMENT

hMAG approached Faith, her mother, grandmother, Laura, and 9-year-old sister, Trinity, and offered them a trip to Hoboken. Once in the Mile Square, they would stay at the W Hotel and experience the special week put together by hMAG, its advertisers, and the generous Hoboken community and business owners.

“Faith was so excited about hMAG’s offer,” Worley said. “She counted down the days.”

#6: MAKE A CAKE WITH THE CAKE BOSS

Among the twenty items on Faith’s wish list, along with being in a magazine, riding in a horse-drawn carriage, owning her own bakery, meeting Taylor Swift, and more, Faith really wanted to make a bake with Buddy “Cake Boss” Valastro from Carlo’s Bakery right here in Hoboken.

After falling for Buddy from TLC’s Cake Boss, Faith developed her own interest in cooking and dreamt about the day she could come to the Mile Square, meet Buddy, and make a cake with the Cake Boss himself.

When hMAG set up the trip for Faith and her family, Buddy and Carlo’s Bakery agreed to make Faith’s wish come true. Faith was able to go to the bakery, start from scratch and make the cake of her dreams – the theme being Heaven. Faith and Buddy created a chocolate mousse sky blue cake with angels, clouds, butterflies and doves. Since they had “watched every episode,” the Cake Boss bigheartedly gave the family autographs and goodies to take back to Ohio. Faith’s smile could not have gotten any bigger as her wish was coming true.

THE TRIP ITINERARY

Besides Faith’s wish to make a cake with Buddy, hMAG set up an entire week for the family to enjoy while they were in the Hoboken/NYC area to check some more items off of Faith’s wish list.

Sunday, May 16

o Faith, Trinity, Sarah & Grandmother fly from Columbus to Hoboken

o Receive a “fancy” limo ride courtesy of Vincent Limousine (#16 on her list) to the W Hoboken

o Welcome dinner at the Melting Pot with hMAG team & families, 5PM

o Stay at W Hotel

Monday, May 17

o Make a cake with Buddy from Cake Boss, Carlo’s Bakery, 12-1PM

o Zylo Restaurant for dinner

Tuesday, May 18

o Switch over to the Four Points by Sheraton Hotel in Midtown Times Square (Tues-Fri)

o Stop Sweet in Hoboken for some complimentary cupcakes

o Hair Cult & Marma Day Spa, 2PM: Spa day and pampering

o Town House No.620 Shopping spree-

o Toots&Tallie Shopping spree

o Photo Shoot with hMAG contributor photographer Robert Wagner

o hMIXER/Fundraiser @The Quays with HFA, 6:30-10PM

Wednesday, May 19

o Limo ride to the 2PM matinee of The Lion King on Broadway

o Tour of Times Square

o Ride in horse-drawn carriage through Central Park

o Dinner at Onieals Soho, 174 Grand St.

Thursday, May 20

o Spend the day in NYC

o Runway fashion show at The Sak showroom. Here, the family would each also pick out a bag from the brand new collection of The Sak

o NY Yankees game at 7PM, where the Yankees were working with hMAG to have Faith come onto the field and even meet some of the players!

Friday, May 21

o Check out of hotel

o Limo to Laguardia Airport

hMIXER

Unfortunately Faith’s special trip was cut short when her illness took a turn for the worst and she did not have the strength to complete everything hMAG had originally planned.

With so many extraordinary things planned, it’s unfortunate that Faith was unable to experience her action-packed week and check some items off of her wish list. However, even with Faith unable to attend, hMAG’s May hMIXER on Tuesday 5/18 at The Quays was dedicated to her, with all proceeds going toward her medical bills. Co-sponsored by the Hoboken Family Alliance, donations were collected all night and raffle tickets were sold to prizes from hMAG advertisers The Sak, The Shannon, and Koko FitClub, along with other Hoboken businesses William Howard Home, Revival Vintage Boutique, Sport TaeKwonDo, and Priority Chiropractic. The hMIXER also boasted two live performances from Hobokenite Ray Greiche and a special acoustic performance by Adam McDonough and John Miller of 7Mornings. Over $1300 was raised for Faith at the event.

DONATE

hMAG wants to thank everyone who offered to help Faith and her family – it truly is times like these when we realize how special Hoboken is and how quickly The Mile Square comes together to help those in need. Faith was definitely restored in hMAG. For more information on Faith and her wish list or to donate directly to her medical bills, go to faithswishlist.com.

Special Thanks:

Dawn Wilson Lewis who sent the original Facebook message, The Quays, Vincent Limousine, W Hoboken, Melting Pot, Crepe Grill, Carlo’s Bakery, Zylo, Sweet, Hair Cult, Marma Day Spa, Town House No. 620, Toots&Tallie, Robert Wagner Photography, Onieal’s, The Sak, TravelAdvocates, Paradigm: William Craver & Jonathan Mills, Disney, Bill Melms & Guarini Plumbing, William Howard Home, Midtown Authentic, The Shannon, Revival Vintage Boutique, Chris DeSantis RI Communications Group, Sporttaekwondo, Romparoo, Hudson Dance Center, Four Points by Sheraton, Ray Greiche, 7Mornings, Jennifer Ogden-Reese for People Magazine and the Hoboken Family Alliance