Wednesday is upon us once again, my how this year is flying! I feel like the ball just dropped and we struck midnight to 2015. We are in full spring mode, the weather is getting warmer and bands are in full force on booking shows! So many cool things happening on the local front including The Front Bottoms and The Scandals playing Skate And Surf, along with The Gaslight Anthem and The Parlor Mob (all some of New Jersey’s finest), Toothgrinder hitting the road with 36 Crazyfists, Lost In Society getting back from Europe, and so much more. It’s great to see so many acts from this area living out their dreams and getting things done! Naturally, these are just a few things that are happening on the local front, but you should still get out there and support the local venues, acts, bars, and show some support for the scene.

On that note, let’s talk about a band that also just did something cool, and has been making a splash on the local front. They’ve been around since 2010, and I admit I may be late to the fame game, but better late than never. They go by the name of Scottish Widows, and you may or may not have heard of them already. They recently shared the stage with Drowning Pool at the legendary Starland Ballroom in Sayreville, New Jersey, and they blew me away! Let’s get to know a little bit more about them, shall we?

Scottish Widows classify themselves as a “guitar-driven hard rock” band with Eric Suky on lead vocals, Carl Rizzo on guitar and vocals, Mikey Vee on drums and vocals, and Al Russo on bass and vocals. Now, one thing you may be surprised to know about them is when they first started out in the stone age of 2010, they were aiming to become a classic/blues cover band. However, upon bringing in new members and giving their sound a new style and mix, they realized that playing covers was not enough for them. They had discovered a creative bond that there was a lot more to, and they wanted to showcase some originality to match their talent, gearing them in the direction of an original band. The rest is now rock and roll history.

They have cited a lot of their influences as some rock powerhouses such as Stone Temple Pilots, Buckcherry, and more. Upon seeing they were playing Starland Ballroom, I immediately did some research, and started to get into their sound. I started checking out their EP entitled Drive Me Crazy, and ironically, it did just that. The leadoff track, also entitled “Drive Me Crazy,” immediately set the tone for what a rollercoaster ride this band is—compacted with high energy, getting your adrenaline flowing to its peak. With heavy guitars and some solid drums, along with some on point lead vocals, this band definitely has the edge. This track is perfectly arranged with a killer chorus.

A song that really grabbed my attention by the throat is called “Threw It All Away.” This is the second song on the EP, and it’s just as raw as its predecessor. It’s one of those songs that although it’s heavy, the lyrics are extremely powerful. This song could be relatable to many fans on various different levels—take a listen and you will see what I mean here. Every song on this EP is vibrant and energetic. I could hear them on mainstream rock radio, and I wouldn’t change the dial. It’s definitely an EP that is worth your time from start to finish.

Also, on a side note, their live set is killer, and you should take any opportunity you can to see them if they are at a venue near you. Or, even better, get in the car and travel—it will be worth your time. You can learn more about this band on their Facebook page at facebook.com/scottishwidowsband. They also have an official website with their music, tour dates, photos, and more at scottishwidowsband.net. Staten Island has produced some rock and rollers right here, and trust me, you want to jump on the bandwagon. They’ve got the style, the sound, the look, and the edge to satisfy all of your musical needs!

I will be back next week with another local act of your liking, so let’s keep putting talent where it belongs: in the Local Radar! Keep on sending me your submissions to maria@theaquarian.com, and I will continue my quest and journey to find the hottest talent this area has to offer! Cheers friends, see you next week!