ARTISTS
Featured Artists
The Gilfords, Rock Covers
The Gilfords are NYC’s premier 80s rock cover band. No shtick, just an all-out party. They’ve spent the past 15+ yrs blowing roofs off bars & turning parties into unforgettable nights.
The Rudie Crew, Reggae/WorldMusic
El Husey and Dan Dulin, upon leaving the Ska band Skinnerbox NYC, formed a new band dedicated to Reggae and Ska with Dancehall vocal styling’s. The Rudie Crew began rehearsing at Ludlow Street Studios in NYC. They knew right from the start that a new and exciting sound had been hatched. The Rudie Crew soon released their debut album “Invasion” and followed up with “Ride” the title track was used on the TV series “Burn Notice". Then came “This is Skragga” which is their newest release. Since the band formed they have played the East coast, and beyond continuously, including The Warp tour, The Montreal Ska festival, and numerous other Venues, opening for The Wailers, The English Beat, Bad Manners, The Selector, and The Toasters.
The Rudie Crew are currently preparing to record their fourth full-length Album. With a new fire burning “The Rudie Crew” rejuvenated and ready to bring the world Skragga a combination of Reggae, Ska, and Dancehall. On horns El Husey, Tenor and, Soprano Saxophone, Dan Dulin Trumpet, and Pablo Rodriguez Trombone, spicing up the music with their intoxicating sound. Anthony Juggla Minervino AKA (Juggwise) twisting up fast style firing lyrics with his unique combination of Mc style, toasting chatts, in a Jamaican, UK , US style... Engelbert Ramos, spicing it up with his sweet melodic vocals. This all comes together with the very gifted Ciro Medina on rhythm and lead guitar, Robert Mansfield on Keyboards, so melodic and animated, the ever so talented Steve Capecci on bass, with his heavy intoxicating bass lines, Ramsey Norman drummer extraordinary, holding down the groovy pumping rhythms, to create this amazing sound.
A-Z - Bauer Center, Riverside & Main St Stages
80 BPM, Rock Covers
Formed in 2019, 80BPM is a dynamic and energetic rock cover band that has been captivating audiences worldwide with their electrifying performances. From classic rock anthems to the latest chart-topping hits, the band delivers a powerful and unforgettable experience for music enthusiasts of all ages. Each member brings their unique talent and passion to the stage, creating a harmonious blend that keeps audiences hooked from the first note to the last.
Since their inception, 80BPM has achieved significant milestones in the music scene. They have graced the stages of renowned venues like The Stone Pony in Asbury Park, The Bitter End in NYC, The Whiskey A-Go-Go in LA, and numerous other iconic locations.
From timeless classics by legendary rock bands to contemporary chart-toppers, 80BPM's diverse repertoire appeals to a wide range of music enthusiasts. With their own unique spin on each cover, the band injects fresh energy into well-loved favorites, turning every show into an unforgettable experience.
Acoustic Mayhem, Electric Rock and Dance Party
Spanning both coasts of the U.S., Acoustic Mayhem has been exploring the roots of the American Sound since 1999. Founders Zachary Green (guitar/strings/vocals) and Michael Reisman (guitar/keys/percussion/vocals) along with longtime collaborator David Williams (percussion/vocals) offer a varied set of folk, bluegrass, country and rock 'n' roll numbers. With over 200 original compositions and covers, Acoustic Mayhem offers a unique take on the traditional songwriter motif featuring tight, simple arrangements and three part harmonies.
Agni, Classic Rock
A burning passion for classic rock and heavy metal brought together Priya (vocals), Abhisheka (lead guitar/vocals), Kush (rhythm guitar/keyboard), Chetan (bass), Charu (keyboard) and Vinu (drums) to form Agni (meaning Fire).
Making their Rocktoberfest debut covering hits from Pink Floyd to Guns N’ Roses, they are looking forward to setting the stage on fire!
Andre Moriak, Singer/Songwriter
Andre is a singer/songwriter from Mountainside, New Jersey. He is a student studying at Seton Hall University and hopes to continue pursing music after graduating in December. Many of his inspirations come from artists like Zach Bryan, Johnny Cash and Elvis
Autumn Jones, Soulful/Alternative/Singer-Songwriter Music
Autumn Jones is a singer-songwriter from Maplewood, New Jersey, and a recent graduate from Berklee College of Music in Boston, MA. The soulful R&B she creates is an expression of her life experiences as told through her stories and in each of her songs, which are available on all major platforms. She has had success performing in the Boston area at venues such as City Winery, Ryles Jazz Club, Midway Cafe and Hard Rock Cafe. She's also had recent success in New York City, New Jersey and Spain with her performances at Silvana in Harlem, Rockwood Music Hall in Manhattan, Radio City in Valencia and the annual Maplewoodstock festival in NJ. Autumn has also had the amazing opportunity to open for R&B Artists Vivian Green and Jon B. at the acclaimed South Orange Performing Art Center. Her recent release, "Bittersweet" has won a Tracks Music Award for Best R&B Song and another for Best Studio Sound in 2021.As a proud lyricist, she believes that the combination of word and music are extremely powerful, and hopes that her songs and lyrics move others as much as they have moved her. Her love for performing has shaped her into the confident show woman that she is today, and she cannot wait to get back on the stages in front of live audiences once again.
Big Mamou, Cosmic Cajun, Zydeco, Country
Big Mamou was formed in what could be described as a cosmic Cajun and country collision, smack in the middle of Montclair, New Jersey. While being dragged by her “har” through the Lincoln Tunnel in search of bluer skies, Sopranos and more square footage, country singer Julianne Ausum Fenhagen with brute husband/upright bassist Jim Fenhagen heard a bellowing lonesome strain of the bayou and stumbled upon a tall skinny guy in a big hat playing sweet, soulful accordion … none other than Cajun aficionado, John Sherman. Soon after, the three joined forces and just west of the Meadowland swamp, Big Mamou was born. John Sherman was steeped deep in a Louisiana musical stew, serving it up in several NYC based bands (Jole Blonde, The Zephyrs). John also toured with legendary British guitarist/vocalist Richard Thompson. Julianne toured with rocker Walter Egan (Magnet and Steel) playing original country music in a band called The Wild Ponies. Julianne and Jim rocked together in an alt country band, The DCvers playing honkytonks from Nashville to NYC . Rounding out the sound is ageless but never timeless drummer Billy Loos (Her Vanished Grace), Michael Levine (Will Rogers Follies, The Trisonics), on heart melting pedal steel and red hot guitar, and most recent stellar addition, Fred Parcells (Black 47) on the very slippery trombone.
Big Romance, Classic Rock
BIG ROMANCE brings the classic rock tunes you know and love to northern New Jersey with sweet vocal harmonies. We are honored and delighted to take part in Rocktoberfest!
BIG ROMANCE is: Diane Tso, vocals, mandolin and keyboards, Stan Tso, vocals, guitar and bass, Eric Thoroman, vocals, bass and keyboards, and Shu M. Lee, percussion.
Cats Will Play, Classic Rock
With feel-good classic rock, reggae, funk and blues, Cats Will Play brings back memories from the times in your life when music mattered. This earthy Short Hills and SOMA-based band features singer Matt Stone, lead guitarist Dave Diamond, rhythm guitarist David Garfinkle, bassist Dave Gardner and drummer Anders Fransson.
Chris Pastore, Singer/Songwriter
For me songwriting is a constant, a daily routine, interactions, daydreams, struggles and jubilation, love, fate and sometimes just a good hook and a solid groove. Some take years to cultivate and others come in minutes. The words and music can intertwine so simply like pieces of a puzzle when finished, stories like little voyages, then subject to the listeners interpretations and mood. My influences are too many to list. I've been writing, performing and recording for 25 years in various groups in the northeast.... studied blues and jazz with some great teachers and hit the Baltimore scene right out of college fronting and touring with the group Fat Apple in the late 90's which gave me the chance to meet many amazing musicians along the way. Recently embarking on my first album in over a decade titled "Turn the Music Up Loud", a compilation of unrecorded older songs and many new ones. This release features some of the best players and friends that I have ever had the opportunity to share the stage with. Crafted and Recorded at the renown Wrightway Studios under the care and guidance of Steve Wright, this album has far surpassed all of my expectations and invigorated my passion for songwriting and performance. Enjoy!
Distortion, Rock/Metal
Hi all, we are a rock and metal band called Distortion! Distortion plays mostly covers by bands such as Metallica, Rush, System of A Down, and Van Halen and also plays a few originals . Follow our Instagram page: @distortion_band_official to see our upcoming gigs, videos, and originals! We feature:
Akshra Yagnik on vocals,
Colin Quigley on keys and vocals,
Jake Leyzerovich on guitar,
Jaime Dilworth on guitar,
Alex Baker on bass,
Nolan DeCicco on drums
Gabriel Rivera, Indie Rock
Gabriel Rivera is a rising indie-rock artist based in North Jersey. He writes, records all of the instruments, and produces all of his own music. His inspirations range from artists such as Pink Floyd and Led Zeppelin to Mac Demarco and Arctic Monkeys.
Jason Didner and the Drive, Jersey Rock
Montclair-based singer/songwriter Jason Didner considers his original Jersey rock anthems to be conversations with the audience. Just as in everyday life, these conversations are, at turns, heartfelt and comical. “Salt and Sand” carries a message of hope Jason and his wife needed during their lean early years balancing jobs, creative pursuits and higher education. Conversely, “You Can’t Get There from Here in Jersey” mocks the shared experience of navigating the Garden State’s confusing highway interchanges.
Asbury Park Press listed “You Can’t Get There from Here in Jersey” among the 10 best songs of 2022 by an NJ artist. The Uncle Floyd Radio Show and National Public Radio have aired the funny song on multiple occasions. Jason found a home performing this and other songs live at Outpost in the Burbs in Montclair, opening for Willie Nile in spring 2023.
Now joining in the conversation are Jason’s new band “Jason Didner and the Drive,” bringing this singer/songwriter’s true vision of his tunes to life. Although Jason had recorded all the instrumental and vocal tracks for the bulk of his last three albums, his live shows from this repertoire have been solo acoustic. Amelia Chan (bass) and Leah Fox (drums) bring energy and eagerness to help tell the stories contained in Jason’s songs. Amelia is an alum of School of Rock Montclair and enjoys building guitar effects pedals thanks to her electrical engineering education in New York. Leah founded Montclair Art Museum’s house band “Innes and the Brushes” after taking up drums as her new “pandemic skill.”
This lineup makes its debut at Rocktoberfest 2023.
Livingston Leo, Rock
Lenny Meranus is an artist who works in two different media – music and barbecue. The 1982 Livingston High School graduate is a self-professed “Livingston guy, through and through.” He has lived here for nearly his entire life – since 1968. His band, Livingston Leo, named for the town he loves, brings together his passion for both music and barbecue. “I tell people, I write songs about ‘love and barbecue, and loving barbecue,’ ”he laughs. “You think I’m kidding?” He’s not. He’s got six barbecue grills lined up along the side of his house. His favorite thing to grill is chicken, which has earned him the nickname “Chicken Genius” from his friends. (“Chicken Genius” is also the name of a popular Livingston Leo song.) “If I’m not working or taking care of my kids, I like to sing the blues. Oh, and barbecue!” he says. Meranus’ artistic roots run in the family. His father, Arthur, is a fine arts painter. His mom, Phyllis, is a life-long singer, dancer and actress whose name is synonymous with the Livingston Community Players. Meranus himself has been playing guitar since the age of 13, when he received one for his bar mitzvah. “lot of the guys I played with became my earliest musical influences,” he notes. These include his cousin, Brad Stern, and his friend, Michael Karpas, who both took music lessons, then passed what they had learned on to Lenny. Although he has a full time profession, his heart is, and always will be, with his music. And his grills. Did he mention he loves barbecue?
Millburn Moksha, Bollywood & Classic Hindi Covers
Local band, Millburn Moksha, are coming back, for the third year, to perform at Rocktoberfest. The band has grown in size and popularity. The musicians of the group come together to play covers for popular Hindi music. The band features:
Abhisheka Jain on vocals and guitar,
Deepa Krishnan, Savita Natekar & Priya Shivani on vocals,
Kushagra Saxena on guitar,
Chetan Sharma on bass,
Vinu Satchit on drums,
Charu Goel on keys
Mrs. Eller and The Fellers, Rock & Country Covers
New Jersey based trio Stephanie Eller, Michael Reisman, and Zachary Greene are the soulful components creating the unforgettable harmonies of “Mrs. Eller and The Fellers.” Covers ranging from country to rock and folk paired with original songs create an eclectic set list producing a genuine sound. Rotating guitar, drums, mandolin, and harmonica paired with vocal interest, the trio draws crowds in North Jersey venues and parties.
The Parkers, Alternative/Electronic Pop/Rock
The Parkers are a grungy synth-pop group with anthems of disenfranchisement, burning missives to toxic love, and searing social commentary. Blond and doe-eyed, sisters Anya and Kate Parker-Lentz exude a detached suburban cool, but in reality are tirelessly driven musicians. Propelling the sisters forward live is the dynamically explosive drummer, Henry Kane.
The Parkers have released singles “15 Again” featuring rapper Marcaux and “AI Mind” following their debut EP – a collaboration with a variety of producers such as Ido Zmishlany (Shawn Mendes, Demi Lovato, The Chainsmokers, Camila Cabello), Julie Hardy and Mike MacAllister (Meg Mac, Donna Missal).
Rhythm Tolee, Punjabi, Folk, Bhangra
Rhythm Tolee is an award-winning New York City based Punjabi band with members from music boroughs of New York and New Jersey. "Tolee" means "A free spirited group of people" in Punjabi language. This is exactly what Rhythm Tolee is, a group of free-spirited artists with Rhythm. Rhythm Tolee performs a wide variety of songs by mixing Punjabi Folk and Sufi music with hip tunes.
Ryan Wang, Opera, a capella, acoustic guitar
Ryan Wang is a sixth grader from Short Hills. At the age of twelve, he is a star singer in Millburn, NJ and neighboring towns. Ryan has been decorated with medals from numerous singing competitions including a first place medal in the American Protégé Vocal Competition two years in a row. He has performed multiple times at Carnegie Hall. Recently Ryan performed on China Central Television. Ryan also enjoys participating in his school's musical and is passionate about helping others with his singing talent.
Sanjana Krishnan, Acoustic & A Capella
Sanjana Krishnan, a sophomore in Millburn High School, has been performing since the age of 5. She enjoys performing in musicals and has been taking voice lessons for many years. She is back singing at Rocktoberfest for the second year while also emceeing the second stage like she did her first time.
School of Rock, Classic Rock/Hard Rock
Our Street Team is the top tier of our Performance Program, representing our hardest working and most advanced students. They have additional performance opportunities over the course of the year and an annual Summer Tour. Street Team students participate in weekly rehearsals led by our Music Director, working to perfect an array of songs, culminating in performances on local stages, festivals, fundraisers, events and regional tours.
Annually our Street Team rocks for great causes, raising thousands of dollars for organizations like New Eyes for the Needy via Kids Rock for Vision concerts that SoR Chatham sponsors, and the Crohn's and Colitis Foundation of America.
Street Team is a precursor to the School of Rock National AllStars program. Five of our SoR Chatham Street Team musicians earned a spot on the 2019 National All Star teams, touring the country, playing stages like BB Kings and Webster Hall in NYC, House of Blues, Hard Rock Cafe, and Lollapalooza Festival.
Side Buckle, Rock
A life-long passion for rock n’ roll brought together the members of Side Buckle - Michelle (Vocals), David (Vocals/Guitar), Peter (Lead Guitar), Giorgio (Bass), Vinu (Drums) and Matt (Harp, Keyboards). Side Buckle made their Rocktoberfest debut last year. They have continued to perform in various venues since then and now are ready to rock the Rocktoberfest audience for the 2nd year in a row!
Side Buckle covers a wide variety of decades and music styles – from Cream to REM.
So i Heard, Music School, Kid Rock
Sean Killary and Sam Morgan founded So i Heard Music based on the principle that music lessons should be fun, and taught using modern technology.
The original location in Millburn, NJ opened its doors in July of 2013 and quickly became the talk of the town. By 2018, So i Heard Music has grown to serve more than 1,300 students per month, and all of our students have seen the benefit of our unique style of music lesson.
Students can learn how to play an instrument, read, write, and record music, all within a fun, safe, and high-tech environment built for K-12. We teach beginner through advanced piano lessons, keyboard lessons, drum lessons, percussion lessons, voice lessons, guitar lessons, songwriting lessons, bass lessons, violin lessons and more in technology-equipped studios that foster creative expression.
Soulfege, A Capella
Our very own award-winning A Cappella group from Millburn High School, Soulfege, has appeared on Lifetime's national television series Pitch Slapped, performed for the NJ Delegates at the 2016 Democratic National Convention and various venues and competitions since 2008. Check out their new album, “blue”, available on all platforms! Soulfege loves having the opportunity to perform for the community and share their passion for music with others!
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Stuff Bros, Acoustic/Electric/Funky/Eclectic
Each Brother adds his own special something to the musical stew: jazz influences, classical training, original songwriting, urban rocking, country-fried jangles and world beats. By popular demand they're freckling the Northeast together in venues large and small. Whether for the thousands at festive Maplewoodstock, the hundreds at cozy SOPAC and regional townships, or the dozens upon dozens at local clubs and house shows, the STUFF BROS live sound keeps people moving and spirits flowing. The STUFF BROS bring their own recipe for rootsy goodness to classic and unexpected tunes, guaranteed to make you shake n' shimmy. Acoustic, electric, funkified, eclectic.
The Thorns, Rock Covers
Lead Vocals: Kaitlin Round
Vocals & Guitar: Jon Cespedes
Vocals & Guitar: Brad Kaegi
Vocals & Acoustic Guitar: James Smith
Bass: George Musser
Drums: Phil Brojan
A cover band that plays a wide variety of Rock genres including Country, Alternative, Classic, Pop, Punk, Latin. We are known to make unique arrangements to the original versions as well as do unexpected fun matchups. We believe that playing live music is the perfect outlet to have fun and unwind from our daily routines. We do our best to make sure our audiences are having a great time, by playing their favorite tunes and making them feel they are part of our show. We also love to give back to the community by volunteering our time and music to different fundraising events. Finally, we like to mix it up from time to time, by inviting other musician friends to play with us and experience what we love doing.
Valencia School of Music, Rock Covers
Valencia School of Music located in Westfield, NJ has been bringing the importance of music to the community for almost ten years since 2014. Led by Jose Valencia and Kelly Bennett, the school focuses on developing students individually as growing musicians while creating a community where students can grow and learn in collaborative environments.
Valencia Music students have been accepted into prestigious music programs including Berklee School of Music in Boston, Belmont and Vanderbilt Universities in Nashville, The University of Cincinnati, The University of Chicago, Baldwin Wallace and more.
Valencia School of Music offers private lessons as well as ensemble classes for rock bands and more from age 4 up through 18. Private lessons and group classes range from KidzRock, the program for 4-7 year olds, through Rock-U Sr., the program for high school aged students, and helps develop skills in young as well as adult musicians that will last a lifetime.
Whiskey & Sugar, Acoustic Duo
Whiskey & Sugar unites the talents of singer/guitarist Matt Stone of the Cats Will Play Band and soulful vocalist Jess Frank from South Orange, NJ. This acoustic duo offers a captivating blend of American roots music that spans decades. They deliver rich harmonies in a repertoire ranging from '70s classics to contemporary hits. Their musical chemistry bridges the gap between past and present, offering an unforgettable auditory experience. Whiskey & Sugar's soul-stirring performances are not to be missed.
A-Z - Rose Garden
Amelia Sabel, Violinist and Vocalist
Amelia is a 5th grader at Washington School. She enjoys playing the violin and piano, singing, and writing and composing original music. This is her third year playing the violin with the New Jersey Youth Symphony and her first year singing with the New Jersey Youth Choir. Aside from music, Amelia loves playing baseball, reading and her new puppy, Hershey Kisses.
Ari Crofton, Vocalist
Ari Crofton is a 13 year old 8th grader at Millburn Middle School. She enjoys participating in the School’s Musicals along with other after school activities. Outside of school, Ari likes to read, paint, and spend time with her friends. She is excited to sing in Millburn’s Rocktoberfest for the first time!
Arman Ozdemir, Guitarist
Arman is an acoustic/electric guitarist and drummer from New Jersey. He has also spent the past 2 summers in Berklee to collaborate with other musicians and hone his skills. He pulls inspiration from bands such as Megadeath, Ozzy Osbourne and Avenged Sevenfold.
Dara Diamant, Sound Bath with Singing Bowls
A sound bath from Dara Diamant of Restorative Reiki and Sound Healing is a great way to start the day!
Dara specializes in providing deep relaxation through Reiki and Sound Healing to promote energy balance and help create a healing environment from within. Dara will be playing authentic 7-metal singing bowls from Nepal. The therapeutic vibrations guide our brains and bodies on a journey to healing, contentment and rejuvenation.
Dara Diamant is a certified Reiki Master Teacher, certified Sound Healer, empath, intuitive, musician, writer and mom of three. Dara offers private, semi-private, group or corporate sessions. Learn more about Dara and find her contact info on her website.
Leo Cole, Guitarist and Vocalist
From tapping utensils while dining to staying up late playing his guitar, Leo loves to make and share music. Leo has been described as having an instinctive sense of rhythm rare for his age. Leo is excited to perform at his first of hopefully many Roctoberfests.
Mi Zhou, Ghuzang
Mi is a member of Millburn Short Hills Chinese Association (MSHCA) and she loves art. Mi will be playing the Ghuzang which is a Chinese plucked zither.
Purab Mehra, Flutist
Purab Mehra is in the 7th grade this year and is a flutist.
Samairah Singh, Vocalist
Samaira Singh and I am an arts enthusiast. Music is something that makes her really happy and she have been at it for as long as she can remember. She love the arts and dreams of continuing to pursue it for years to come.
Sanvi Chaini, Violinist
Sanvi Chaini is an eighth grader at Millburn Middle School. She has been playing the violin for the past four years. In 2023, she was accepted into the North Jersey Regional Orchestra for the concert in March and she was the concertmaster in the MMS spring orchestra concert. She enjoys playing the violin a lot and she hopes to spread her love for classical music through this performance!
Sarah Mayfield, Violinist
Sarah Mayfield is an 8th grader attending MMS, who has been playing the violin for 5 years. She enjoys playing with her dog and spending time with friends in her free time. She is also excited to get to play in front of an audience for the first time in a while.
Siana Sharma, Vocalist
Siana has always had a natural passion for music, singing, dance and art from a young age and has been professionally learning since she was four years old. She has participated in many competitions and has performed on stages like Carnegie Hall, Baruch Hall, and twice at Papermill Playhouse for the New Voices show. At Rocktoberfest, she will be singing “Can you feel the love tonight” from the Lion King.
Tea Envy, Acoustic Duo
Tea Envy is a NJ-based duo created by Tommy Keith (guitar) and Vivian Murphy (vocals) in January 2023. The duo started their musical career together playing covers at open mic nights across Bergen County, but soon thereafter began performing original songs. Their songs are born from shared experiences, heartaches, and dreams. They pour their souls into every lyric and chord, creating music that resonates deeply with their audience. Themes of romance and the quest for self-discovery permeate their original compositions, offering listeners a glimpse into their intimate world. You can find Tea Envy on Instagram: @teaenvy.music