2025 PERFORMERS
Rocktoberfest 2025 is pleased to introduce our headlinder for this year:
COLDPLAY TRIBUTE BAND
FIX YOU
Fix You - Coldplay Tribute Band
Bauer Center Stage - 8:15pm
We are ‘Fix You,’ a tribute to one of the finest bands in the world, Coldplay. We don’t view ourselves as another “Tribute” band on the bill or an act of imitation. Instead, we pour ourselves into every song & performance out of our own genuine love for Coldplay & their music. The raw energy and emotion we devote to each song is sincere & we’re insanely humbled to have this opportunity to bring this to live stages all across the world. We strive to leave no stone unturned for a well rounded experience covering Coldplay’s extensive body of work, ranging from Parachutes to Prospekt’s March. To put it simply, it’s Fix You’s goal to bring the greatest glimpse into the Coldplay experience and we hope to translate to our audiences the elation it gives us to play their amazing work.
Blue Lightning - Blues / Rock
Bauer Center Stage - 12:05pm
Blues Rock power trio along with a harmonica/singer. Roots in traditional blues as well as classic rock and more contemporary blues rock songs.
Catalina - Alternative R&B / HipHop
Bauer Center Stage - 7:45pm
I create music for those of substance that may not always be able to put their feelings into words but have something to say. I thrive off of being different and creating new lanes for myself! I want people to know they do not need to fit into a certain image to feel heard and seen. It is okay to just be who you are, it is okay to be vulnerable, it is okay to love how you were born. My brand stands for just doing what you love, finding a way to express yourself, and running with it; whether people like it or not!
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Higher Ground - Classic Rock, Country, and Gospel Covers
Bauer Center Stage - 4:15pm
Higher Ground is a cover band that blends the best of classic rock, some country, and a touch of gospel into one unforgettable sound. Known for their powerhouse vocal harmonies, dual lead guitars, and a rock-solid rhythm section, this band delivers a high-impact live experience that moves the soul and gets the crowd going. Higher Ground brings timeless music to life with passion, precision, and a whole lot of heart.
Jessica Layton - National Anthem
Bauer Center Stage - 12:00pm
Jessica Layton moved to Short Hills with her husband Andrew Catalon and son, CJ, in 2016 so she could pursue her career in tv news in NYC. A graduate of Syracuse University’s S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications, she is currently a news anchor for NBC / MSNBC. Her other passion in life is music. Jessica began singing professionally when she was 10 years old - recording radio jingles and children’s music. In addition to also working as a cantor at St Rose of Lima Church and singing at weddings and funerals, she’s performed the National Anthem at major sporting and political events. She is thrilled to be singing the National Anthem for the second time at Rocktoberfest and enjoying Emcee duties while her son CJ has fun in the Kid Zone!
Local Heroes - Country Rock, Rock, Alt-Country, Americana
Bauer Center Stage - 5:55pm
The Local Heroes band hails from South Orange and Maplewood and features the powerhouse vocals of Charlie Pollock and Diane Davis. With dueling lead vocals and soaring harmonies, Charlie and Diane deliver a unique spin on both classic and new tunes. Charlie and Diane are both veterans of Broadway, TV, and film and are backed by a band consisting of local touring and studio musicians. The band has performed at Maplewoodstock, SOPAC's Summer Nights at Floods' Hill, and various venues throughout Northern NJ. In addition, The Local Heroes are the backing band for SOMA Rocks -- A Singer Showcase. This annual event showcases the amazing singing talent from the SOMA community, while raising money for local causes. For each SOMA Rocks event, The Local Heroes band invites its talented neighbors and members of the SOMA community to be guest vocalists and all proceeds benefit the Columbia High School Music Parents Association.
Bauer Center Stage - 3:30pm
Looi is a Chinese-Malaysian American singer, songwriter, and producer based in New York. Her debut EP, Western Therapy, blends indie, alt-rock, electronic, and neo-soul into a rich soundscape that explores identity, emotional inheritance, and intergenerational memory. Known for her sharp lyricism and genre-fluid style, she’s built a cult following through private demos and electric live shows. Looi is backed by a seasoned 5-piece band she’s performed with for years, playing together at some of NYC’s most beloved venues including Mercury Lounge, The Sultan Room, and The Cutting Room. Originally from Millburn (Class of 2016), she’s excited to return home and take the stage at Rocktoberfest!
Millburn Moksha with Agni - Bollywood / Classic Hindi Covers
Bauer Center Stage - 1:30pm
Millburn Moksha was formed in 2022 because of Rocktoberfest when members of Rocktoberfest committee wanted a local Bollywood band and reached out to like-minded artists. Ever since the debut in 2022, the band has performed on the main stage and also performed in other venues. This local band has many followers and is looking forward to performing again this year.
Bauer Center Stage - 3:00pm
We've got spirit, yes we do! We've got spirit, how about you?
MMM Bollywood Dancers - Dance Troupe
Bauer Center Stage - 1:15pm
To be announced
Shark Hat - Rock Infused Funk n' Country Blues
Bauer Center Stage - 2:30pm
Shark Hat has been a fixture on the New York/New Jersey music scene for over twenty years. With their polished, tight sound, they impress each time they take the stage. Finely crafted originals are complemented by a sprinkling of well-chosen covers that serve to draw the audience in and keep them engaged and dancing.
Side Buckle - Classic / Alternative Rock
Bauer Center Stage - 12:45pm
A life-long passion for rock n’ roll brought together the members of Side Buckle - Michelle (Lead Vocals), Peter (Lead Guitar), Tom (Bass), Vinu (Drums) and Matt (Harp, Keyboards). Side Buckle made their Rocktoberfest debut two years ago. They have continued to perform in various venues since then including the Racquets Club (Short Hills), Bull n’ Bear Brewery (Summit), Berlin NYC and the Delancey (NYC). Side Buckle covers a wide variety of decades and music styles – from the Allman Brothers to REM.
Toad and the Stooligans - Hip-hop / Funk / Jazz
Bauer Center Stage - 6:55pm and Boxcar After Party 9pm-Midnight
Fantastic mix of hip hop, rock and jazz. They bring the creative lyrics of hip hop and the awesome beat of a band to make something unlike what you have heard before.
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Whiskey & Sugar - 70s to Present Day Covers
Bauer Center Stage - 5:00pm
Whiskey & Sugar formed in September 2023 when a mutual friend introduced Matt Stone and Jess Frank—and the musical chemistry was instant. Since then, their duo, trio, and full band have played 50+ shows across NJ, from beer halls to festivals and weddings. Matt’s soulful vocals and guitar blend perfectly with Jess’s rich harmonies and crowd-pleasing energy.
Their setlist spans classic rock, Americana, 90s alt-rock, guilty-pleasure pop, singalongs, and acoustic takes on current hits. Every performance is designed to get the crowd singing—and even dancing—along.
Their mission: to bring people together through great music, mixing familiar favorites with unexpected gems.
Andaaz Dance Club - Bollywood Dance
Riverside Stage - 4:00pm
Andaaz Dance Club is Millburn High School’s premier Bollywood dance group, whose members have backgrounds in a variety of styles, including Bollywood, hip hop, kathak, and bharatanatyam. They have performed at many venues including MHS annual winter and spring concerts, the International Festival, and at Six Flags Dance Fest.
Riverside Stage - 3:20pm
House Band is the top tier of the School of Rock Chatham Performance Program, representing some of our hardest working and most advanced students. Students accepted into House Band have additional performance opportunities over the course of the season, in addition to their Performance show rehearsals and lessons. Some of these opportunities include local events, community shows with other House Bands, and summer touring. Our House Band has played such venues as Starland Ballroom, and has participated at events like Summerfest in Milwaukee, WI.
Our School of Rock Chatham House Band performs rock and related genres from a wide variety of artists and decades, representing the full spectrum of School of Rock's award winning and patented curriculum.
Crooked Clock - Classic, Pop Rock Covers
Riverside Stage - 1:40pm
We’re a three-piece high school cover band from Oratory Prep in New Jersey. The band features Bruno Pastore (lead vocalist and guitarist with over 7 years of experience), Andrew Hiploit (drummer with 15+ years behind the kit), and Matthew Donohue (bassist with over 5 years of playing). Our top priority is getting the crowd on their feet—we bring high energy, loud volume, and a setlist that always delivers. Every performance is about creating a vibe, and we’ve done it time and time again. I have attended Rocktoberfest multiple times in the past as an attendee; however, now with the band, we plan to perform to our best to maximize the amount of fun provided.
Dizzy Lizard - Classic / Pop Rock
Riverside Stage - 4:10pm
Dizzy Lizard is a local high school aged cover band from Chatham. They play a mix of songs from the 70’s, 80’s, 90’s, and today — everything from classic rock to current hits — and we aim to keep the crowd engaged and having a great time.
Riverside Stage - 5:40pm
An original, genre-bending pop/rock, NJ-based, female-fronted septet with catchy, singable tunes and backed by a brassy horn section. The band includes members Alishia Taiping (lead vocals, bass) Dan Pieraccini (bass, vocals), Peter Durning (guitar, harmonica) AJ Zienowicz (drums, vocals), Dan Landers (saxophones) , John Sequiera (trumpet and trombone), and Amy Elise (keys and vocals).
MHS K-Pop Dance Crew - K-Pop Dance
Riverside Stage - 2:00pm
We are the Millburn High School Kpop Dance Crew! We dance to a variety of different Kpop dances from groups like BoyNextDoor, Le Sserafim, TWICE and more!
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Riverside Stage - 2:45pm
Pumpkin Band is a Chinese-language pop and soft rock band based in Livingston, NJ. Formed in the spring of 2019, the band features Bohan as the lead singer and guitarist, Gary on guitar, Mark on drums, and Sepp on bass. With a dynamic mix of original songs and popular covers, Pumpkin Band brings warmth and energy to every performance.
Rooted in cultural pride and musical passion, Pumpkin Band has built a strong presence across the tri-state area. They have performed at events such as Livingston Chinese Culture Day, the Millburn Lunar New Year Festival, as well as in senior centers, churches, schools, and charity events throughout NJ, PA & CT. Their heartfelt, bilingual performances connect with diverse audiences, making them a favorite at community and cultural events. Pumpkin Band continues to share their love of music with sincerity, bringing people together through sound and song.
Sanjana Krishnan - Acoustic / A capella
Riverside Stage - 12:50pm
Sanjana Krishnan, a student at 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 fourth year!
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Riverside Stage - 5:00pm
Hailing from New Jersey, this dynamic 4-piece band brings decades of music to life with a fresh, high-energy twist.
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With a lineup featuring Jenn on vocals, Melissa on guitar/bass, Dan on drums, and Adam on keys, they cover an eclectic mix of songs from the 60s to today—spanning pop, rock, indie, singer-songwriter favorites, country, and more. Whether it’s a classic anthem or a modern hit, their versatile sound and engaging performances make them a favorite for live shows,
private events, and local venues alike. Rooted in musical passion and powered by a love for timeless tunes, this band is all about delivering feel-good music that moves every generation.
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So I Heard - Music School / Kid Rock
Riverside Stage - 12:00pm
Students are inspired to play, read, write and record music at So i Heard Music's Millburn studio. The So i Heard Music mindset centers around the fact that music is everywhere! Not only is music a standalone art-form, but it plays an important role in TV shows, movies, video games, and countless other forms of media.
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So i Heard Music recognizes music as a form of self-expression, and aims to help open that door to expression and creativity without the barriers of boredom or inaccessibility. Their goal is to teach everyone how to access music in a fun, engaging manner through private instruction, songwriting, and production.
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Riverside Stage - 4:35pm
Soulfege is Millburn High School’s student-led a cappella group, established in 2008. A group of passionate students dedicated to music, Soulfege is proud to have performed not only at local venues but on an international level. Yearly, Soulfege competes in national competitions such as Sing Strong and ICHSA. We hope you enjoy our sets as much as we love performing them!
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Studio F - Pop Rock / Classic Rock
Riverside Stage - 6:20pm
Studio F covers popular bands such as The Beatles, Queen, Pink Floyd, Eric Clapton, Cream, Santana, Lynryd Skynryd, Dire Straits, Elton John, Billy Joel, The Eagles, Elvis Presley and more.
Prithwish Dev (PD) is on Lead vocals, keyboards. PD is also the lead vocalist for Them Clones an original alternative rock band that has been Channel V's Jack Daniel's Best Rock Band. Gaurav Maraballi is on Bass and keyboards. Gaurav is a professional musician who has been a composer for several jingles and has played on many leading composers. Vijay Tolpadi, lovingly called Slash, is our virtuoso guitarist. He plays the likes of Clapton, Santana, GnR, Floyd with perfection & ease. VVS Prasad is a classic rock drummer who can bring to life Ginger Baker, Ringo Starr and Nick Mason with equal ease. Pranay Agrawal is on lead vocals and rhythm guitar.
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Riverside Stage - 7:00pm
A phenomenal band whose talent knows no bounds. These young musicians showcase their versatility by effortlessly playing multiple instruments, leaving audiences awestruck with their skillful performances. Their unique sense of style shines through, making them true trendsetters at such a young age. The Still Unknown draws inspiration from legendary bands like Nirvana, Foo Fighters, and AC/DC, embracing a diverse range of influences that blend into their distinctive sound. These young rockstars are destined to leave an indelible mark on the music world, captivating audiences and breaking barriers as they rise to fame. Keep an eye on The Still Unknown as they carve their path to greatness in the world of music.
W.A.B.A.M. - 80's & 90's Rock
Riverside Stage - 1:10pm
The band is a makeup of 4 close friends from millburn and a friend from outside town. 2 of the players have been jamming together since pre k.
They are led by a multi talented manager who can step in to play any part of a song. They love what they do and currently performs once a month at Ethan and the bean in Morristown.
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Ayla & Izzy - Acoustic / A capella
Boxcar Stage - 1:00pm
Ayla and Izzy are rising seniors at Columbia High School. The duo's performances are centered around sweet harmonies, producing a unique spin on classic and contemporary rock and folk songs. They have been performing professionally either as a duo or individually for the past couple of years, including gigs at Village Hall and the Under Cover Music Festival (performing Beatles songs). In addition, Ayla has performed at various venues including Maplewoodstock, Porchfest, and Crossroads.
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High Ridge Runners - Blue-grassy Roots Rock
Boxcar Stage - Afterparty 9pm-Midnight
The HighRidge Runners are a NJ-based musical trio rooted in bluegrass, Americana and outlaw country.
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Boxcar Stage - 12:00pm
Içosery is a high-energy rock cover band made up of three close friends—Joss, Lawrence, and Rebecca—who first connected through their shared love of music back as students at Green Brook Middle School. Now attending Watchung Hills Regional High School, Rebecca and Lawrence are rising sophomores, while Joss is heading into her junior year.
With Rebecca on drums/keys/trumpet, Lawrence on bass, and Joss handling vocals and guitar, Içosery brings a fresh take to classic and modern rock hits. Their chemistry on stage reflects years of friendship and musical growth, and they’re quickly building a name for themselves with their tight performances and passion for live music.
Jason Didner - Original Jersey Rock
Boxcar Stage - 3:00pm
A Jason Didner and the Drive performance is a conversation between band and audience. "Too Many Tabs Open" becomes a call-and-response where everyone gets to vent about our constantly-wired world, along with Leah Fox on drums and Alyssa Menes on bass.
Jason, the band’s singer/songwriter, has been on NPR with his song "You Can't Get There from Here in Jersey," which the Asbury Park Press listed in its top 10 songs of 2022 by NJ artists. Jason opened for Willie Nile at the Outpost in the Burbs concert series in spring 2023. The band then debuted at Millburn Rocktoberfest.
Boxcar Stage - 2:00pm
Forged in the vibrant music scene of northern New Jersey, this surf rock trio has spent seven years on a shared journey of musical exploration, driven by a deep love for vintage surf tones. Lead guitarist Alex Bell, a classically trained musician with over 20 years of performance experience, captures the nostalgic essence of surf rock with his timeless guitar tones. Sixteen-year-old drummer Arnav Jain brings electrifying energy and natural rhythm, serving as the heartbeat of their dynamic performances. On bass, Sudhir anchors the sound with rhythmic precision, infusing a touch of his Indian heritage. Together, they deliver a fresh yet classic surf rock vibe, captivating audiences with their tight bond and distinctive sound.
Midnight Winds - Jazz - Rock Fusion
Boxcar Stage - 5:00pm
The Midnight Winds is a group of high school musicians from Millburn who share a common passion for music and performance. Their band focuses on jazz-rock fusion and improvisation that results in engaging and creative performances for the audience and the musicians. All of their music consists of original arrangements of classic music to combine technical experience with energy and passion.
Roadrunners - TBA
Boxcar Stage - 4:00pm
TBA
Samaira & Suhana - Pop
Boxcar Stage - 6:00pm
TBA
Rhythm Tolee - Bhangra / Punjabi Folk /Sufi
Boxcar Stage - 7:00pm
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.