The second time around proves to be quite eclectic
This was the second showcase at The Goldhawk (936 Park Ave, Hoboken) for Hoboken Unsigned as they continue to keep hope alive for the many indie and unsigned musicians in the area. Organizer and host Dave Entwistle took a daring stretch in his choices for musical features. One was a folk/rock duo from Canada, the other a hip-hop sextet from Jersey City. Both brought a unique sound and energy to the party tonight.
First up were Brandy Zdan and Dave Quanbury calling themselves Twilight Hotel from Winnipeg, Canada. Originally described to me as electronica and vocals with cello, they turned out to be very different. It was a simple set up of two guitars (occasionally one guitar and one accordion) and two voices. Combining traditional folk, blues, rock and cabaret, they packed quite a punch. You can tell how much they enjoy working and writing together. The best description of their eclectic sound came from singer/songwriter Rob Nicholas who said their sound was like big band music, but without the big band.
Go-Illa is a large hip hop ensemble consisting of six (count ‘em) six rappers. Their style of in-your-face rap is not really my thing, but their crowd was young, boisterous and full of joy. As much as an act like this may be rare at The Goldhawk, there was no denying the energy in the room when they started. And as different as they were from the first act, every one of them—and a good portion of their crowd—was there to show support when Twilight Hotel played. That gives them high marks in my book.
So it’s true, this was a weird night … but a good night. For any scene to survive, it must diversify from time to time. Hoboken Unsigned has proven once again that there is an appetite for original music in this town. It doesn’t matter where it comes from or what style it is, if it’s done in a way that touches people, it will resonate. And that beyond anything else tonight is what I took home with me. Kudos to Dave and The Goldhawk.
So, what’s next? I say it’s time for a klesmer meets polka night!
No, really … I’m serious.
See Also:
Photo Gallery
Twilight Hotel
Go-Illa
The Goldhawk
