Happy Independence Day! Rather then ranting about political and freedom of speech issues (did you know the FCC fined a radio station for playing an edited version of a song, claiming it was still offensive?), this 4th of July week, I will step down from my soapbox and just talk about some cool New Jersey music happenings.

Last Sunday I had the distinct pleasure of being involved with the Emmanuel Cancer Foundation's benefit concert at the Stone Pony. Lots of good bands played and fun was had by all who attended. Just as important, if not more so, money was raised to help children with cancer. Thanks should go out to all the bands who participated, and a special thanks to the Arena Drive, for getting me involved with this event.

This 4th of July, there is another benefit concert for a worthy cause. I urge everyone to go to Convention Hall in Asbury Park, for a day of live music by NJ bands to help end slavery in Sudan. Many bands are performing including: The Bank Robbers, On the Outside, No Regretts Band, Planet Janet, Snaggle Tooth, Speed Crazy, The Magic Words, Feeble Minds, The Nosebleeds, The Pennyroyals, Casanovacane, Sharky's Machine, 7 Minds, The Tokyo, Professor Plum, Clear Shot, Cameron, PF 113, No Heroes, Second Best and Superspecs. Support NJ bands and a good cause at the same time.

I promise next week I really will get off my soapbox. No politics, just NJ music :)

2. NEW SONGS ADDED THIS WEEK