Rock Review: A Colossal Rebirth

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By Chris Spiewak
The “classic rock” sound of the 1970s and 1980s is still a hugely popular genre of music, and there are a few local bands recreating that sound through their original compositions. One group in particular is Red Bank’s Colossal Street Jam.
Formed in 1990 and revived in late 2013, they have successfully returned to their roots with classic high-energy rock & roll, stoutly reaffirmed at a recent show at The Wonder Bar in Asbury Park.
Founding members Gene Potts, Sal Marra, Tony Flora and John Regan had a good thing going in the early 90s, holding a weekly gig at The Stone Pony for many months, and playing most other clubs along the circuit. Although there was talk of record company involvement at one point, this never materialized and the band decided in 1995 to take a break, which, as Gene says, “lasted 20 years.”
Remaining good friends, the band decided to stage a reunion concert in November 2013, celebrating the 20th anniversary of their self-titled CD release. This show, also at The Wonder Bar, was a rousing success, and the boys decided that a Colossal Street Jam revival should be undertaken. Rehearsing and writing songs throughout 2014, the band released a 5-song EP in 2015, presenting their strongest material to date. From the bluesy “Hanging Around,” to a good old rocker like “Running,” to a beautiful ballad entitled “Songbird,” CSJ is truly a well-rounded group. “Monday Morning Mass” is a strong blues/rock selection, and the final cut, “I Can’t Take It,” is a wonderful, eclectic mix of rock, blues and what sounds like a bit of soul and funk thrown in for good measure. This song is the perfect explanation for the band’s name; early on, a fan noted that the band sounded like “a big street jam.” Of course, “big” is never really big enough in rock ‘n roll, and colossal sounded better anyway; thus, CSJ was born.

Colossal Street Jam performs in Asbury Park. From left: Tony Flora, Gene Potts, Dave Halpern and Sal Marra
Colossal Street Jam performs in Asbury Park. From left: Tony Flora, Gene Potts, Dave Halpern and Sal Marra

Vocalist Gene Potts of Shrewsbury has been singing since age 13, studying under Rosemary Conte of Matawan from the very beginning. Potts really does have the vocal strength and the commanding stage presence that it takes to front a successful rock band. When CSJ is not working, Potts is part of an acoustic trio called Guns 4 Hire, with CSJ bandmate Sal Marra and guitarist John Bauso. Guns 4 Hire works regularly, and frequently performs at Walt St. Pub, Windensea and other area venues.
Lead guitarist Sal Marra is quite the showman; rarely standing still, he keeps the fans entertained whilst negotiating the fretboard with great skill and finesse. Marra has been busy with his music over the years, and even went to work for MTV for a short time as music director for the show “Red Johnny & The Round Guy” in the mid-90s. Soon afterwards, he joined up with former CSJ drummer George Papa in the late-90s as a duo called “No Luggage,” releasing two original music CDs along the way.
Middletown resident Tony Flora has provided rock-steady bass lines for many bands in his career, but of course Colossal Street Jam is his favorite. A great “in-the-pocket” player, Flora conjures up images of the great Stu Hamm; laying back when he needs to, and filling in with catchy riffs when things get really moving. There is absolutely no doubt that music is in Flora’s genes, as his son Anthony is one of the most talented drummers in New Jersey, currently working with the Taylor Tote Band.
A recent addition is Red Bank’s own Dave Halpern, replacing George Papa on drums. Dave is a veteran of the music business, with a long resume of professional work. He has contributed percussion parts to two Bee Gees releases, has worked with Highway 9 and Love in Reverse, and is currently touring with John Eddie. Halpern is not only a super talent, but benevolent as well; he makes weekly trips to the Lakeview School in Edison (one of the nation’s largest day programs for children with disabilities) with his drums to interact with the students.
A new CD is in the works for Colossal Street Jam, and there are rumors of a huge show this summer at The Stone Pony, so please check their Facebook page, as well as www.colossalstreetjam.com for the latest updates. Rock ‘n roll is alive and well in New Jersey, and CSJ is here to see that it stays that way.
Chris Spiewak is currently the bassist for Rock/Blues cover band VyntEdge.