What can you say about a rock band from New Jersey paying their dues? THE JERSEY SYNDICATE are a female-fronted band featuring the luscious Stevie Samay, who can belt the tunes out with the best of them. The band plays a sort of rock meets pop and you feel those famous Jersey influences in their songs; Bruce, Bon Jovi, and even John Cafferty just to mention a few. I also feel a country element in the songs just like Springsteen and the others at times.

The self-titled release starts off with “Need You Eyes” which is a smooth rocker that’s very enjoyable. A good track when you’re behind the wheel taking the drive to the Jersey shore. Shaun Cooney hits you with a cool solo during the track too.

TJS kick it up on “Heart-N-Soul” but the key to the tune is keyboardist Rich Gurtler tickling the ivory’s and the great harmonies are cool too. If you’re a fan of bands like TRAFFIC from back in the day this is the song for you.

The next track “Tell Me”, which is produced by Beau Hill, has that classic Jersey vibe which gets regular airplay around these parts. With the new CD, the band is starting to branch out across the country and starting to make some waves in Europe, so in time I’m sure everybody will get the luxury as us Jersey people have had for a couple years with this group.

Probably one of my favorite tracks is “Missing You”, which “cuddles” your soul. Stevie Samay shows she is a vocal entity but for sure the band is the backbone. Timekeeper Mike Sasso behind the kit can raise his head in glory as one of the main songwriters, and both Al Borguet and Shaun Cooney’s dual guitar work show elements of stardom and the thunder is possessed by Chris Cooney, no I didn’t forget the keys by Rich Gurtler which gives TJS that full sound.

This is what you call quality on “(I Don’t Want To Hurt) Anymore”. Stevie sends chills running down the back on my neck on this one; a beautiful sensitive song with soaring guitars. The song is a phenomenal ballad that tares at your heart. Pump it up and let others hear it! This is a classic… and my favorite track!

“Shining Knight” might be the heaviest track with Shaun Cooney flying off in a tantrum as his guitar sings. For a band that plays a more subtle laid-back style of rock music I feel the crunch wanting to break loose from time to time!

Now for the AOR crowd this songs is the hit-maker… “Learning To Live” is one I think the kids will love, adults will love and even newborns too! It’s just a good closing punch, which leaves you wanting more!

This CD is a good stepping-stone for THE JERSEY SYNDICATE that should bring the band some new fans. So check these guys out!