Made in NJ: Garden State Line has a little something for everyone.
Since this year’s Jersey Fest is a celebration of all things Jersey, we couldn’t think of a better hometown band than Garden State Line to play. Once the house band at the famous Stony Pony in Asbury Park, lead singer, Tam Garcia, gave us the scoop on what it was like to play the iconic venue and how the band embodies the diverse spirit of New Jersey.
OYC: How many of the Garden State Line members are natives of NJ? How did that influence your music?
TG: We're all homegrown from The Garden State, and I think our music reflects it in the sense that it's a little something for everyone. We don't stick to one particular genre of music. We all have our own style of playing and influences that we bring to the table, some we all have in common and others we have a greater appreciation for now from playing together. Our style varies from song to song, and some songs are just a fusion of different genres.
OYC: What was the first show you ever saw at The Stone Pony?
TG: I honestly don't remember. I'd have to go back and check an old Xanga entry or something. Hahaha, oh man, remember xanga/livejournal/geocities? I digress, I think it may have been one of the early Warped Tours or Skate and Surf?
OYC: What did it mean to be playing the Stone Pony, was it always a dream?
TG: It's a huge honor! The Pony, and Asbury Park, has so much history in music. We all know Bruce Springsteen, Lance Larson, John Eddie, Bon Jovi, Gaslight Anthem and so many others that have had such an impact on the music and in Asbury Park, and for us to be included in that history (even if it's just a little part) is something we never really thought of, but are extremely honored, grateful and humbled by. It's crazy, to me, when you think about all the names and bands that have stood on that stage, heroes and peers alike. I have to pinch myself a lot of times because I still have a hard time wrapping my head around it.
OYC: What was your favorite experience as the house band?
TG: I'd say the the most memorable experience would be playing with 311. I grew up listening to 311 so to play with them was like a childhood dream come true! It was a sold out show, so you could not move. The energy was through the roof, and I think it may be one of the best shows we've ever played. Opening for Primus was a great time for us as well because it was just kind of a crazy show. The crowd, and Primus is Primus ya know? Haha. Plus, we're big fans of Primus, too, so to play on the same bill was really cool! It's really hard to call a favorite because we always have a blast whenever we play there. But, I'd say those are some stand out moments.
OYC: What is the best part about living in NJ?
TG: The best part about living in NJ? We have it all! We have something for everyone. Some of the most famous beaches and boardwalks in the country, beautiful vineyards and farmlands, cool ghost stories/Weird NJ! (I'm in to that stuff) The Jersey Devil!, Atlantic City for anyone who wants to try their luck. We're close to the city and at the same time just far enough away from it, too. I love the Watchung Reservation. I spent a lot of time there as a kid and it holds a vey special place in my heart. And of course THE BEACH!
Catch Garden State Line and celebrate NJ at Jersey Fest July 8th.
Purchase tickets here: https://www.oldyorkcellars.com/Events/Festivals
