MMurphy’s Open Mic
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   Brian, one of the performers that night, also mentioned how "laid-back" the place was. "It's just a comfortable atmosphere to try stuff out in. If you play a song where people know the chords, we can maybe play along, or do harmonies or something."
   Likely due to the fact that the open mike at Murphy's is such a new event, the participants were few in number that evening. A handful of "regulars" played both original songs and covers, and at the time there were no specific limits on the number they were allowed to play. There was even the chance for repeat performances. This, of course, could easily change depending on whether or not the open mike takes off as time passes.
   It's also worth noting that one can grab some dinner while watching or even participating in the open mike. I can't imagine I'm alone in appreciation for that opportunity, and Murphy's was a personal favorite restaurant of mine long before the existence of its open mike, so at least for me, that's an added plus.
   The only potential drawback to this particular open mike is that, because it exists in a Bar and Grill, there is something of a captive audience. There can very well be people in the room during the open mike that, well, just want to eat their giant steak in peace.  Fortunately, the music was still appropriate for its environment (no 15-minute experimental techno-noodling or elaborate, loud percussion, for example) and I, at least, didn't hear much that someone could complain about.
   Al, the man running the event, cited his past history with bands and his love of music as an explanation for getting the open mike started, and also mentioned karaoke nights on Wednesdays and Saturdays that he ran at Murphy's.
   Ultimately, the open mike at Murphy's is best for small, acoustic acts, given its location, the size of the stage, and the general atmo- sphere.  Larger bands with drums, people fond of distortion pedals or players of large, unwieldy xylophones should probably seek elsewhere.
   For more information about Murphy Style Grill or the open mike, visit www.murphysgrill.com or call (732) 607-0800.
                           -Adam Taliercio

MStreet Life
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   But their spirit and original style were enough to draw a crowd. They play   with conviction and joy. They were my other favorite performers for the night and asked to be quoted as saying, "Ferocious women rock the world!"

Virago charming the crowd

   Kimon and the Prophets played at the train station, a good location. Local residents pass it frequently and the commuters getting on and off the trains seemed to congregate around the waiting area where the band was playing. This was a fully equipped band with two guitarists, a bass player and a drummer. They were a decent rock band and drew a good crowd. This location was ideal for them and all their equipment. However, their amps and huge speakers were a little too over- juiced for the area and event.
   Overall I think it is a good idea to bring people into town by promoting art and local artists. The galleries did seem to have more activity then normal. I think Street Life has a long way to go, though. Red Bank is struggling and the fight to keep it thriving needs to be more effective.
       -Dina Giordano