Feeling The Blues: Highlights from the NJBS Blues Competition

Cristy Benvenutti
2 days ago
2 min read

Last Saturday, April 27th, The Stanhope House buzzed with the vibrant energy of blues music during the NJBS Blues Competition. This event was a convergence of passionate bands and solo acts, all vying for the chance to represent NJBS at The Blues Foundation's prestigious International Blues Challenge in Memphis, TN, scheduled for January 2026. Featuring a lineup of 7 talented bands and 4 solo/duo acts, the afternoon was a feast of exceptional musicianship and creativity.

The panel of judges was a dream team in the blues scene which included Bev Conklin, Kirk Hansen, Jay Lustig, and Dave Popkin.

Bev Conklin - Bev writes and performs the Blues from her own life's lessons. She has collaborated with Wayne Smith (former keyboardist for Jay & The Techniques), her band director, for most of her more than 30-years performing career.

Kirk Hansen - Kirk is an avid blues fan with a passion for Blues photography. He has a fantastic line of signed prints, along with original photographs and works with both musicians and venues.

Jay Lustig - Jay has been writing about the arts in New Jersey for more than 30 years. For most of that time he was the rock critic and then the Arts and Entertainment Editor for The Star-Ledger. Jay is currently the founder and editor of NJArts.net.

Dave Popkin - Dave is a veteran broadcaster in his 22nd season as a color commentator and play-by-play announcer with the Seton Hall Basketball radio network. He also serves as a music news reporter for WBGO FM in Newark.

Their collective knowledge ensured a fair, comprehensive evaluation of each performance, creating an atmosphere of trust and respect throughout the night. The Blues Foundation's judging criteria were adapted for the event: blues content, vocal talent, instrumental talent, stage presence, and originality.

After a day filled with memorable performances, the judges delivered the results. The Outcrops clinched victory in the band category, delivering a dynamic mix of tight harmonies and engaging stage presence. Ed Alstrom excelled in the solo/duo category, his soulful performance demonstrating why he ranks among the blues elite. With their victories come incredible opportunities. Both The Outcrops and Ed Alstrom now have the honor of representing NJBS at the International Blues Challenge in Memphis, an event that provides networking opportunities with peers and music industry professionals, in addition to the competition.

We extend our gratitude to all the participants who expressed their passion for blues on stage. The competition encouraged both rivalry and camaraderie among musicians and fans, highlighting the vibrant blues scene in the area. Special appreciation goes to Clark Paddock from Mountain Ledge Sound for outstanding sound and lighting, Fuchs Amps for the exceptional back line, Greg Lewis for capturing the amazing video, the staff at The Stanhope House for their excellent service, and the NJBS volunteers for ensuring the event's success.