CAPE MAY – In the rock n’ roll world, there is a Philadelphia sound, a Memphis sound and a Motown sound and there may be a Lower Cape May Regional High School sound.
At least two successful rock bands have come from the high school, in particular students from former teacher Mr. J’s guitar classes where hundreds if not thousands of pickers and strummers have cut their teeth on a six string.
The latest is a band called 7 Mornings featuring regional high school graduates Adam McDonough and John Miller who grew up in Cape May. The band is rounded out by Colin Miller on bass and drummer Pete Cetinich.
They credit Mr. J for so much of their sound and introduction to a whole world of music. John Miller credits most of his guitar instruction from Mr. J.
The band’s primary songwriters are McDonough and John Miller who between them handle guitars, piano and vocals. Ten years after graduating from regional and an education at Berkley School of Music, McDonough is excited about the band’s new five song CD entitled “Hurry Up and Wait,” which he said the title reflects the process of recording an album.
The sound of 7 Mornings could be described as pop-rock or “radio-friendly,” in particular, a track on the CD entitled “A Song Can Save.” McDonough and Miller agree it sounds like it should be released as a single.
The band’s name is based loosely on lyrics in a Bob Marley song.
7 Mornings paid it dues playing the music of other bands in plenty of Jersey beach town bars. McDonough said while it is easier to be a cover band, real success comes from playing original music.
McDonough and Miller have memories of a cold, bleak winter in Margate where they spent much of their time perfecting their songwriting. While the CD has five tracks, McDonough said have at least another 25 songs written.
The band is now headquartered in the North Jersey-New York area. The new CD was recorded in New York. Their producer Wayne Dorrell came up with a rich sound featuring some fine vocal performances from McDonough and Miller. Even though they cite influences from Tom Petty to the Beatles, 7 Mornings’ sound is as current as this morning’s sunrise.
The band comes home to Cape May to premier its new CD at the Ugly Mug, Jan. 9 at 10 p.m. in Cape May.
To preview to 7 Morning’s music, see www.7mornings.com
Lower Township – The days of the subscription lifestyle are here. Just bought that new house? To be able to use the bathroom is $12.95 a month. You want to cook in your new kitchen? It’ll cost you $14.95 a month….
