In the heart of Silk City along the banks of the Passaic River, Prototype 237 towers above the old garment section in Paterson NJ. This one time warehouse is now a beacon for creativity: an art house, live music venue and creative co-living space, which has hosted some of the most inspiring music and bands traveling through the metropolitan area. Thursday night's show was no different and featured Asbury Park's Renee Maskin, Albany New York’s, E.R.I.E., and local North Jersey’s Wizard Brain. 
Kicking things off was prolific singer-songwriter Renee Maskin, who delivered a captivating performance, occasionally supported by “Tuck”, Prototype's caretaker and all around amazing dog. With a bank of songs at the ready, Renee introduced a new tune called Nashville. It’s both catchy and timely, authentically Renee, fun with a melancholic dose of reality. Additional standout songs included “Horses “ and the most recent Mint 400 Records single release, Scrimshaw. If you haven’t watched the short film version of Scrimshaw, see link below. The video was directed by the gifted filmmaker and photographer from Asbury Park, John Decker. The stunningly shot footage was captured in super 8 film, which reflects the tone and tenor of the song. 
Turning things way up! Albany New York’s E.R.I.E took the stage with an energetic blast of rock and roll meets Jawbreaker punk! The band was firing on all cylinders and having a damn good time. It’s hard to believe this was the first night of their tour in support of their Mint 400 Records release, Suburban Mayhem. At times, the warm crowd was compelled to dance and shout along, whoa! whoa! whoa! Stand out songs were World is on Fire, Suburban Mayhem and The Motions. 
Northern New Jersey’s Wizard Brain quietly took the stage and treated the intimate crowd with a brand of garage-jangle rock and roll. Instantly, Bobby Kirner’s singing tone respectfully grabbed the audience by the throat to pay attention. As the song, Happy Soul/Keep On Groovin continued, we found ourselves swaying along with the band, not wanting it to end. The other standout moment was the slightly more quiet tune called Pale Blue Dots. It was a nice touch of dynamics in the middle of the set and showcased Bobby’s fantastic songwriting. 
Apparently and with pictures to prove it, more went down. After all, it is Prototype 237 and anything goes on any given night. Ladies and gentlemen, from the swamps of New Jersey and the ghost of Hound Dog Taylor….Pappa Reese Van Riper! I heard he stomped his way through some of his classics and new tunes alike. Moral of the story, don’t sleep on this beacon of light, Prototype 237(https://www.prototype237.com/ ).