Asbury Park’s very own record shop and clothing store, Holdfast, took residence on Cookman Avenue in downtown AP in March of 2009, and they’ve been an institution since. Not only do they sell very collectible vinyl, handpicked by owner Joe Koukos, but they also offer a place in AP to get casual, urban clothing ( NOT mall junk!) for all us cool kids. They’ve got a remarkable collection of each, and as their site boasts, this is the go-to place for Vinyl LP’s and 45’s in all genres—Punk, Soul, Jazz, Reggae, Dub, Hardcore and more. As if those weren’t reasons enough, Holdfast has hosted some fine local and national acts for in-store performances including The Bouncing Souls appearance this past December. Seems like there’s ALWAYS a good reason to drop by this friendly neighborhood record store.
The Bouncing Souls Perform At Holdfast This Past December
Joe’s partner Meghan Scott also owns and operates the store in conjunction with him, and she’s brought the women of the community together with with an AP chapter of “Stich&Bitch” an in-store DIY craft class hosted by area artist and designer, Joy Vay, (who fronts a very tidy 4 piece band TV Tramps that any punk rock connoisseur worth their salt will dig upon first listen). I highly recommend these fun and informative sessions which double as a nice way for the ladies to listen to some great tunes and kick it sans the boys every once in a while. These classes are just another example of how Meghan and Joe thoughtfully transformed Holdfast into not just a retail establishment, but a valued part of the community.
Local DJ Jim Curran Finds One Of His Favorites at Holdfast
This Saturday marks Holdfast’s second anniversary, and they will be celebrating in style. Tom Dunphy of area band Imaginary War will be performing, along with Joe Wilson of We Are All Broken . Both fellas are extremely talented singer/songwriters in their own right and the performances promise to be stellar. I’m especially excited to report that the party will feature some choice audio selections from DJ Pete Steinkopf of a little outfit known as The Boucing Souls, and another very special guest, none other than DJ Lamar Vannoy ( Oi Oi Oi Oi / and his name is Lamar Vannoy!) It’s cool to nerd out when you get here, p.s.— I still do!
Swing on down to Holdfast, located at 639 Cookman Avenue in Asbury Park this Saturday March 12th at 3 PM for a rollicking good time, and make sure to bring a few bucks. Or else you’ll be kicking yourself after you start perusing the record section and vintage racks. Hey, I’m trying to help YOU out, ok? Do you want to live a life of regret? Didn’t think so! See you there!
