After a series of renovations, the iconic Stone Pony in Asbury Park, NJ, will have its official grand reopening on February 7. The English Beat, one of ska’s most influential bands, will be the first international act in the newly renovated club, which is celebrating its 35th anniversary this year. Big D and The Kids Table and Infinite Detour and Faber, both New Jerseyites, will open for The English Beat.
“It’s an honor and a pleasure for the English Beat to be the first band at the newly regroomed Stone Pony,” said English Beat frontman Dave Wakeling in a statement. “Even though it will look bright and fresh, I know that the spirit of Bruce Springsteen and Southside Jonny will still be with us in the Hall!”
The Stone Pony now boasts a more spacious feel with higher ceilings; the ceiling’s shape has been enhanced to provide optimal acoustical quality. Sightlines have also been enhanced by the removal of columns throughout the venue.
The club had a soft re-opening on January 8 with amateur night, and more smaller shows scheduled through the February 7 grand reopening, including Funeral for a Friend on January 23. Other acts booked into the club are Railroad Earth on February 13, Less Than Jake on March 19, and Butch Walker on March 20.
