Melting Trends Brings Five Stellar Acts to the Berkeley Backyard
Shot and Written by Erika Szumel
September 7, 2026
Shot and Written by Erika Szumel
September 7, 2026
This past Wednesday, fans came together at the Berkeley Backyard for a show presented by Melting Trends featuring five incredible acts: Apsalar, Kiersten Blue, The Extensions, Abby Jeanne & the Shadowband, and Rachel Ana Dobken.
The Berkeley Backyard is a perfect venue for local shows. It’s got a surprising amount of space and places to sit both inside and outside. The smaller stages make for a more intimate experience too.
Starting the night off strong was Apsalar, an indie folk musician from Asbury Park. He played several of his singles released in both 2025 and 2026. The music is really peaceful to listen to, I felt like I was almost in a trance at some point. It felt reminiscent of some of my favorite folk artists, like Bon Iver or Fleet Foxes. The crowd loved it, and I think everyone felt entranced while listening. Listen to “Hunting for Morels” or “Dog Day”—especially now, this music is perfect for calm fall nights.
Next up was Kiersten Blue, a local artist whose music blends alternative, rock, pop, and folk. I’ve had the pleasure of watching Kiersten’s performances over the past few years. It’s been incredible to watch her grow as a musician. Her music is moody, dramatic, and energetic all at the same time, it’s easy to listen to it for hours. Check out “Aspens Have Eyes” for a moody trip and “Silent Sound” for the amazing guitar solos.
Following Kiersten Blue was indie dance band, The Extensions. Once onstage, lead singer Brian Erickson instructed the crowd to “go ape shit with the beach balls” that were scattered around the room. The beach balls were a promo item for the show, that was supported by 90.5 The Night, Brookdale public radio. People were kicking and throwing the beach balls the entire time. It was silly and fun. They played their brand new album, Modern Vice, released in August, from front to back. The songs are a great display of this band’s talent, as four of the musicians are featured as lead singers on different tracks. The album twists and turns, but it’s fun, upbeat, and entertaining.
Abby Jeanne and the Shadowband was a pleasant surprise for me at this show. I had never heard of this band or their music, and I was hooked from the jump. They’re an NYC based indie/garage/soul band. With the 60s/70s outfit and the Janis Joplin-esque vocals, it felt like stepping back in time, but yet, still modern. “Baby Come Love Me” and “Queen Bee” are two of my new favorites.
Closing out the night was Rachel Ana Dobken, an Asbury Park native whose music blends heavy indie rock, psychedelic, and soul. RAD brought an incredible set of lyrics, guitar solos, and artistry, playing many tracks from their repertoire. They also played a brand-new, unreleased song, “New Normal”. Based on this performance, I’m excited to hear it again! I also really enjoyed “Always”. I like watching this band and I love supporting female fronted bands. Rachel sang, played guitar, and at one point in the set she played the drums too.
It was a fun night of local and live music in the heart of it all, Asbury Park.
Follow these artists on social media and stream their music!
Coverage from September 2, 2026 at Berkeley Backyard in Asbury Park, NJ. All photos are © Erika Jane Photography. and cannot be used without permission.