'I Love Westfield So Much': Teen Rocker Touring Overseas Talks Westfield Roots

WESTFIELD, NJ — One teen rocker is showing what happens in Westfield can take on the world.

Kobi Reese is a 14-year-old with a big dream, and a brand-new album to back it up that he and his fellow bandmates are preparing to perform in Germany in just a few days.

Along with thousands of eager fans online and well-wishes from former KISS drummer Eric Singer and Jefferson Starship, he and his band released their debut album, "Breaking Ground," last month.

Kobi says the project is just as much an ode to new beginnings as it is to where he came from, Westfield.

"Growing up in Westfield has definitely made me the person that I am today," he tells Patch. "I have lived in Westfield my entire life and it was where I began to develop my love for music. I am even taking a Writing and Arranging class right now at Westfield High School."

Kobi is the lead vocalist, a drummer, guitar player, base player, and plays the keyboard. He and his band give their own powerful take on a traditional rock sound in their originals while also covering the classics at a typical show.

Like any great community, it takes a team to achieve big things and feel at home. Kobi Reese, the band, is made up of Dallas Russo (guitar and vocals), William Port (keys and vocals), Dillon Lai (bass and vocals), Richie Page (drums and vocals), and Will Sternbach (guitar).

"Two themes that I think crossover between my music and the Westfield community are family and determination," Reese says. "The people who live in Westfield support one another just as family members do. I have met so many people in the music community that also support me like I am family."

Kobi Reese's first show ever was at the Crossroads in Garwood, the venue they returned to for their latest album release party. The band says there's "nothing like playing in or near your home town."

That, and playing pickle ball at Tamaques Park or grabbing the crew for a night at Yestercades.

"I love Westfield so much that I even filmed a few of my music videos here," says Reese. "'Sometimes When' at Edison Intermediate School and Keller Stadium. I also filmed my very first music video for 'I Want To Be Happy' at Mindowaskin Park."

Kobi's come a long way since Patch first profiled him in 2023.

Westfield's native son says he and his crew are looking forward to shows in Chicago opening for Great White and Slaughter, and New York City opening for George Lynch and Trixter after they get back from Germany.

The 10-song debut album, "Breaking Ground," is out now on streaming platforms, on CD and vinyl.

Booking information, tour dates, fan pages, and more can be found on the band's website.

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