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Diffuser reunites for 25th anniversary show to benefit autistic community

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Rock the Spectrum concert on Sept. 7 at Mulcahy’s Concert Hall (Photo from Families for Inclusion)

Former Hollywood Records recording artists Diffuser are performing a reunion concert to celebrate the 25th anniversary of the band’s debut album, “Injury Loves Melody,” and benefit the autistic community on Saturday, Sept. 7, at Mulcahy’s Concert Hall in Wantagh.

The show, Rock the Spectrum, will feature Diffuser’s four original members and will include local artists Madisonprep and Wired. 

Proceeds from the fundraiser will be donated to two local Long Island autism charities, The Nicholas Center and Families For Inclusion. 

The event, sponsored by WBAB-FM and Waldner’s Business Environments, will be hosted by comedian Graham Kay and will feature surprise guests, luxury items for raffle and a live auction by John Theissen and the John Theissen Children’s Foundation.

Diffuser was formed in 1994 on Long Island by singer Tomas Costanza, guitarist Anthony Cangelosi, bassist Lawrence Sullivan, and drummer Billy Alemaghides. 

The band rose to fame after signing with Hollywood Records, a major label. Their first album on that label, Injury Loves Melody, featured the Top 20 Billboard hit “Karma,” which is also on the Mission: Impossible 2 soundtrack. The band has toured with Hoobastank and the All-American Rejects on the Nokia Unwired Tour, Spitalfield and Silverstein on a US tour, and performed on an international tour through Japan.

Costanza was a student of The Nicholas Center’s co-founder, Stella Spanakos, when she taught high school.

“Rock the Spectrum is more than just an event; it’s a mission- a profound opportunity to use our music to shine the light on autism awareness,” said Costanza.

The Nicholas Center, based in Port Washington, has revolutionized the way autistic individuals learn, live and work in the community. Acting as agents of change, the organization inspires, encourages and motivates communities to include autistic individuals in all facets of community life. With a focus on creating inclusive employment opportunities, The Nicholas Center offers a Supported Employment Program that supports individuals on the job. Visit tncnewyork.org for more information.

The other organization of the Rock the Spectrum concert, Families For Inclusion, aims to promote education about autism, neurodiversity, and inclusion in elementary school and assist the process wherever possible. This is accomplished through programs, assemblies, workshops, and grants for schools that embody its mission. Visit FamiliesForInclusion.org for more information.

Tickets are on sale now at muls.com or at the door. General admission is $25 per person, and VIP tables are $45 per person.

Visit RockTheSpectrum.show for all info, including sponsorship opportunities.