In 2004, Crom wrote the book, music, and lyrics for "NEWSical", and received his first Drama Desk nomination for Outstanding Lyrics, with "NEWSical" picking up a nomination for Outstanding Review . An original cast recording was released on April 5, 2005. Though "NEWSical" closed in 2005 after 215 performances, a new edition (renamed "NEWSICAL the Musical: We Distort, You Decide", and featuring an original book and music) began previews at the 47th Street Theater on November 24, 2009, and opened December 9 of that year. Once again, Crom was nominated for the Drama Desk Award for Outstanding Lyrics, and the show was nominated for the Outstanding Musical Revue award. The 2009–2010 production closed March 21, 2010. The latest edition of "NEWSical the Musical: Full Spin Ahead" began previews December 13 of that year and opened on January 9, 2011 at The Kirk at Theatre Row.