Walter Byrne Walter Byrne

🎶 Vermont Artist of the Week 🎶

Maple City Music Artist of the Week: THUS LOVE

Brattleboro’s own Thus Love is a band that doesn’t just play music; they channel raw feeling and indie urgency. Formed during the pandemic in late 2019, the trio delivers a potent mix of post-punk, snappy riffs, and haunting vocals. Their 2022 album Memorial established a razor-sharp sound; their 2024 follow-up, All Pleasure, pushed things even further. With tracks like “Put on Dog” and “Centerfield,” they’re making waves both in Vermont and beyond.

Why We’re Featuring Them:

• They bring an intense but vulnerable sound, perfect for folks who love music and deep lyrics.

• They represent Vermont’s growing indie/post punk scene.

• Their work reflects community, authenticity, and stories worth hearing.

Listening & Support:

• Albums Memorial and All Pleasure available on Bandcamp / streaming platforms (Spotify)

• Catch them live if they swing through your town

About the Band

Thus Love is a post-punk/indie rock trio based in Brattleboro, Vermont. The members, Echo Mars (vocals/guitar), Lu Racine (drums), and Ally Juleen (bass; formerly Nathaniel van Osdol) blend sharp, urgent lyrics, driving instrumentals, and a sound that feels both raw and polished.

Discography Highlights

• Memorial (2022), their first full album on Captured Tracks.

• All Pleasure (Nov 2024) is their most recent album, which pushes their sound further with post-punk energy and layered vocals.

• Key tracks: “Put on Dog”, “Centerfield” among their recent singles.

What They’re Up To

• Growing presence in media & playlists; part of Vermont’s indie/post punk revival.

• Visually bold and performance intense, with strong audience connection.

www.maplecitymusic.com

#VermontMusic #IndiePostPunk #ThusLove #Brattleboro #AlbumRelease #ArtistSpotlight #MapleCityMusic #RealFormats #supportlocal

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Walter Byrne Walter Byrne

🎶 Vermont Artist of the Week 🎶

Maple City Music – Vermont Artist Spotlight: Sir Chloe

“I Am the Dog. I howl. I bite. I love.”

This week’s Vermont Artist Spotlight is all about the electrifying, emotionally raw energy of Sir Chloe—a band born in Bennington, Vermont, now shaking the indie rock scene on a national level.

Fronted by the powerful and poetic Dana Foote, Sir Chloe began as a college composition project and quickly caught fire with the viral hit “Michelle.” Now signed to Atlantic Records, they’ve opened for Beck, Phoenix, and Halsey, bringing sharp songwriting and haunting vocals to every stage.

Why We Love Sir Chloe:

At Maple City Music, we connect with artists who use music to say something real. Sir Chloe’s music cuts deep—it’s fierce, introspective, and unapologetically human. Their sound lives somewhere between alt-rock grit and indie vulnerability, and it hits just right.

Their debut album, I Am the Dog, is a full-body experience. And with their next release, Swallow the Knife, dropping August 22, 2025, this is the perfect time to dive in.

While we don’t currently stock Sir Chloe’s music, we love celebrating Vermont-grown talent that makes us feel something—and we’re proud to feature them in our online spotlight.

Based in Vermont, curated with care—Maple City Music supports the sounds that move us, no matter where you listen.

www.maplecitymusic.com

#MapleCityMusic #VermontArtistSpotlight #SirChloe #IndieRock #BenningtonVT #SupportVermontMusic #WomenInRock #IAmTheDog #SwallowTheKnife #OnlineRecordStore

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Walter Byrne Walter Byrne

🎶 Vermont Artist of the Week 🎶

Image from Julian Calv

Vermont Artist Spotlight: Julian Calv!

Composer, trimbist, street-artist, and now Maple City Music’s first consigner with exclusive 7″ and CD releases. Dive deep into his hypnotic rhythms and support original, local sound. Dropping soon in our “Local Artist” shop! Discover his albums Route 4, Thorn & Roots, and debut LP Nonstop Motion. His percussion pulse revives NYC street music right here in Vermont. Stream now and support local artistry!”

About Julian Calv

Julian Calv is an American composer, singer, and trimbist based in Vermont. Born in 1999 in New Brunswick, NJ, he graduated from Moravian University in 2021 with a bachelor’s in music (composition, education, classical piano). During his studies, he specialized in the work of avant-garde composer Moondog and apprenticed under Moondog’s only student, Stefan Lakatos, earning him the title of “Moondog’s grand student”.

Julian constructs and plays invented instruments like the trimba and selects the oo, preserving Moondog's unique percussive traditions while infusing them with his own compositional voice.

Discography & Musical Works

• Route 4 (2023)

A place-based percussion composition featuring samples of Interstate Route 4 intertwined with trimba-driven drum collages.

• Thorn & Roots (2023)

An improvised, high-energy piece inspired by a juice bar’s street-side performance, featuring a syncopated dance of trimba and balafon.

• Nonstop Motion (Album, Nov 9, 2024)

Julian’s debut album includes nine compositions—originals and Moondog pieces—anchored by relentless trimba rhythms. It also features pianist Ava Bloomfield and the vocal sextet Non-Prophets. Notably, Julian led a moving concert of Moondog vocal rounds at Southern State Correctional Facility in July 2024, followed by a performance with Trimbtych in Brattleboro.

Media Highlights

• “The Viking of Church Street”, Seven Days, VT – A celebrated profile recognizing Julian as a contemporary custodian of Moondog’s legacy.

• Skylight Webzine interview – An in-depth exploration of Julian's street-inspired compositions and creative approach.

Why We Love Julian at Maple City Music

“Julian Calv fuses avant-garde pulse with street-level poetry. He plays Moondog’s soulful legacy through his own instruments and vision, and we’re honored to spotlight an artist who keeps real, living music alive in Vermont.”

Social & Streaming Links

• Website: juliancalv.com

• Music: Bandcamp – Julian Calv

• Instagram: @julian.trimba

• Facebook: Julian Calv Music

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Walter Byrne Walter Byrne

🎶 Vermont Artist of the Week 🎶

Maple City Music Artist of the Week: Peter McPoland

Let’s shine a light on Peter McPoland, a rising star hailing originally from Burlington, Vermont. Blending raw emotion with indie-rock tendencies, Peter is carving a unique path—and we’re here to spotlight his journey.

Hometown Roots: Born November 3, 2000, in Burlington, Vermont. Though he later moved to Texas at age seven, the Green Mountain State remains the foundation of his artistic journey. He taught himself guitar at 14 and quickly began crafting resonant stories through music.

Breakthrough Moment: In 2021, Peter signed with Columbia Records—marking a turning point. His debut album, Piggy, dropped on August 11, 2023, earning him critical acclaim and introducing his sound to a wider audience.

What’s He Doing Now?

Recent Releases: Following Piggy, Peter continues to develop his emotional indie-rock style that strikes a chord with heartfelt lyricism and appealing melodies.

Live Performances: While specific tour dates aren’t public yet, his growing fanbase and label support suggest live music and festival appearances are just ahead.

Why Peter McPoland Is Worth Your Attention

Authentic Voice: Drawing on his Vermont roots and personal experiences, Peter's music is intimate, relatable, and emotionally stirring.

Industry Recognition: A Columbia Records signing speaks to his rising prominence in the indie and alternative rock scenes.

Momentum: With his debut LP already captured attention, Peter is at the brink of broader recognition, exactly what Maple City Music celebrates in our Artist of the Week.

#PeterMcPoland #VermontMusic #IndieRock #EmergingArtist #PiggyAlbum #MapleCityMusic #BurlingtonArtist

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Walter Byrne Walter Byrne

🎶 Vermont Artist of the Week 🎶

Vermont Artist Spotlight: Sarah Bell

This week, Maple City Music is proud to feature Sarah Bell, a Worcester-based folk/blues singer-songwriter whose work offers more than just melodies; it provides medicine.

With a voice that soothes and lyrics that empower, Sarah Bell’s music invites you into a space of reflection, restoration, and quiet strength. She blends the sounds of classic folk and soul-tinged blues with deep roots in Vermont’s natural rhythms and spiritual energy.

A practicing healing arts facilitator, Sarah’s creative life is a seamless fusion of sound and self-care. Between performances, she operates a wellness studio in Montpelier, where she supports others through Reiki and other restorative modalities. It’s no surprise that her music feels like a balm for the soul.

Why Sarah Bell?

She caught our attention through her recent NPR Tiny Desk Contest submission, a stripped-back, honest performance that brought her storytelling into full view. Her lyrics are raw yet comforting, calling us to slow down, listen inward, and heal.

More than an artist, Sarah is a pillar of her local community, mentoring other musicians, facilitating retreats, and performing at intimate house shows and open-air gatherings across Central Vermont. She is one of those rare creatives who lead with intention, care, and fierce gentleness.

What to Listen For

In her songs, you’ll find themes of self-reclamation, resilience, and nature-based spirituality. Whether you’re sipping coffee on a misty morning or driving through the mountains with the windows down, Sarah Bell’s music wraps around you like a favorite blanket.

From Worcester, Vermont

Folk / Blues / Healing Arts

Watch her Tiny Desk performance https://youtu.be/J3yZYvzKJds?si=G0-29RRIU8HkQ60T

Let’s Show Her Some Love:

If Sarah’s music has touched you—or if you’re hearing her for the first time—drop a or in the comments and let’s lift local voices together.

#MapleCityMusic #VermontArtistSpotlight #SarahBellMusic #HealingThroughMusic #VTFolk #WomenInFolk #VermontWellness #NPRTinyDesk #VTMusicScene #SupportLocalArtists

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Walter Byrne Walter Byrne

🎶 Vermont Artist of the Week 🎶

Vermont Artist Spotlight: Greg Freeman

Real music. Real formats. Real Vermont talent.

Maple City Music is excited to shine the spotlight this week on Greg Freeman, a Burlington-based singer-songwriter whose star is quickly rising in the music world.

About Greg Freeman

From: Burlington, Vermont

Style: Intimate folk and Americana with honest lyrics, warm vocals, and soulful storytelling.

His debut album, I Looked Out (2022), became a slow-burning cult favorite—garnering a devoted fan base long after its release.

Albums

I Looked Out (2022) – Released on Bud Tapes; gained popularity via word-of-mouth and regional touring.

Burnover (August 2025) – Upcoming sophomore album from Canvasback Records (an imprint of Transgressive Records); expected to expand his reach beyond New England.

Tour & Performance History

Toured outside Vermont following the success of I Looked Out.

Performed on his first European tour—with sold-out dates in Paris and U.K. venues, The Vermont Cynic.

Has put together folk-driven live shows known for their high emotional resonance.

Upcoming Shows

(Check his official channels to confirm these dates):

August 2025 – Album release tour is likely to take place across the Northeast, with potential expansion into Canada and Europe.

Keep tabs on his Canvasback/Touring announcements for individual venues near you.

Find Greg Freeman Online

Spotify: (Search “Greg Freeman Burlington”)

Apple Music: (Search Greg Freeman album “I Looked Out”)

Facebook, Instagram, Twitter: Search “Greg Freeman Music”

YouTube: Look for live performances from his European tour.

Why Greg Freeman Matters

Greg Freeman is the kind of artist Maple City Music loves to support: authentic, deeply connected to his Vermont roots, and growing on his artistic terms. With sincere lyrics and gentle folk melodies, he reminds us why vinyl, tapes, and CDs are the perfect vessels for heartfelt music.

At Maple City Music, we’re proud to spotlight Vermont artists like Greg Freeman. Explore his work in our online store—vinyl, CDs, and more—and be the first to know when Burnover drops this August.

#VermontArtistSpotlight #GregFreeman #VermontMusic #MapleCityMusic #SupportLocalMusic #FolkMusic #Americana #RealMusicRealFormats #BurlingtonVT #VeteranOwnedBusiness

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Walter Byrne Walter Byrne

🎶 Vermont Artist of the Week 🎶

Photo Courtesy of Shavin Lainez

🎤 Vermont Artist Spotlight: Dwight & Nicole

🎶 About Dwight & Nicole

Dwight & Nicole is an acclaimed American indie-soul/blues band based in Burlington, Vermont. Fronted by powerhouse vocalist Nicole Nelson and guitarist/singer Dwight Ritcher, the group crafts a stunning blend of soul, blues, and rock that’s both vintage and modern.

Nicole’s dynamic vocals soared to national attention on NBC’s The Voice, while Dwight’s blues-soaked guitar brings electrifying grit and emotion. Together, their chemistry and artistry have won them multiple awards and devoted fans across New England and beyond.

💿 Discography

Albums & EPs:

Electric Lights (2018)

A vibrant blend of soul, blues, and rock with tracks like “Wait” and “Hi Lo.”

Further (2014)

A lush, rootsy album that showcases the duo’s rich harmonies and heartfelt songwriting.

Dwight & Nicole EP (2011)

Early favorites like “Smile” and “I Need Love.”

Available on:

Spotify – Dwight & Nicole

Apple Music

Bandcamp

🎸 Performance History

Notable past shows:

Burlington Discover Jazz Festival

Higher Ground, Burlington, VT

Levitt AMP St. Johnsbury Music Series

Opening slots for Mavis Staples, Buddy Guy, The Mavericks

Featured on NPR Music, Boston Globe, and NBC’s The Voice (Nicole)

🎤 Upcoming Shows

September 13, 2025 – Higher Ground, Burlington, VT

October 5, 2025 – Levitt Pavilion, Westport, CT

More dates TBA on their website

🌐 Follow Dwight & Nicole

Instagram: @dwightandnicole

Facebook: Dwight & Nicole Music

YouTube: Dwight & Nicole

Spotify: Dwight & Nicole

Website: www.dwightandnicole.com

📝 Why We Love Dwight & Nicole at Maple City Music

“Dwight & Nicole’s music is pure soul—rooted in timeless blues and modern grooves. They’re Vermont artists who deliver unforgettable live shows and beautifully crafted records that belong on any turntable. We’re honored to support artists like them who keep real music and community alive.”

Suggested Social Post:

🎤 Vermont Artist Spotlight: Dwight & Nicole!

Soul, blues, and rock come alive with this powerhouse duo. Don’t miss their incredible energy, lush harmonies, and Vermont spirit. Dive into their albums and catch them live!

👉 www.dwightandnicole.com

#MapleCityMusic #VermontMusic #DwightAndNicole #SupportLocalArtists #VinylCommunity #SoulMusic #BluesRock #vtmusic #genx

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Walter Byrne Walter Byrne

🎶 Vermont Artist of the Week 🎶

Pic by Vic Brazen

🌿 Vermont Artist Spotlight: Kat Wright

Real music. Real formats. Real Vermont talent.

Maple City Music is thrilled to shine this week’s spotlight on Kat Wright, one of Vermont’s most beloved voices in modern soul and R&B.

About Kat Wright:

Hailing from Burlington, Vermont, Kat Wright is known for her velvety, vintage soul vocals paired with a contemporary, indie edge.

Her music blends the heart of Motown with indie folk textures and powerful, authentic lyricism.

Often performing with her stellar 7-piece soul band, she’s equally captivating solo.

Discography Highlights:

Introducing…Kat Wright and the Indomitable Soul Band (2013) – Standout tracks: By My Side, Come Dance

By My Side (Single) (2014)

All About You (Single) (2017)

Trio Sessions Vol. 1 (2020) – Intimate acoustic versions of her songs.

Feel The Love (2023) – Her newest record captures an even deeper emotional and sonic range.

Notable Performances & Tours:

Grand Point North Festival (Curated by Grace Potter)

NPR’s Tiny Desk Concert Submission – gained significant buzz

National touring circuit across the East Coast, Midwest, and festivals

Shared stages with artists like Grace Potter, The Wood Brothers, and Rubblebucket

Upcoming Tour Dates:
(Check her website or Bandsintown for the latest updates!)

July 12 – Burlington City Arts, Burlington, VT

August 3 – Spruce Peak Arts Center, Stowe, VT

August 10 – Stone Church, Brattleboro, VT

September 15 – Higher Ground, South Burlington, VT

Listen & Follow Kat Wright:

Spotify: Kat Wright on Spotify

Apple Music: Kat Wright on Apple Music

Website: www.katwright.com

Instagram: @katwrightband

Facebook: Kat Wright Music

At Maple City Music, we’re all about supporting local talent. Stop by our online store or follow us for info on exclusive vinyl and physical releases from Vermont artists like Kat Wright.

“Music should heal and bring joy… I want people to feel lifted, empowered, and inspired.” — Kat Wright

#VermontMusic #KatWright #VermontArtistSpotlight #MapleCityMusic #SupportLocalMusic #VinylCommunity #BurlingtonVT #SoulMusic #IndieSoul #VTMusicScene #RealMusicRealFormats #VeteranOwnedBusiness

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Walter Byrne Walter Byrne

🎶 Vermont Artist of the Week 🎶

Courtesy of David’s FB page.

🎶 Maple City Music Artist Spotlight: David Karl Roberts – Vermont’s Americana Troubadour 🎶

At Maple City Music, we’re dedicated to celebrating the vibrant artists who make Vermont’s music scene shine. As your veteran-owned vinyl shop in Vermont, we’re excited to bring you this week’s Artist Spotlight on one of New England’s most passionate voices: David Karl Roberts.

Meet David Karl Roberts – The Heart of Vermont’s Americana Music

If you’ve ever wandered into a cozy Vermont record store or scrolled your favorite streaming platform searching for soulful, authentic sounds, chances are you’ve crossed paths with the music of David Karl Roberts.

Based in Stowe, Vermont, David Karl Roberts has spent decades traveling the highways and byways of New England, performing his original music in coffeehouses, clubs, and festivals throughout the region. His music blends folk, blues, indie, soul, and Americana, creating a rich, whiskey-soaked sound that fans can’t help but feel deeply.

At Maple City Music, we believe in more than just selling records—we believe in the stories and the artists behind them. That’s why featuring local Vermont artists like David is at the heart of our mission to keep real music and real formats alive.

A Life on Stage – David’s Impressive Journey

David has built an impressive career as a singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist, known for his mastery of guitar, harmonica, mandolin, and national steel guitar. His soulful voice and storytelling have earned him spots opening for legendary artists like Dave Bromberg, Hot Tuna, New Riders of the Purple Sage, Fairport Convention, Rick Danko, Dave Mason, Aquarium Rescue Unit, Joe Pug, Chris Pierce, and more.

Beyond performing, David is a passionate supporter of Vermont’s local music community. He produces events like the 2024 Emerging Songwriters Contest at Burlington’s Venetian Soda Lounge and the Green Mountain Indie Folk Showcases held at venues like the Highland Center for the Arts in Greensboro and Camp Meade in Middlesex.

In 2024 alone, David performed 124 shows across Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maine, proving that the love for Americana music and live performance is thriving throughout the region.

Catch David Karl Roberts Live in St. Albans

Maple City Music proudly invites you to see David live at these upcoming performances in St. Albans:

  • July 5 – Northwest Farmers Market Local Music Showcase

  • August 2 – Mill River BBQ & Smokehouse

  • September 6 – Northwest Farmers Market Local Music Showcase

Supporting local artists like David means supporting Vermont’s creative soul—and there’s no better way to experience that than live music.

At Maple City Music, we’re proud to be a veteran-owned vinyl shop that celebrates artists who pour their hearts into their craft. Join us as we keep real music, real formats, and the Vermont music scene alive—one record at a time.

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Walter Byrne Walter Byrne

🎶 Vermont Artist of the Week 🎶

Meet Francesca Blanchard, a French-American singer-songwriter based right here in Burlington, VT. 🌲 Her music blends indie folk, dreamy pop, and soulful storytelling—with lyrics in both English and French. ✨

🎧 Sounds like: Feist meets Norah Jones
🎵 Must-listen: “Free” from her EP Make It Better
🌍 Local roots. Global sound. Just like us.

We’re proud to spotlight artists who bring soul and story to the Green Mountains—and beyond. 💚

📍 Burlington, VT
🔗 francescablanchard.com
🎶 Spotify: Francesca Blanchard
📸 IG: @francescamusic

Stay tuned as we feature more Vermont creatives each week—and let us know if you have a local artist we should highlight next! 👇

#MapleCityMusic #VermontArtist #VinylCulture #SupportLocalMusic #BTVMusic #IndieFolk #VeteranOwned #LocalRootsGlobalSound #NowSpinning #FrancescaBlanchard

Courtesy Fransesca’s FB Page.

Meet Francesca Blanchard, a French-American singer-songwriter based right here in Burlington, VT. 🌲 Her music blends indie folk, dreamy pop, and soulful storytelling—with lyrics in both English and French. ✨

🎧 Sounds like: Feist meets Norah Jones
🎵 Must-listen: “Free” from her EP Make It Better
🌍 Local roots. Global sound. Just like us.

We’re proud to spotlight artists who bring soul and story to the Green Mountains—and beyond. 💚

📍 Burlington, VT
🔗 francescablanchard.com
🎶 Spotify: Francesca Blanchard
📸 IG: @francescamusic

Stay tuned as we feature more Vermont creatives each week—and let us know if you have a local artist we should highlight next! 👇

#MapleCityMusic #VermontArtist #VinylCulture #SupportLocalMusic #BTVMusic #IndieFolk #VeteranOwned #LocalRootsGlobalSound #NowSpinning #FrancescaBlanchard

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