🎶 Vermont Artist of the Week 🎶
Vermont Artist Highlight: Robber Robber
Who They Are
Robber Robber hail from Burlington, Vermont, founded by Nina Cates and Zack James (previously collaborating under The Snaz in Brattleboro). Over time, they expanded into a full band, adding Will Krulak (guitar) and Carney Hemler (bass) to flesh out the lineup. Their creative ethos is very DIY — Cates and James drive the visual direction, video work, artwork, and promotion themselves, making the band as much a multimedia project as a sonic one.
Their music leans in between indie rock, post-punk, art noise, and textured atmospherics — you’ll hear tension, release, dynamics, and bold choices in both songwriting and production.
Discography & Key Works
Wild Guess (Released July 26, 2024)
Their debut full-length, Wild Guess, is out on Bandcamp and in physical formats (cassette + digital).
Track highlights include:
• “Seven Houses”
• “Backup Plan”
• “How We Ball”
• “Sea or War”
• “Machine Wall”
The album was co-produced by Benny Yurco (of Grace Potter fame) and Urian Hackney (The Armed / Rough Francis), and was recorded at Little Jamaica Recordings in Burlington.
Critics (like Pitchfork) describe Wild Guess as “pitting airy dreamscapes against raw realities,” mixing rough edges and noise with melodic impulses.
Earlier / Side Releases
Caldera (EP, 2021)
Guy Ferrari (2019)
Singles & Videos: “How We Ball” (pre-album single)
Song “Sea or War” released as a stand-alone track earlier in 2024
Tour & Upcoming / Recent Shows
Here’s what I found on their live activity and near-future appearances:
They also have at least one show scheduled for October: October 7 at Higher Ground, supporting Lightning Bolt.
Although there are currently fewer confirmed dates, their past touring momentum suggests they intend to remain active. It’s also possible that more local/regional shows will be announced.
What Makes Robber Robber Stand Out — Why We Love Them at Maple City Music
Local + ambitious
They’re rooted in Burlington and Vermont’s indie scene, but their ambition and sound reach well beyond state lines. They’re a great example of local acts taking the next step.
Strong aesthetic & identity control
Because they handle much of their visual art, videos, and promotional materials, their branding is consistent and powerful — you don’t just hear Robber Robber, you see them. That helps a lot in creating connection and narrative.
Dynamic, risky songwriting
Their songs often don’t play it safe. They intensify, pull back, distort, reassemble. That kind of creative risk is rewarding for listeners (and gives your audience something intriguing to dive into).
Collaborative ties & scene awareness
Their co-production work with local figures, relationship to Burlington’s creative community, and peer connections signal that they are integrated and invested in the scene, not loosely attached.
Emotional & sonic contrast
Their ability to transition between introspective, fragile moments and full sonic storms makes their body of work compelling on repeated listens.
If you haven’t yet, give Wild Guess a spin. Watch how a quiet moment might turn messy and gorgeous. Stay tuned for new shows!
