Artists

Under the direction of Alan Rowe, the St. Johnsbury Academy Hilltones are the school’s select mixed a cappella vocal group who sing a delightfully eclectic program ranging from a vigorous South African freedom song to a moving rendition of Bob Dylan’s “The Times They Are a’changin’” The ensemble makes an annual appearance at the Vermont Madrigal Festival in Burlington as the “Academy’s vocal ambassadors.”

Tim Berry and Suzan Derby both grew up in musical households where any genre could be found. Their inherited love of music and well-developed talents make for a winning combination to make music from the country and bluegrass genius of Merle Haggard, Doc Watson, Nanci Griffith and Alison Krauss. As Alive and Well, their voices blend beautifully, whether it’s a slow love song or a driving solid number. Accompanied by two guitars and an occasional bass, this duo promises a “good ol’ boy” foot stomper followed by a sweet melodious tune, and everything in between.

“Vermont’s busiest magician” takes the early stage at First Night North to delight us with a stand-up magic show that is entertaining, engaging, and fun. Alyx’s audience can follow her to the Family Fun Fair where her strolling magic tricks will keep everyone guessing and amazed. Alyx is getting noticed these days as a rising star magician with wit and charm few others in her profession can boast. She has “an elegant style of magic that pulls you in, keeps you close, and touches your intrigue. She’s a magician whose skill is equally matched by her grace.”

Bring back musical memories of the 50s, 60s and 70s with the Belaires. Whether you love “At The Hop” by Danny and the Juniors, “Sultan of Swing” by Dire Straits or “Ventura Highway” by America, you’ll love the Belaires. You just can’t sit still with this band. It’s dance, dance, dance. With Paul Toney on guitar, Bruce James on drums, Buzz Hubbard on lead guitar, and Al Bourbeau on bass, these seasoned veterans of the music business have the chops and first-hand knowledge of how these great classic hits are to be played. So get ready to rock‘n’roll to your favorite songs you grew up with, with the Belaires.

With over 40 distinct sounds, or stops, mimicking the instruments in an entire orchestra, the United Community Church’s 2,000-pipe, three-manual organ earns the nickname “King of Instruments.” Barbara Connelly has been organist and directing music at the church for over four decades. Her son Paul sang in the church’s choir throughout his elementary and high school years and went on to become a high school music teacher in Michigan. Playing piano, he joins his mother in a program of classical and holiday selections. This mother-son duo is also working on four-hand organ music, with four feet on the organ pedals!

Playing and singing since they were “youngins,” The Barnyard Incident plays “music that’s good for you.” This acoustic band are all seasoned musical veterans: Deb Rossetti Sullivan singing lead vocals and adding percussion; Perry Williams thumping his upright bass; Barry Moore picking his array of dobro, mandolin, guitar, and mando harp; James Sullivan playing fiddle and guitar, and Dean Bakes on mandolin, guitar, and banjo, with all five singing in solid harmony. Together they create a rhythmic sound ranging all the way from toe-tapping barn-burners to smooth ballads. Expect music covering alt country, bluegrass, Celtic, and blues, along with band originals. And you might just hear some tales of the of the original “incident,” the ashes of which gave rise to their name.

A musical mainstay with the St Johnsbury Players, Barry Hayes has been working with local theater groups in varied capacities for over 25 years. He has sung the lead role in musicals such as Camelot, Kiss Me Kate, and Carousel. He wrote, directed, and performed in “The Musical Mystery Tour,” an original revue featuring the music of the Beatles. He has played guitar and bass for productions of Tommy, Wizard of Oz, Evita, and Jesus Christ Superstar. Tonight he brings the music of classic favorites like Peter, Paul and Mary, John Denver, the Eagles, and always and forever, the Beatles.

The acclaimed Vermont father-daughter duo, Bob & Sarah Amos, are on a roll, with a recent #1 song and #1 album on the national folk charts, and a live show that is being called “mesmerizing” and a “must see.” Their two shows at First Night North will feature selections from their new album “Ever Onward” as well as past favorites, ranging from folk, to Americana and Bluegrass. Joining Bob and Sarah will be three seasoned and talented pros of the New England acoustic music scene: Andy Greene on guitar and vocals, Bob Dick on mandolin, and Kirk Lord on bass.

This duo of Bill Quern and Sarah Gowan play traditional roots music from the American Appalachians and Europe, as well as original music, on multiple instruments. Their performances feature crankies, dance, songs, and audience participation. With a combined instrument collection that includes guitar, mandolin, concertina, melodeon, 4- and 5-string banjo, fiddle, harmonica, jaw harp, and foot percussion, Box and String is sure to have varied and entertaining program.

Vermont singer/songwriter Breanna Elaine’s music drips with plenty of earthy folk sounds, but also has undertones of rock, bluegrass, and even punk. She performs a mix of originals as well as a wide array of covers on both guitar and banjo. Comparisons have included the singer/songwriter Jewel, as well as legends Alanis Morissette and Stevie Nicks. Breanna is recognized for her unique sound and songwriting talent. Her first studio album,“Seedlings,” was released last January. But with over 100 original songs that are still to be recorded, this is just the beginning for Breanna Elaine, a true star on the rise.

Bringing more than ten thousand years of Abenaki tradition to his contemporary compositions, singer-songwriter Bryan Blanchette began powwow drumming more than two decades ago and soon after began writing Abenaki language songs. Bryan also studied at the Berklee College of Music in Boston. His acoustic set features mostly contemporary “Abenglish” songs, including some originals, and some “decolonized” iconic covers including “Let it Be” by the Beatles in Abenaki. Bryan transitions into some traditional songs featuring hand drum and rattle and talks about the culture past and present.

Big Sister Autumn, with twin sisters Lauren and Sadie, sing harmonies that are as close as their family relationship. With guitar and keyboard and Autumn’s gift of perfect pitch, the Chamberlain Sisters sing their pop classics and original songs right in tune.

Together for 14 years now, Chickweed is a women’s trio playing bass, guitar, and drums with their three-part harmony vocals. Chickweed puts together a lively show of almost all original folk, Latin, and blues music, written by Linda Warnaar. Once in a while they play an old favorite with a unique spin.

Come join Cirque Us for a night of high-flying fun as we ring in the New Year. This show will feature aerialists, acrobats, jugglers, clowns, and more! These artists come from world-class troupes including Cirque Us, Circus Smirkus, the New England Center for Circus Arts! This circus extravaganza will keep you on the edge of your seats for 45 minutes of non-stop circus fun! Their First Night shows are being staged in the St. Johnsbury School gymnasium because they needed a venue with a ceiling high enough for their awe-inspiring aerial acrobatics!

A warm and welcoming solo piano concert with established artist Dan Kennedy features his versions of traditional holiday carols with a few popular favorites mixed in, as heard on his recent Christmas CD “An Enchanted Noel.” See why Dan’s music has been streamed 640,000 times, played on 250 radio stations, and performed in 21 states. Composing music since the mid-1980s, Dan Kennedy has developed a distinctive voice in the solo piano field. Says Dan, “It’s been a very difficult couple of years for everybody in the world. So, I hope you enjoy the holidays this year, in whatever form they take for you – and enjoy your holiday music as well.”

Americana roots and folk duo, Dana and Susan Robinson combine vivid songwriting and storytelling, with fiddle tunes, banjo grooves, elegant melodies, and rich harmony singing. Drawing upon experiences of more than twenty years of touring, Dana and Susan craft a performance that conveys the mystery and wonders of their journey. Their unique blend of original songwriting and traditional Appalachian music bring to their performances a deep understanding of America’s musical heritage and how it relates to our contemporary lives.

Thrilled to be returning to First Night North, Dance Company at NCUHS explores several different styles of dance including, but not limited to, jazz, hip-hop, ballet, modern and lyrical/contemporary. Under the direction of Taryn Colby, students at this advanced level have the opportunity to both teach and create their own choreography. The first piece is choreographed by senior co-captain, Kaeleb Berthiaume and it won an award in Overall Performance and Artistry at the Vermont State Dance Festival this fall! The second group piece is a collaborative effort using improvisation, partner work and imagery to share a powerful message with our audience about trust and letting go. The last two pieces are a combined effort of choreography from three seniors in the group: Kaeleb Bethiaume, Charli Kellaway & Paul Petzoldt.

(They will be sharing the First Night stage with the Lyndon Institute Dance Company.)

João Paulo Carvalho—known in the Capoeira world as “Fronteira”—started learning Capoeira on the streets of his hometown Sao Joao Evangelista in the state of Minas Gerais, Brazil when he was 13 years old. He trained with different masters until in 2011 when he started training with Mestre Muralha, founder of the group DIDÊ Capoeira, when he was living in the city of Salvador, state of Bahia which is known for its richness in culture and especially in Capoeira. Fronteira, with the assistance of fellow capoeirista Vagalume, founded DIDÊ Capoeira VT in January 2022. They train in a Peacham, VT and have performed in the Northeast Kingdom at several St. J Final Fridays events, and in Hardwick.

Storyweaving is free flow storytelling filled with history, inspiration, and mirth. Djeli, formerly William Forchion, is a story weaver who helps transform “overwhelm” to “overjoy” for people of all ages and backgrounds. This former Cirque du Soleil acrobat has traveled the world collecting stories. Having to heal from a physical injury introduced Djeli to the need for healthy healing practices through story weaving. Djeli believes that no matter where we travel in the world, we laugh and cry in the same language. Djeli uses oral and written traditions, including poetry, to create an atmosphere of curiosity that speaks from the heart and helps breathe life into our own stories.

A Vermont -based solo acoustic act, Ethan Sawyer plays a variety of covers varying from Chris Stapleton, Bill Withers, and John Mayer. He also performs some original material that falls into the alternative pop/ singer songwriter genre. Alan Rowe, music director at St. Johnsbury Academy, remembers how Ethan, as a student, wowed all who heard him play. “His work ethic was evident as he would bury himself in a practice room every lunch break, working to master a new song. His rendition of “Crazy Train” played one day in Chapel is legendary!”

Planetarium shows will be offered every half hour on a “first-come, first-served” basis. This year’s First Night offerings are: “Tonight’s Sky” (5 & 6:30 pm), “Constellations and Cultures” (5:30 & 7:30 pm), and “Eclipse” (6, 7, & 8 pm).

Playing together for longer than any of them can remember, Fifth Business specializes in traditional and contemporary music, mostly about the kind of experiences that result from miscalculations and bad decisions. A touch of romance occasionally sneaks in, but agriculture, retirement planning, and dogs feature more prominently in the repertoire. Nick Anzalone leads with his versatile fiddle (formerly a violin). Stuart Corso creates depth with his voice and seemingly endless collection of button accordions, Heather Alger and Kate Davie contribute vocals and a bit of percussion, and Steve Davie keeps everyone in line with vocals, a guitar, and an octave mandolin. They have a spotless performance record: having appeared at farmers markets and grange halls throughout the Upper Valley, they have never once been thrown out of a venue.

Founded in 2022, Halcyon Chorale is a deeply committed group of singers whose goal is to bring the most beautiful and engaging choral music to the public, ranging from medieval chamber music to more current arrangements. Musically diverse, Halcyon Chorale counts trained singers, instrumentalists, composers, and conductors among its members. With a commitment to performances of a challenging and powerful repertoire, precise and nuanced ensemble, and a palpable joy in performance, Halcyon Chorale casts a bright and invigorating light on the present moment, bringing love and inspiration to the community.

Pianist and singer-songwriter Heather Pierson’s multi-genre songwriting places her in a category all her own. Her duo, with Shawn Nadeau on bass and vocals, performs a rich variety of Heather’s originals, jazz and blues standards, and unique re-workings of familiar classics. Honed by decades of diligent practice and curious exploration, their live performances feature their brilliant musicianship, stirring vocal harmonies, boundless joy, and a desire to share from the heart.

Hailing from all over Vermont, Highland Dance Vermont performs both contemporary and traditional Scottish highland dances to both bagpipe and modern Celtic music. Ranging in age from 12 to adult, they perform and compete locally, regionally, and across the U.S.

A one-of-a-kind composer, guitarist and singer-songwriter, Hiroya Tsukamoto fuses together folk, jazz, and world music. Born and raised in Japan, he began playing the five-string banjo when he was thirteen, and took up the guitar shortly after. A scholarship to Berklee College of music brought him to the United States. Hiroya’s instrumental abilities are breathtaking, but his performances are so much more than that. He has the unique capability of engaging an audience with his personable and genuine approach, transfixing and transcending his capabilities as a guitarist. Hiroya plays with effortless skill on the guitar and a repertoire that will have you traveling the world through his compositions. Hiroya headlines concerts throughout the U.S. as well as internationally including Blue Note in NYC, the United Nations, and Japanese National Television.

A ceilidh (pronounced “kay-lee”) is a Gaelic word usually referring to an informal evening of Scottish traditional music. Islay Mist Ceilidh is an engaging group from northern New Hampshire that is fast gaining a following as the freshest, most enjoyable collection of enthusiasts of traditional Celtic music in New England. The music is toe-tapping, hand-clapping friendly, and celebrates not only the Celtic heritage of our area, but a positive community-minded spirit as well.

Northeast Kingdom-based award-winning actor, director, voice-over talent, historian, and educator J.T. Turner is delighted to return to First Night with all new stories.
“Animal Trickster Tales” features critters from around the world. Hear from Coyote, Ananzi, Turtle, Siive the Giant and more!
“SNOW!” shares tales from all over the world with that one common theme. Enjoy engaging snowy stories for all ages from Greece, Germany, and even someplace called Vermont!

A First Night performance with Jon Gailmor is a celebration of people, places, events and moments that have shaped who he is. His music is fraught with emotion, poignancy, rampant childishness, and incessant audience involvement. It is geared toward humans – prenatal through prehistoric – and ranges from the outrageously relevant to the criminally, meaninglessly absurd. The songs are gluten-free, low in cholesterol, and guaranteed to uplift. Folks should be prepared to laugh, sing, grunt, scream and maybe just listen, from time to time, feeling quite hopeful, indeed, for 2024 and beyond.

Three seasoned Vermont entertainers – Jon Gailmor, Taryn Noelle and Dave Rowell – are a new collaboration who feature the best of the Gailmor’s originals, and some Motown classics, great American songbook standards, Broadway show tunes, folk, country, and a little bit of winter/holiday spirit thrown into the mix! Jon Gailmor is the true definition of a Vermont musical icon with his tremendous range, composing prowess, and incredible history of teaching and inspiring young songwriters in schools (as well as all of his adult colleagues!). Taryn Noelle has a voice that has been described as “clear and pure as a bluebird day on the ski slopes of Vermont.” Along with the phenomenal Dave Rowell on bass and vocals, this new trio hopes that you might stop by and spend a set with them on New Year’s Eve.

Showcase your own performance and singing chops at karaoke, hosted by Open Stage! Select from a wide selection of family-friendly tunes and sing your heart out at the Fairbanks Museum. Karaoke will be happening from 6:30-8:30pm. First come first served.

An auditioned-based ensemble dedicated to performing and teaching in their local community, the Lyndon Institute Dance Company aspires to bring dance education to the general public and younger students. They teach about the benefits of movement for lifelong wellness, dance as an artistic appreciation of people and culture, as well as dance as a means of expression, understanding and building connection. The L.I. Dance Company’s performance at First Night will embrace dance through interpretation of self and life’s adversities and showcase dance from various cultural aspects – modern/contemporary, jazz fusion, and thematic improvisation.
(They will be sharing the First Night stage with the Dance Company at North Country Union High School.)

As a certified Master Hypnotist and member of the National Guild of Hypnotists, Marko believes the participants in his shows are the stars, and he makes them shine. His hypnosis show starts a little past the hour and runs to around 11:30 pm to allow Marko enough time to wring every drop of comedy from his audience volunteers. Marko’s shows are designed for fun; no one is ever really embarrassed or compromised, even as they willingly obey his hilarious commands.

What makes Marko’s performances so special is his ability to mystify, entertain, and make everyone laugh on different levels at the same time. There’s nothing better than seeing grandparents, parents, and children all having a wonderful time together at the same show. Marko’s magic show truly transcends all age and social barriers to bring people together in a common state of amazement. See children’s faces as they watch Marko perform tricks, hear them laugh with sheer delight at his jokes, see their eyes sparkle. It’s then that you have seen the real magic.

Delivering a unique interpretation to a diverse variety of music, the Michael Hahn Trio’s repertoire spans popular country, rock, blues, Americana and alternative tunes, as well as several original songs. Michael Hahn has performed for decades with acclaimed dance bands including Hornbeam; Don’t Call Betty; Hoochie Lombardo; Whetstone, and Ten Mile Shuffle Band. An award-winning author of books and magazine columns, Hahn also was a finalist in the USA Songwriting Competition. He is joined by Sid Gulick, a retired nuclear physicist, on guitar and vocals; and John Pheiffer, who earned a performance degree in cello.

Tibetan vocal master Migmar Tsering shares traditional and modern music and songs from Tibet. Tsering accompanies himself on the dranyen, a long-necked, seven-stringed instrument. Born in Tibet, brought up in India, and a Vermonter since 2011, Tsering is a singer, songwriter, musician, composer, and Tibetan dance instructor. He is the founder of Burlington’s Rolyang Lobling (in English, “music class”) where he has worked with dozens of apprentices to make Tibetan music and dance happen in Vermont.

They come from many walks of life with a common love of writing songs and performing them. The Northern Vermont Songwriters share a stage for nearly two hours, taking turns singing and playing short sets of their wide variety of songs for each other and their First Night audience.

Carl Beverly has been writing and perfecting his distinctive, unique finger-picking style over the past ten years. Word on the street: “I’ve never heard anyone play guitar like that!” Carl’s strong rhythmic backbone will have you moving, and his songs will have you singing the very first time you hear them. His writing is strong, personal, and relatable. You will likely find Carl spreading his songs at area coffee houses, farmers markets, and music festivals as a solo performer or as part of the trio Picket Hill. Some of the songs on his CD “Ordinary Life,” have been played on Canada’s CCB Radio One and local New Hampshire airways.

James Lamar was recognized in 2021 as  the University of Vermont’s “Teacher of the Year” for his work as an elementary music teacher. James created his first musical, Alive, after receiving a Fund For Teachers grant to study American society’s foundation in the classical societies of Greece and Rome. Since then he has written four more musicals for children that integrate music, theater, and production into the learning experiences of the school community.

Jim Karns is an award-winning songwriter whose song, “Poor Town,” has been named Americana/Bluegrass Song of the Year by the Nashville songwriting group, Song Town. He is honored  to have shared the stage with members of Lynyrd Skynyrd, .38 Special, Molly Hatchet, and the Rossington Collins Band and has had the great pleasure of opening for Charlie Daniels.

Kim Darling is a multi-medium artist who landed in Vermont’s Northeast Kingdom following her studies in visual art at the Art Students League of New York. Writing, particularly poetry, has been a constant companion through her life of creating and teaching art. Kim’s focus has mainly been painting, drawing, and printmaking, but she has also made work in photography, video, and animation. When a few years back she decided to finally really learn to play the guitar, it dawned on her that her poetry had all along been begging to be songs.  As her guitar and songwriting teacher, Bob Amos, said to her, “You found a new medium.”

Michael Hahn attended Berklee College of Music and has entertained New England audiences for decades with such popular bands as Hornbeam, Don’t Call Betty, Hoochi Lombardo, Whetstone, and The Ten Mile Shuffle Band. Hahn was a finalist in the USA Songwriting Competition for his original song, “Chick Magnet.”

Scott Grenier was raised in a musical family amidst a vast array of musical styles: everything from classical, jazz and show tunes to country, folk, and R&B. However, it was his introduction to the alternative rock music of the 90’s that sparked his creative songwriting juices. Today, Scott has come full circle, writing music as varied as his musical experiences, while looking forward to releasing several new singles.

Sid Gulick lived in Montreal for about 40 years, going to school and then working at McGill University as a physicist before retiring and moving to northern Vermont.

Trevor Robinson writes idiosyncratic songs about the inner lives and outward dilemmas of regular and not-so-regular folks. His subjects range from Bingo nights, black-metal teens, polar bears and circus freaks to ex-cons, current-cons, folk singers, and house fires..

Victor Tremblay worked 23 years as a machinist in a paper mill. He started playing guitar and writing songs in his early teens, mostly self-taught. Bluegrass, folk, and classic country all find their way into his music. 7Days music critic Jordan Adams called his CD “a quirky and unpretentious slice of Northeast Kingdom goodness. It’s full of irreverent tunes and showcases the artist as a kooky hidden gem.”

From the far eastern realm of New Hampshire, all the way out to the western borderland of Burlington, Phoenix Bazaar has delighted young and old with their fiery antics. This odd assortment of fire artists is dedicated to exploring the balance of movement and flame with a range of props that include poi, fans, staff, hoop and swords. Where? Where else but near the St. Johnsbury Fire Department Main Street!

Pitz’s one-man show is a smile-creating, gyrating, unique entertainment experience that features didgeridoo, voice, percussion, and Grooves by Erving. The didgeridoo – that magical instrument from aboriginal Australia – has taken Pitz Quattrone from the Arctic Circle to the Equator performing and passing on what he has learned about the “didge.” This master player, builder, and teacher of the “didge” creates grooves that move! Pitz writes songs from tragic to comic, and everything in between. Whether manic and hilarious, or serious as a heart attack, Pitz is as unique as the didgeridoo itself.

Folky music brewed up by friends is the hallmark of Rake Factory Union. Steve Davie, Alycia Moore, and Nathan Colpitts write their collection of mostly original songs filled out by fellow musicians and vocalists Owen Davie, Hannah Davie, and Andrea Otto. Through bass, mandolin, banjo, fiddle, and guitar, Rake Factory Union explores themes of rural living, love and loss, with a healthy dose of humor for good measure.

From their upbeat, commanding stage presence and sharp banter, to their earworm-inducing melodies and heartstring lyrics, The Rough & Tumble are a self-described “dumpster-folk/thrift-store Americana duo.” Mallory Graham and Scott Tyler will have you in stitches one minute and falling apart at the seams the next. Joy and sorrow, comedy and drama all have the same punchline, it’s just the setup that’s different. The Rough & Tumble’s close harmony weave interchangeably between power and delicacy, the lighthearted to the gut wrenching. demonstrating restraint while sinking the accelerator to give each song its due.

Featuring Buzz Hubbard on guitar with John Goodrich on piano, and Phil Brown, on bass and vocals, the St. J. Jazz trio plays standards and classics from the American songbook, offered in a mellow tone. Their program for First Night will feature familiar holiday music for all ages. Come hear the boys “warm up” before their later sets with Swing North Big Band and The BelAires.

First Nighters are in for fast-paced comedy juggling, unicycling, balancing and rope-walking with lots of audience participation when Stephen Gratto takes the stage. Stephen is not just another product of a misspent youth. Sure, he put in lots of time as a kid mastering his tricks of the trade, but after six years spent yawning behind a computer at IBM, Stephen chucked his engineering career and became a middle school and high school physics teacher, as well as a professional performer. Physics and juggling are as closely related as teaching and performing, so Stephen has merged his careers together to create comedy variety shows for delighted audiences at festivals like First Night, where quality family entertainment is what it’s all about.

Veterans of story events like Story Telling VT, Extempo, and Wine & Story, Steve Parker and Susan Terry bring two sets of their favorites to First Night.
“Kitchen Table Stories” – Ridiculous, surprising, touching or almost unbelievable are the stories that make up this year’s “Kitchen Table Stories” by Steve Parker and Susan Terry. These stories have been told around their kitchen table to several generations of family and unsuspecting friends. Listen carefully and you may hear a story about a neighbor or someone you know, or just sit back and wonder at the predicament that one of us might have gotten into.
“Every Good Story Has a Name” – This year maybe it will be “The Airplane Story,” “Never a Princess,” “At the Vatican,” or even “The Composting Toilet.” You never know. Apparently these stories age well because there are always requests for them. Funny thing though, every time they are told, something new appears. Steve Parker and Susan Terry love these kinds of stories because they resonate – either because something similar happened to you or you thank your lucky stars that it didn’t.

Swing North Big Band plays classic swing and dance music with an 18-piece Big Band featuring Vermont and New Hampshire’s finest jazz musicians. Under the direction of Phil Brown, their program includes seasonal music and Big Band favorites, all for your listening pleasure. But feel free to get up from your seats in Fuller Hall to dance!

Singer-songwriter and guitarist Tod Pronto returns to First Night with his original songs and his humorous and energetic brand of storytelling. Pronto has shared the stage throughout New England with the likes of Ellis Paul, Jonathan Edwards, Livingston Taylor, and many more.

Drawing from his life and repertoire as both a poet and jazz bass clarinetist, Toussaint St. Negritude presents a dynamic solo performance of liberational truth-telling, collaboratively pairing the call of his poetry with the intuitive responses of the soprano, bass, and alto clarinets, the kalimba and additional instrumentation. Along with the music and poetry, he further extends the experience visually with his own self-designed hats and attire. As with the call of Vermont’s beloved mountains, St. Negritude’s work summons the soul to be held, heard, and seen.

With their irradiating mix of originals, traditional American, Cuban, reggae, rock, funk, and blues, Tritium Well produces ecstatic musical experiences that feel like sonic excursions around the Earth! Hot guitarist Bobby Farlice-Rubio leads this “radioactive” four-member ensemble with wicked violinist Nick Anzalone, world-class drummer Linda Warnaar, and brilliant bassist Kevin Colosa. When people ask what kind of music they play, the standard answer is always “roots, rock, and reggae!” just to satisfy the need for brevity. Their varied and uncommon repertoire includes songs made famous by Bob Marley, Jimi Hendrix, Hank Williams, Buena Vista Social Club, Leadbelly, Willie Nelson, Grateful Dead, Old Crow Medicine Show, among others. Whatever beat they play, feel free to get up and boogie!

Formed in 1986 as a live performance 15-minute radio show every Saturday morning on one of Vermont’s oldest stations, The WDEV Radio Rangers performed four songs between three ads, plus the opening and closing band theme song. They’re not on the radio anymore, but they’re still playing, though their personnel have changed over the years. The current Ranger line-up features Danny Coane (a member since 1993) on acoustic rhythm guitar and 5- string banjo; Dave Rowell (a WDEV ad salesman and member since 1987) on electric bass; Colin McCaffrey (not a Ranger until sometime later in the 2000’s) on electric lead guitar and fiddle, and Jim Pitman (formerly a guest “Deputy Ranger”) on pedal steel/dobro. All the Rangers add their unique vocals to the mix of vintage country, western swing, along with some Bluegrass and Rockabilly.