THUS LOVE, an indie-rock band from Brattleboro, Vermont, has gained notable success since their debut album “Memorial” in 2022. Founding members Lu Racine and Echo Mars reflect on how their lives remain grounded despite their rising fame, still holding day jobs and engaging in local activities. The band’s eclectic sound, mixing new wave, post-punk, and indie rock, has captured attention from major publications and music festivals internationally.
Rather than relocating to a larger city to record their sophomore album, THUS LOVE opted for a more personal approach by using a barn converted into a studio near Brattleboro. Their new LP, “All Pleasure,” released on November 1, is underscored by their motto: “If it’s not joyful, don’t do it.” This ethos facilitated a creative process focused on enjoyment and camaraderie within the band.
The path to creating “All Pleasure” wasn’t without challenges, as they faced the departure of bassist Nathaniel van Osdol. This prompted Racine and Mars to invite Ally Juleen and her former bandmate Shane Blank to join, expanding the band’s sound through their addition. The title track stands out with a harder, grungier aesthetic, contrasting with the ’80s influences of their first album.
THUS LOVE’s journey encapsulates an evolution in their music while maintaining authenticity. As they celebrate their new release with a mini-tour, Racine emphasizes the dichotomy of their life between touring Europe and returning to their local scene. With “All Pleasure,” the band showcases growth, creativity, and a commitment to their roots while inviting their audience to share in their joy.