The Waking Windows art and music festival, a key event in the Vermont music scene, is set to return from May 2-4, 2025, in Winooski. The festival, which began in 2011, offers a weekend of music and art and has rebounded since its pandemic hiatus, albeit on a more modest scale than before. The festival’s announcement hints at a lineup similar to 2024 and encourages attendees to stay tuned for more details.
In local music news, the indie band Paper Castles, led by Paddy Reagan, is gaining renewed attention as their back catalog is being made available on streaming platforms by New Orleans-based promotion company Sipsman. The band has also released a previously unheard B-side from their album “Acceptionalism” titled “Crooked and Narrow,” with a new record anticipated in 2025.
Additionally, local musicians Kyle “Fattie B” Thompson and Craig Mitchell will share their experiences and music in an event called Story Tellers at Vermont Comedy Club on February 27, with proceeds benefiting Spectrum Youth & Family Services.
New music releases include Madaila’s energetic single “Clementine,” which is part of an upcoming album titled “Night Cuisine,” as well as a new track and video from folk duo the Sleepy Weasels, featuring the song “Fever Dream.”
Lastly, the Wallflower Collective in Burlington has embraced a near-four-year residency by Willverine, led by Will Andrews, showcasing original music alongside various local artists. This ongoing engagement highlights the vibrant and evolving music scene in Vermont.
