Paper Castles:

Burlington, Vermont’s Paper Castles is a slacker rock quartet led by Paddy Reagan, known for their laid-back vibe and introspective songwriting. Since their lo-fi debut *Bleating Heart* in 2011, the band has been a fixture in the local scene.

After a decade-long hiatus following 2013’s *Vague Era*, Paper Castles returns with "First Blush," the debut single from their upcoming album *Acceptionalism*. The new track, recorded by Ryan Power and mixed by Urian Hackney of Rough Francis, adds a punchier edge to their signature sound.

The accompanying video, directed by Kayhl Cooper, captures the band's intimate, homegrown spirit, featuring a kitchen performance with Reagan and bandmates Liz Stafford, Wren Kitz, and Brennan Mangan. With *Acceptionalism*, Paper Castles continues to carve out their unique space in indie rock.

Osage Orange:

Osage Orange, the musical project of singer-songwriter Nick Varisano, blends atmospheric synths and textured guitars to create a sound he calls "electric desert folklore." Following a snowboarding accident that left him unable to play traditional instruments, Varisano turned to synths and drum machines, resulting in the creation of *Snake Skin Chants*, a captivating departure from the band's earlier alt-folk roots. The album, recorded in Austin with longtime friend Roger Paul Mason, showcases Varisano's evolving sound, marked by haunting melodies, retro-futuristic vibes, and a persistent sense of resolve.

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