Returning to Vermont reinvigorates King Tuff’s rock ‘n’ roll roots
Returning to Vermont has been a significant turning point for Kyle Thomas, known by his stage name King Tuff. After over a decade in Los Angeles, the rocker found himself back in the city for a tour in support of his latest album, “MOO.” However, the experience felt surreal to him, as he had made the decision to move back to Vermont just a year prior.
During his time in Los Angeles, Thomas had felt the pressure to immerse himself in the bustling city life and social scene. However, upon returning to Vermont, he discovered a different kind of community and connection that he hadn’t experienced before. For Thomas, settling down in the Northeast Kingdom provided him with the space and inspiration he needed to reconnect with his artistic roots.
Living in Vermont has allowed Thomas to embrace what he describes as “the art life,” a concept inspired by filmmaker David Lynch. In this serene setting, surrounded by nature and the changing seasons, Thomas found a new sense of emotional depth in his music. He attributes much of his creative energy to the peaceful and contemplative environment of Vermont, which contrasts sharply with the distractions of urban life in Los Angeles.
Thomas channeled this newfound inspiration into his latest album, “MOO,” which sees a return to his rock ‘n’ roll roots. Recorded on an old tape machine, the album features gritty guitars and raw vocals that reflect a more stripped-down and intimate aesthetic. Gone are the keyboards and strings of his previous recordings, replaced by a more direct and energetic sound that captures the essence of Thomas’ live performances.
In a bold move, Thomas decided to leave Sub Pop, the iconic indie label, to start his own imprint, MUP. This decision reflects a growing trend among musicians to take control of their careers and find new ways to navigate the challenges of the music industry. Thomas views this transition as an opportunity to sustain himself as an artist and maintain a deeper connection to his music and his audience.
As he prepares to wrap up his “MOO” tour with shows in Vermont, including a performance at Higher Ground in South Burlington, Thomas is excited about the new chapter he has embarked on. He sees this period of change and renewal as a chance to grow creatively and explore new possibilities in his music. For King Tuff, returning to Vermont has been a homecoming that has reignited his passion for rock ‘n’ roll and set the stage for an exciting future in the music industry.