Introduction
At Maple City Music, we celebrate artists who create meaningful connections through music.
Some artists entertain.
Some artists inspire.
And some artists challenge listeners to reflect on life's struggles, uncertainties, and opportunities for growth.
This week's Vermont Artist of the Week features Shiny New Toyz, a Saint Albans-based band whose blend of hard rock, progressive influences, metal, and emotionally driven songwriting has earned them recognition as one of Vermont's most promising original acts.
Combining powerful vocals, layered guitars, dynamic rhythms, and thoughtful lyricism, Shiny New Toyz has developed a sound that is uniquely their own. More importantly, their music is rooted in the belief that music can inspire transformation and help listeners navigate the complexities of the human experience.
Vermont Roots
Vermont's music community has long been defined by artists who value authenticity, creativity, and artistic independence.
Shiny New Toyz embodies those qualities.
Based in Saint Albans, the band has built its identity around creating original music that reflects genuine experiences rather than following trends or fitting neatly into a particular genre.
Their songs explore themes that resonate with listeners from all backgrounds, including personal struggle, self-discovery, resilience, uncertainty, and personal growth. Rather than offering simple answers, the band encourages listeners to reflect on their own experiences and find meaning within the music.
That willingness to engage with complex emotions has become one of the defining characteristics of their work.
The Band Behind the Music
Shiny New Toyz is composed of vocalist and lyricist Suzie Tremblay, guitarists Shawn Toussaint and John Notaro, bassist Bradley Woodward, and drummer Forrest Thomas.
Together, they create music that balances emotional depth with musical ambition.
The band's combination of melodic songwriting, powerful vocal performances, layered guitar textures, and dynamic rhythm sections allows them to move comfortably between hard rock, progressive rock, and metal influences while maintaining a distinct artistic identity.
Their chemistry as musicians is evident throughout their catalog and continues to drive their creative evolution.
The Evolution of LORE
The band's latest release, LORE, showcases their continued growth as songwriters and performers.
Released in February 2026, the EP demonstrates a band confidently expanding its creative vision while remaining true to its artistic foundation.
Featuring tracks such as Illusion, Sign of the Time, and Arrow, LORE explores themes of perception, personal empowerment, adversity, and perseverance. The release highlights the band's ability to combine heavy, melodic arrangements with meaningful lyrical content that encourages deeper reflection.
Rather than simply delivering powerful performances, Shiny New Toyz creates music that invites listeners to engage with the ideas and emotions at the center of each song.
The result is a listening experience that rewards both casual fans and dedicated music enthusiasts.
Professional Insights
One of the qualities that makes Shiny New Toyz stand out within Vermont's independent music scene is their commitment to artistic authenticity.
Many artists focus on fitting within a particular genre or appealing to current trends. Shiny New Toyz instead prioritizes honest expression and meaningful storytelling.
Their willingness to explore vulnerability, resilience, and personal growth lends their music an emotional depth that resonates with audiences long after the final song ends.
The band's ability to balance musical complexity with accessibility also demonstrates maturity, positioning them as an emerging act worth watching within the broader New England music community.
Recognition Within Vermont's Music Community
As their audience continues to grow, Shiny New Toyz has earned recognition from organizations dedicated to supporting independent music throughout Vermont.
The band has been featured by Big Heavy World and appeared on Rocket Shop Radio, helping introduce their music to new audiences across the state and beyond.
These opportunities reflect both the quality of their work and their commitment to originality, creativity, and community engagement.
Their continued growth serves as a reminder of the talent and artistic diversity that exists within Vermont's independent music scene.
The Maple City Music Perspective
At Maple City Music, we believe local artists play a critical role in preserving and advancing Vermont's music culture.
As a veteran-owned Vermont business, we are committed to supporting musicians who create meaningful work, contribute to their communities, and inspire future generations of artists.
Shiny New Toyz exemplifies many of the qualities we admire: authenticity, artistic integrity, strong musicianship, and a willingness to create music that connects with people on a deeper level.
Their dedication to originality and thoughtful songwriting makes them a valuable part of Vermont's evolving musical landscape.
Conclusion
Great bands create memorable songs.
Exceptional bands create meaningful connections.
Shiny New Toyz continues to do both.
Through powerful performances, thoughtful songwriting, and an unwavering commitment to artistic authenticity, they are helping shape the future of Vermont's independent music community.
Whether listeners are drawn to hard rock, progressive influences, metal, or emotionally driven storytelling, Shiny New Toyz offers an engaging, memorable listening experience.
Supporting Vermont Music
The strength of Vermont's music scene depends on listeners who support local artists, attend performances, share music, and champion original creativity.
Shiny New Toyz represents the passion, dedication, and artistic spirit that make Vermont's independent music community so vibrant.
If you haven't heard Shiny New Toyz yet, now is the time.
Discover local music.
Support independent artists.
Keep Vermont music thriving.
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Browse our latest arrivals and discover records that deserve a place on your turntable.
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Maple City Music Closing Statement
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