Kyle Thomas is a musical lifer. Best known to audiences under the moniker King Tuff, Thomas first heard the siren call of rock and roll as a young child when he was given his first record player. That simple gift was a sort of rosetta stone moment for Kyle that led to an existence fueled by the power of rock and roll.

Growing up in Brattleboro, Vermont, Thomas began playing in bands at a very early age, immersing himself in the world of hardcore. By the time he had reached the end of high school, Kyle was exploring American underground bands like The Modern Lovers, and soaking up The Smiths. Soon, he began working under the moniker King Tuff and began his own record label, MUP in 2005.

For the last two decades King Tuff has churned out some of the most exciting and interesting records in the world of indie rock. Refusing to be pinned down with a narrow genre definition, Thomas continues to draw his own connections between seemingly disparate sonic worlds as he easily meshes elements of folk, power pop, southern rock, and even metal into his work.

During our conversation, Kyle shares some of the evolution behind his sound, including the ways he has seen his songwriting change and mature. We cover some of the massive changes in the music industry since Kyle first started some 20 years ago, as we dive deep into the rising costs of touring. Kyle also shares why most venues suck, and he reminds us all of the importance of the album cover, even in the age of spotify.

Kyle Thomas has not only built an impressive legacy of recorded work, he is also an incredibly affable dude that I found to be a delight. He is, in short, a great hang. So come join me and King Tuff as we talk Vermont, psych-folk, musical Yodas and so much more.

Let’s get into it.

Cheers,

Matty C

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End Credits

Thanks so much to Kyle for joining me. You can find King Tuff’s work wherever you get your music. Please buy local whenever you’re able.

The What Am I Making podcast is hosted, written, and produced by me, Matty C.

Our theme music was written and recorded by David J. Baldwin.

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