A night of celebration and sound at the 2025 Eddies Awards

Album of the Year Goes to Zan & the Winter Folk for “New Morse Code”

SCHENECTADY—The spirit of the 518’s vibrant music scene was alive and loud at Proctors Sunday, April 27 as the Capital Region Thomas Edison Music Awards—fondly known as the Eddies—returned for another unforgettable evening of performances, recognition, and community pride.

Now in its seventh year, the Eddies continues to honor the incredible talent that defines music in the Capital Region. With over 30 categories spanning genres, disciplines, and contributions both on and off the stage, this year’s event brought together artists, producers, educators, venues, and fans for a night that felt more like a family reunion than an awards show.

Eddies Producer Kelly Auricchio said, “The Eddies Music Awards are a night where the music community comes together to recognize, reflect, and celebrate the incredible talent around us. It’s not just about awards or accolades; it’s about giving artists and music professionals a stage to be seen and appreciated by their peers and their city. With so many people hustling, creating, and contributing all year long, the Eddies are a reminder that their work matters, inspires others, and that we’re all part of something bigger.”

Among the standout moments of the evening was the announcement of Album of the Year, awarded to Zan & the Winter Folk for “New Morse Code.” This project, a rich fusion of folk storytelling and chamber music precision, captured the ears, and hearts, of listeners. It stood out not just for its haunting melodies and lyrical depth, but also for its inventive orchestration and emotional resonance.

“We’re so honored, this really wasn’t expected at all! We worked really hard on this record, and it feels amazing to be recognized for it,” they said.

The project, their first full length album, has been praised for tracks that range from quietly powerful ballads to rhythmically dynamic pieces, each anchored by a sense of emotional honesty and musical craftsmanship. It’s no surprise that this collaboration struck a chord with both audiences and critics alike.

The evening opened with a powerhouse performance by Blasé DeBris, setting an electric tone for the night. The event featured performances by a dynamic roster of local artists, including CAMTRON5000, Zorbas Trio, Shannon Tehya and The Troupe, and Margo Macero. The show was expertly emceed by Capital Region favorite DJ Trumastr, who also teamed up with DJ Nate da Great for a crowd-rousing set that had audience members dancing in the aisles.

Among the night’s award highlights, Buggy Jive and Caity Gallagher shared honors in the only tie of the evening for Songwriter of the Year. Girl Blue won Record of the Year for “To the Bone.” The rising star has been featured on Spotify’s “New Music Friday” playlist.

“Writing music is my favorite part of what I do in life, and the fact that I’m being recognized for that in the Capital Region – I’m very grateful. I’m grateful to everybody that is part of hiring me to perform at their venues, and listening to my music, and enjoying what I play,” said Gallagher.

As the Eddies continue to spotlight the diverse and vibrant voices of the Capital Region, these wins mark a proud moment for local music—a reminder that innovation and authenticity are alive and thriving in the 518.

Whether it was emerging talent stepping into the spotlight or seasoned veterans being honored for decades of contribution, the 2025 Eddies reminded everyone why the Capital Region punches well above its weight when it comes to music.

The Eddies Music Awards announces new co-presenting partnership with WEXT Radio

The Eddies Music Awards is entering a new era. Starting next year, the awards will be co-presented by WEXT Radio (97.7/106.1 FM, a longtime supporter and pillar of the Capital Region’s music scene.

WEXT has played a crucial role in supporting the Eddies since its inception, from broadcasting the stories of Hall of Fame inductees to championing local talent through its programming. This new partnership deepens the Eddies’ roots within the music community, putting its future in the hands of the people it celebrates most: the artists, venues, producers, and fans.

“WEXT has always believed in the transformative power of local music,” said Auricchio. “Having them take on a leadership role in this next chapter makes perfect sense, and we’re excited about where we can go together.”

WEXT’s Andy Gregory and Chris Wienk were on-hand to share the announcement and take the stage to present the night’s final four awards.

2025 Eddies Awards Winners:

• Electronica Artist of the Year: Armbruster
• Punk/Hardcore Artist of the Year: Zombie Giuliani
• Metal/Hard Rock Artist of the Year: The Erotics
• Live Production Crew of the Year: Live Sound Inc.
• Record Label of the Year: Cacophone Records
• Music Recording Studio of the Year: White Lake Music & Post 
• Presenter/Promoter of the Year: Caffè Lena – Sarah Craig
• Seasonal Indoor Venues/Concert Series of the Year: Live and Local at The Linda         
• Radio Station of the Year: WEXT 97.7, 106.1
• Radio DJ of the Year (terrestrial or streaming): Andy Gregory
• Arts Publication of the Year (print, TV or new media): Metroland Now!
• Music Journalist of the Year: Kirsten Ferguson
• Music Photographer of the Year: Stephanie Bartik
• Classical Artist/Ensemble of the Year: Albany Symphony Orchestra
• World Music Artist of the Year: Alex Torres & His Latin Orchestra
• RnB/Soul/Funk Artist of the Year: The E-Block
• DJ of the Year: DJ Hollyw8d
• Party Cover Band of the Year: Off The Record
• Hip Hop/Rap Artist of the Year: JB!! aka Dirty Moses
• Americana Artist of the Year: Zan & the Winter Folk
• Solo or Duo Artist of the Year: Caity Gallagher
• Solo or Duo Performer of the Year (Covers): Jeff Brisbin
• Jazz Artist of the Year: Hot Club of Saratoga
• Jam Band of the Year: Glass Pony
• Blues Artist of the Year: Annie and the Hedonists
• Country/Bluegrass Artist of the Year: Jim Gaudet and the Railroad Boys
• Rock Artist of the Year: Super 400
• Pop Artist of the Year: Sydney Worthley
• Alt/Indie Artist of the Year: E.R.I.E.
• Folk/Traditional Artist of the Year: Deb Cavanaugh
• Songwriter of the Year: Buggy Jive
• Songwriter of the Year: Caity Gallagher
• Record of the Year: “To the Bone” – Girl Blue
• Album of the Year: “New Morse Code” – Zan & the Winter Folk
• Music Video of the Year: “Film Noir Double Feature” – Dust Bowl Faeries
• Merit Award: Diver Library “Let’s Make a Song!” Project
• Merit Award: No One You Know Presents Tortured Poets Concert Series

For more information and photos from the event visit theeddiesawards.com.