Senior Grace Contino was introduced to local Burlington band Love & Valor when she first came to Elon in 2018. Now, looking back, she said she realized just how much of an impact the band made. Love & Valor was voted “Best Local Band/Musician” by the Elon community. 

Love & Valor is an up-and-coming folk band based out of Burlington. The band has been highly recognized in the North Carolina folk scene since 2012 and is known for performing original music. 

The band is made of five members: Jesse Fox on lead vocals and guitar, Glen Bounds on accordion, bass, banjo and harmonica, Nick Allen on fiddle, Elias Addleman on standup bass and Charlie Perschau on mandolin.

Filled with upbeat melodies and energetic harmonies, Contino said the band’s live shows instill a sense of community and intimacy among its audience. 

“Love & Valor has such good energy. I especially love how their legacy has been carried on in North Carolina. It is so special and important to me,” Contino said.  

Senior Catherine Nester said the sound of the band is very unique and something everyone should listen to. 

“I’ve seen Love & Valor at a few shows around town and they’re always so fun,” Nester said. “The music is great and everyone ends up singing and dancing along with them.”