It pains me to report that DJ A-Dog's house burned down early this morning. I just got off the phone with Nastee — A-Dog's VT Union collaborator and a fellow DJ — who told me that everyone was able to get out of the house unharmed, though there has been no sign of A-Dog's cats.

The BFD won't let A-Dog back into the house to see if anything is salvageable, as of this posting. But most of the DJ's records and equipment were in the house when it burned and it's likely safe to assume the loss is significant.

Nastee informed me that benefit shows are already in the works. I have no doubt that the Burlington music community will rally behind and support A-Dog to help soften the blow. I'll be sure to keep you folks updated as details emerge.

I can't say that I know Andy well, but he and VT Union were among the first local musicians to reach out to me when I assumed the role of Seven Days Music Editor. In particular, A-Dog put together a series of mix tapes to help educate me in the history of hip-hop and turntablism. He is one of the most genuine people I've encountered in my time covering VT music. And one of the most talented.

Thoughts and prayers . . .