The rustic music of folk-pop singer/songwriter Kris Gruen is almost entirely suggestive of his hometown of Montpelier. The lushly remote capital of Vermont, New England’s most folksy and possibly beard-iest state, provides a gorgeous and peaceful backdrop for any artist in touch with their natural side, and Kris Gruen holds no exception.
However, the newest release from Gruen, the anthemic “What Brings You”, is a coastal shift in Gruen’s approach. Where Gruen’s previous releases call to mind beer hall sing-alongs and bucolic romances, “What Brings You” is large and powerful, amplified by shimmering pop production courtesy of Los Angeles producer Brad Gordon.
“What Brings You” employs the massive hooks and sing alongs that have become synonymous with neo-folk superstars like Mumford & Sons and The Lumineers, while still maintaining the folksy charm and authenticity of the New England countryside. Gruen invites us to partake in his wide-eyed vision of the southern California oceanside in all of its humbling glory, and for a snow-buried New Englander, the invitation has never sounded better. Stream “What Brings You” below, and look out for Coast & Refuge, out on July 22nd via Mother West. -Charley Ruddell