Now, fresh off early January's Jam Cruise, where both Brokedown and the Gramblers played, they are ready to do what they do best on dry land again.
Things really took off for the group a little over a year ago, when a cover of Hall and Oates "I can't go for that" was seen by almost two million people on YouTube. The video was shot inside the group's van on an iphone while they were rolling down the highway. It was part of a series of popular songs the band has covered in a continuing series called The Van Sessions. Part of the appeal of the band's stripped-down version of the song was Nicki's kazoo solo. The other part of it's appeal was that the band treated the song with obvious love.
But as popular as that was, it did not overshadow the fine originals on the group's great sophomore album "Driftwood." Recorded in husband Tim Bluhm's Mission Bells studio in San Francisco (where the couple reside), the album is a gem. Sounds that range from vintage country to folk and blues with great songs about unfulfilled yearnings, premeditated heartbreak and life on the road make the record a must listen. Nicki can sound tough and tender at times. Vulnerable or filled with verve at others. The Gramblers are no musical slouches either. Great music, great harmonies and some real nice subtle touches all over the place. Best of all, an unrushed vibe that is very inviting and makes a repeated listen welcome. Some of the highlights include "Jetplane," "Stick with me" and "Before you loved me."
The group are preparing to drop a new release in 2013 and if the pair of new tunes on the band's website are any indication, we will see them reach new heights this year.
Take a listen by going to the band's website.
http://www.nickibluhm.com/
Nicki Bluhm and the Gramblers w/ The Easy Leaves
Thursday, January 31 at 8p.m.
Harlow's Nightclub
$15
