Nicki Bluhm and The Gramblers’ self-titled new debut was just released August 27, but the San Francisco-based band built up a lot of internet steam before any recording success. The Gramblers are made up of Nicki’s husband Tim Bluhm (previously of The Mother Hips), Deren Ney, Steve Adams (ALO), Dave Mulligan and Mike Curry.
I stumbled on their “Van Sessions,” where the band does cover songs in between gigs. Bluhm & Co are singing and instrument carousing as they cruise from town to town, recording using an iPhone.
Their amazing and stripped down cover of Hall & Oats’ “I Can’t Go For That” went viral a few months ago, and proved how critical social media can be for up-and-coming bands. The attention ramped up this album release and bumped the band up to a headlining act.
The album is entirely original songs, but they have the same familiar, sing-along feel as the Sessions. It summons up blues-infused, west coast country with vintage soul.
It is whimsical but hardy (and hearty) and absolutely timeless. Listening to it was like what I bet my mom felt like when she put the needle down on a Joni Mitchell record, and just sat listening to it way back when. I’m not sure there’s a better compliment for an album than my own technology-free fugue state for a full three songs, because I was just listening too.
Bluhm is a softer, but in some ways stronger Grace Potter with Mitchell’s steadiness. But she is in no way an imitation of anyone – every word and note is starkly genuine and sincere. Even though she has been performing for over five years, her voice has an intimate quality, like she’s idly singing while driving or washing dishes.
Part of the reason you feel like you’re in the room with her is because of how imperfect the album is – the musically airbrushed sound we’ve grown accustomed to is gone. Listening to it is raw and unfettered. Bold.
Listening through from “Little Too Late” to “Willow Tree,” I’m Nicole Kidman, singing as I drive through the desert in “Practical Magic,” chain smoking in a suede jacket with really awesome hair. That is the very specific vibe of Nicki and her Gramblers.
Nicki Bluhm is the kind of impossibly effortless cool that makes you makes you want to throw everything in your closet out. She is tomboyish with Zooey Deschanel-sized eyes behind her shaggy bangs, with a sexy, sultry voice. On stage, she usually ups the awesome ante by rocking high waisted bell bottoms and a freaking denim vest.
She can cover Whitney Houston and totally pull it off. Before watching it happen, I never even thought that was possible.
So right now, go get into a warm bath and listen to “Nicki Bluhm and The Gramblers” – it will make your life and thoughts feel meaningful, big and open. The only letdown comes an hour later when the last song ends, then everything is the same and not special again.
Take a listen (it’s streaming on spotify, fyi) and let us know what you think!
