Tumbler - You Said (Self-Released)

Tumbler is a trio from Epsom, England; comprised of Richard Grace, and son, Harry Grace, and Dave Needham. On their new album, You Said, the arrangements are quirky and offbeat, and, yet, instantly catchy. Folky and subtly psychedelic, the range of styles varies, but the best songs by far are the Kinksian jaunty pop numbers like “Moments (She Reappears)” and “London Girl,” with wistful, breathy *Donovan*-like vocals. The band also excels naturally at harder, mod-ish numbers like “Don’t Think Twice (She Says),” and “Businessman Blues.”

Yet it is the lyrics here that are the true stars of this album. With clever wordplay and vivid imagery, Richard Grace’s songs express sentiments like an impressionist painting. Simplistic and gentle folk arrangements serve up a finely tuned sense of storytelling on the almost-twee “Dennis and Jean” and “Flowers and Miracles.” Harry Grace also offers up two fine songs as well: the moody, soulful “Bueller,” and the string-laden, anthemic “Break or Fall.” For a first release, Tumbler has reached deep and put everything into You Said, making for a fantastically genuine and honest experience. You Said will be out September 14th.