STORIES OF STRANGERS

Grumlewood is a very nice surprise from far away - New Zealand, this young band relased a very smooth, elegant and inventive prog folk debut in 2020 named Stories of strangers. The sound of this album is an instant like, their vintage folk arrangements are like it was done in the glory days of prog folk the 70's, taken influences from Jethro Tull, Strawbs, Horslips or Steeleye Span among others.

Subtle passages, flute is the main instrument and is all over, a thing that I like a lot and in combination with the rest the result is a solid, playful prog folk album as must sound this type of music. Also there are besides prog folk some little bit of jazz combined with baroque, very well blended in overall sound. Because of using analog equipment and production the sound and overall atmosphere has that special vintage '70s vibe, a thing that must be appreciated, because they done it so well.

Grumblewood manage to sound like a distinctive band in today prog scene, even influnces exists, they really done right from the start, a very good record that must be praised more for sure, you do not hear every day this type of music or better said to sound so solid and damn well played. All musicians involved done a great job, and i hope will not be the only one album from them.

Easy 4 stars, recommended, plus the booklet and artwork is top, going hand in hand with the music. Magic