Grace Stumberg - Affect
2012, Popadelic Records
Grace
Stumberg proves that big things come in small packages. The 4’11” singer/songwriter from Buffalo, New
York has a voice as big and powerful as she is small. Her 2011 debut album, To Whom It May Concern, was a groundbreaking fresh of air that
mixed unusually subtle songwriting for a 22-year old with an unusual musical
conscience. Stumberg remakes herself
with her sophomore effort, Affect,
finding a heartier, soulful vocal sound and a more confident stance as a
songwriter.2012, Popadelic Records
Stumberg starts out by lampooning pop culture and clichés about what it takes to make it as a performer in "Flaunt This". The song reflects a maturing worldview and sense of self that is healthy and fired by a tell it like it is attitude. Stumberg's voice has a sultry and soulful side that was less evident on her debut. The result is a splendidly acerbic pop song full of a sensual anger. "America's Got Talent" is a tuneful and buoyant song of disaffection with the state of music, lamenting the fact that so many people both within the industry and without forget that it’s all about the music. “Song For Grace Potter” is a gritty call out by Stumberg of a one-time idol who went corporate. It’s a classic “you sold out” message, but the air of condescension here is a bit pretentious from one so young, and doesn’t necessarily reflect well on Stumberg. It is, however, a fine way to garner some attention, calculated or otherwise.
“So Cruel”
plays on the theme of relationship games. It’s a taunting number that finds
Stumberg in her upper range for much of the song. While capable here, her comfortable range is
down an octave, the combination of pitch and drawn out vocal line borders on
uncomfortable at times. “Limbo” explores
the sort of relationship purgatory where one of the two simply stops
communicating. The frustration and need
here are palpable, and Stumberg is in her best voice. “Happier Side” is a song of desperation for
hope, and fitting for the times we live in.
Stumberg’s band moves together as if one organism and she fires the song
from the opening notes with a voice that sounds iconic.
“It’s No
Good” is a bit generic in construction, but thrives on the strength and
personality in Stumberg’s voice. “Root
Beer Fairy” on the other hand, is a silly/fun party song with a dark side. Stumberg lets down her hair and rocks out
with her locks out, selling the song through conviction and force of
personality. “Ring Song” is an angry
diatribe about a friend getting married.
The message is a warning, but there’s an undercurrent of anger her that
suggests deeper investment perhaps. The
arrangement matches the message in-line, full of angry guitar hooks and some
devastating solos. Stumberg brings the
curtain down with a dreamy, acoustic number called “Appreciate”. The song itself is impressive, but the
recording itself sounds very much out of place, having the messy aura of a demo
recording alongside all of the highly polished rock and roll that came before.
Grace
Stumberg continues to grow as a singer, songwriter and performer. Her efforts on Affect speak to some wonderful successes and also some distinctive
growing pains. Stumberg offers firm
stances and strong opinions in song in a rapidly maturing voice. Stumberg might overreach at times, but she’s
certain to get attention in the process.
Musically, the album is very well done, and Stumberg continues to have
one of the most intriguing young voices in rock music.
Rating: 4 Stars (Out of 5)
Learn more at
www.gracestumberg.com.