Album Review: Ethan Gruska Is En Garde
En Garde is a fencing term, which means to be in defense. As a singer for the perplexities of love, from a divorcing household to an exiting ex, Ethan Gruska has always managed to get to the nuance of heartbreak. It is not that just we cry over losing someone we loved as much as we wallow in the idea that we are unloveable. Perhaps, our heart’s shattering was deserved or preventable? In En Garde, the defense is up and Gruska’s lyrics remain poignant while his sound takes newer turns.
Ethan Gruska “On the Outside” [Official Music Video]
I have seen Gruska live, and, admittedly, I love it when it is just him and a piano. For me, Gruska’s voice sours with simplicity because he has an inherent whimper to his vocality. Something about his voice feels filled with weeps and wonders, which is why his verses come off as both detailed and intelligent. He is the “smart guy” trying to understand the most complex, even irrational feeling of all: LOVE. Thus, tracks like, “Attacker,” “ Dialing Drunk,” “Maybe I’ll Go Nowhere,” and “On The Outside” shine in the record because they embraces his narrative style. He truly is a “story-teller” singer; the artist that creates songs where a melody and a verse feel like a loving pair holding hands. Still, the record is a new side for Gruska.
Ethan Gruska “Enough For Now (feat. Phoebe Bridgers) ” [Official Music Video]
From “Enough For Now” or “Event Horizon,” Gruska’s music seemingly embraces the digitized world and 80’s tempos that are soaring through current music. While I am TOTALLY HERE FOR IT! I was surprised. These tracks make me want to put on neon-pink head bands and tie-dye mom jeans to embrace that life is something you never fully grasp. At times, I “get it,” but most of the time it is mystery. With such truth feeling central to En Garde’s theme, you cannot beat that Gruska’s voice is like honey being poured on our coffee souls; yes, we are jittered being but at least there is something smooth and saccharine to our souls. For More Information On Ethan Gruska Click Here.
