The LA band Gamble House have just released their self-titled debut and it’s one of the best debut albums of the year so far. Originally the solo bedroom project/work of Ben Becker, Gamble House has now grown in to a “band” and with it comes a stunning, intimate collection of songs that just sparkle.

However you want to file this one: be it under “orch-pop” or “baroque indie-rock” or Grizzly Bear-esque, or “sort of like Beirut but a heckuva lot pretentious” – the sound of this record is lush and filled with charming instrumentation and smart arrangements. Tympani drums and cymbal crashes collide with dramatic instrumentation. Swirling psychedelic folk songs become whimsical multi-harmony epics on a heartbeat, and Becker’s vocals have a confident gentleness to them that reminds me a tad of Justin Vernon and Jeff Buckley when he sings up there in that angelic range. As emotional as his vocals are, he’s also playful. The songs exhibit a lot of control, even as they seem to be teetering on the chaos of ornateness.

Ben Becker and his band are carving out a musical vibe all of their own with an incredible collection of songs worthy of your devotion.

Central Park – Gamble House

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