Music Review: Tumbler – ‘Come to the Edge’

Hailing from England, the band Tumbler released in July 2016 a 12-track album entitled Come to the Edge. The preferred genres of members Harry Grace (vocals, guitar), Richard Grace (vocals, guitar), and Dave Needham (guitar, keyboards, backing vocals) are rock and folk rock. However, this album is much more (acoustic) pop rock with folk elements peppered throughout.

There is a melodic theme that permeates the entire set with enough twists to make it seem short rather than interminably, repetitively long. The trio manages to do quite a lot with only guitars, vocals, and a keyboard, treating listeners to energetic rock tracks, angst-laden ones, melancholic tunes, and uplifting ballads.

The slightly throbbing, mid-tempo “Black Sheep” is a toe-tapping, engaging, and fun song, much like “Don’t Take Much”, although the latter features delicately chugging, attention-grabbing guitars. The vocals are emotive throughout the album and particularly in the dynamic “Falling”. This up-tempo, catchy number features a jangling electric guitar and an anthemic sound that seems to be coming from a band made up of members in their late teens/early twenties.

“Freedom the Cry” is even more anthemic while also encapsulating a sense of urgency—enhanced by a siren-like sound—alongside a feeling of grandiosity and importance. One cannot therefore ignore its message.

“Week” and “Winter Cold Heart” are somewhat angst-laden numbers (lyrically) reminiscent of lighter tracks by Green Day or Sum 41, albeit without the punk elements. “Nothing to Hold You”, “Dial”, and “Joanne” are melancholic songs, with the second one veering into straight-up sad territory. It features strings and is delicate to the point that at times, one almost expects the vocals to shatter from sadness. “Joanne” is pensive while “Nothing to Hold You” is unapologetic.

Three uplifting ballads round up the 12 songs on Come to the Edge. “Sweetest Thing” is, well, the sweetest thing on the album. This soothing and catchy mid-tempo number can even be described as adorable. “Diamond in a Drawer” and “In Safe Hands” are both slow and pensive, with the latter meditational at times.

Tumbler has put together a set that is well worth a listen. Tracks are available for streaming here. More information about the band is available on their official website and on their Facebook page.