Kris Gruen writes songs about grownup life infused with a mystic wonder, softening the world’s sharp edges like a glass of exceptionally fine bourbon. Kris grew up steeped in classic records. His Americana influenced new folk is grounded in the tradition of great narrative songwriters like Cat Stevens and Paul Simon and yet Kris’s voice is strikingly current. A New York City native who’s put down roots in Vermont, Kris effortlessly blends sagacious wit and emotional depth. His recent album Coast and Refuge has brought him together with other artists, writers and producers from around the globe to create a collection of songs that is being critically acclaimed worldwide.
Kris has shared stages across three continents with the likes of Anais Mitchell, Sean Lennon, The Avett Brothers, Alejandro Escovedo, The Bones of J.R. Jones, Jesse Malin, Craig Finn, Meadows, Motopony, Supla aand more.
“In danger of bursting, the big, full heart of Kris Gruen’s sweeping, contemporary folk-pop tour de force Coast & Refuge is brimming with hope and optimism.” – Elmore Magazine
“Coast & Refuge demands attention, and the result is easily one of the most resilient and refreshing efforts of the year so far.” – Goldmine
“Kris Gruen is a New York City native – now residing in Vermont – and it’s easy to hear why he’s been compared in hushed tones to the likes of Sufjan Stevens. His latest sees him really pushing his Americana influenced folk-rock in the tradition of some of the great narrative songwriters such as Paul Simon and Cat Stevens, and he also knows how to pull those euphoric levers a la Elbow. From start to finish, a real delight.” – The Crack
"Singer/songwriter Kris Gruen shakes the dust off folk music with a deeply soulful voice and melodic songwriting in the vein of The Avett Brothers or Ryan Adams. Those may seem like some pretty heady comparisons until you take a look at Gruen’s bona fides. With four studio albums, international tours with Jesse Malin and more recently Alejandro Escovedo, and a film score under his belt, Kris Gruen is quickly establishing himself as a standard bearer of the new folk scene." – KUTX
“Not what I was expecting. Described as folk-pop there’s a vast palate of sounds and flavors here, from bouncy power pop, to sunshine feel good jangle to introspective singer-songwriter and touches of Americana. Put him with Sufjan Stevens and Pete Yorn. All earnest and soul-stirring.” – The Ripple Effect
“Kris Gruen is one of those authentic singer-songwriters that you can’t help but love. Dedicated to his craft, with the talent of a true poetic lyricist, the Vermont based New York native keeps it simple and effective.” – NARC
Kris at the Joe Strummer Tribute, Bowery Ballroom NYC 12/15/19