2006 showcasing artist for both SXSW and CMJ, and Lullaby School was voted one of the top ten records of 2006 by both Seven Days and The Burlington Free Press (Vermont's two major newspapers).

Deftly plucked banjo strings and soothing vocals on Lullaby School point to a tasteful array of Americana influences-- Bright Eyes, Sufjan Stevens and Jeff Buckley to recall a few. Moods that at once haunt, then embolden, then lament with somber fragility.

On Lullaby School, Kris employs a bevy of rarified instrumentation (e.g. marxophone, sitar and melodica) without allowing the unique layering and complex arrangements to detract from what are delicately, intimate songs. Gruen's essential offerings lie in his control of language and the vocal prowess with which he delivers it.