Pebaluna: “No, I Can’t”

“No, I Can’t” is an ironic statement for Pebaluna. The featured band from Long Beach, California hints at nothing but sheer confidence and ability. Lauren Coleman is capable of leveling with her inspirations: Fiona Apple, Ella Fitzgerald, and Janis Joplin. Her persuasive tone peaks at a soothing decibel, inviting listeners to feel the song’s atmosphere. Behind her sweet words are Matt Embree on the guitar, Jonathan Grillo on the bass, and Jessica Lankford on the drums. The group takes in bits and pieces of folk, Motown, pop, and country into its core to construct trouble-free, joyful music.

First reaction: what does Pebaluna mean? What language is it? Actually, it refers to Coleman’s childhood Chihuahua, Pebbles. To Coleman, the chunky white pup was her little piece of the moon and called her “Pebble Luna.” With a small spelling change, the band became Pebaluna. And with such beautiful music, the beautiful name adds a garnish to the martini.

We can expect a full-length debut album from Pebaluna on September 18. The title, Carny Life, is derived from the supposed similarity between the life of a musician and a “carny,” being that both project extravagant paths and end up missing the mark. What to expect from Pebaluna’s first studio album? The kitchen sink… scraps of everything Coleman and Embree have gathered until this point. In two words, expect delight!