Few popular artists write music that go beyond the cliches of falling in and out of love, and Nick Drake was one of them. He created beautiful imagery with his imaginative guitar work and his subdued, comforting voice.
His album Bryter Layter is a good example of what he has to offer. It’s adorned with gentle flute melodies, some orchestral involvement and even a sax for jazz sensibility. The lyrics are about feelings many relate to. Nick sings about finding one’s place in the world, navigating urban life, dealing with regrets, and other personal struggles.
My personal favourite is Hazey Jane 1. He directly addresses the listener in this song.
“Do you feel like a remnant of something that’s past
Do you find things are moving just a little too fast”
There are other feelings he sings about too. Hazey Jane 2 is about feeling lost after leaving the safe haven of your family. At The Chime of The City Clock is about feeling alienated in a big city. He also expresses his struggle for self-acceptance in Poor Boy.
Nick usually ends these songs on a hopeful note, advising the listener what to do.
“So try to be true, even if it’s only in your hazey way”
There are several instrumental gems on the album too, and he transports the listener to beautiful places with them.
Overall, this is a pretty great coming-of-age album. Nick offers insight into existential challenges all of us face. It’s a cheery, mellow album that feels like a warm hug.
ExclusivelyMusic 