It is easy to link the tragic life and early death of Nick Drake with his music, but doing so does the music a disservice I think. Whilst it is oftimes undeniably melancholy there are moments of pure elation in his songs too - "Northern Sky" being an example.
I was introduced to Nick Drake as a teenager by an older hippy lady who I had a huge crush on (ooh she was lovely) in the early 80s. His music was totally different to the hard rock and post punk that I mostly listened to then, but something struck a chord.
He was pretty unknown then - you couldn't buy any of his records, so for a few years I had to make do with a cassette which slowly got worn out, so it was hugely exciting for me when his records where reissued.
Nick Drake is sometimes categorised as a folk artist - perhaps because he played acoustic guitar and because members of Fairport Convention played on his albums - and there are elements of folk in his music, but to me he is more of a singer/songwriter, and his second album has a real jazzy feel at times.
Drake was a fantastic guitarist with a highly individual style, possibly because he was self-taught. He often used non-standard tuning for his guitar, and his songs often feature unusual time signatures, but it all still feels organic and natural.
"Five Leaves Left" - his first album - has a subtle, sometimes pastoral feel. It is as beautifully understated album.
"Bryter Layter" is a strong contender for one of my top ten albums of all time. Some Nick Drake devotees consider Bryter Layter to be too poppy, and sure it possesses a fuller sound, with a more immediate impact, but his songs here have more depth than his early efforts. The balance between light and shade is perfect. "Northern Sky" is one of mine and Mrs K's special songs too, and it is gorgeous, with John Cale adding to the magic. It has a truly timeless quality; it seems incredible to me that it was recorded nearly 40 years ago. Bryter Layter is a wonderful, wonderful record.
His final album, "Pink Moon" is devastating. So bleak, so anguished at times and yet so calm. Just Drake and his guitar for the most part, the musicianship and the sheer excellence of the songs prevent Pink Moon from being a despairing listen, but it does feel desperately sad at times. Probably his best album - just not my favourite. Note: Some versions of Pink Moon have some additional tracks including the beautiful but chilling "Black Eyed Dog".
Nowadays Nick Drake’s music is more popular than ever, which Nick would have loved. From various things I have read, despite being desperately shy, Nick Drake wanted to be a commercial success; he wanted as many people as possible to hear his music.
Anyone else love Nick?