BRYTER LAYTER

Track Listing

1. Introduction

2. Hazey Jane II

3. At The Chime Of A City Clock

4. One Of These Things First

5. Hazey Jane I

6. Bryter Layter

7. Fly

8. Poor Boy

9. Northern Sky

10. Sunday

My Rating
8/10

Average Critic Rating
9.5/10

Overview
This is a hauntingly beautiful and introspective album that stands as a high point in Nick Drake’s catalog. The deeply poetic lyrics completely complement the lush orchestration and intricate guitar work Drake showcases here, resulting in a melancholic yet uplifting atmosphere. There are strong incorporations of Jazz, Folk, and Classical influences, all woven together with Drake’s signature fragile, yet subtly powerful voice. Themes of solitude and existential reflection, with a delicate sense of yearning, form the foundation of the entire record, making for a truly emotional listen. The complex musical arrangements never overshadow the intimacy of Drake's performance and solidify his legacy as one of the most gifted and underappreciated songwriters of his era.

Recommended for the introverted types looking for a delicate connection with some music.

Featured Song
Northern Sky

Most Streamed
Northern Sky

Least Streamed
Sunday

Underrated
At The Chime Of A City Clock

TVV Top 3 Songs
One Of These Things First | Hazey Jane I | Northern Sky

Singles
N/A

TVV Top 3 Non-Singles
One Of These Things First | Hazey Jane I | Northern Sky

Listen to Again?
Yes

No-Skip Album?
Yes

Album Artwork Rating
6.5/10

This cover really shows the vulnerability of Drake and displays the themes of solitude and reflection heard throughout the album very well. There’s not much to take from this album cover - it’s very '70s in colour scheme and font, which is suitable, yet I don’t particularly connect with this artwork.

Genre
Folk

RL
Island Records

Recording Studio
Sound Techniques (London, England)