Nick Frater is a multi-faceted musician from Croydon, England whose recordings pull all the right levers when it comes to capturing the essence of ’70s pop rock. But rather than simply reheat the sounds and styles he is infatuated with, his own unique fingerprints are engraved onto the sonic canvas, rendering his material fresh and lively.
Frater’s most recent album, Full Fathom Freight-Train (Kool Kat Musik) kicks in as a logical extension of his previous efforts – meaning you’re once again offered another dynamic display of thoughtfully-honed songs involving clever time shifts, concrete arrangements and razor sharp hooks.
Buckled tight in shimmering textures, “What Does Good Look Like?” and the twinkly piano-driven “A Whole Lot Later” glow with haunting beauty, where the frisky funk of “The Getaway” sits on the opposite end of the aisle.
Nick Frater’s bright and melodic vocals, partnered with keen instrumental exercises, lift the jangly power pop of “Sunshine After Rain,” the sweeping punch of “Your Latest Breakup Song” and the swinging grip of “Holding on to You” to monumental measures bursting with color and harmony.
Conveying a vision comparable to Jeff Lynne and Eric Carmen – as well as bands such as Nixon-era Beach Boys, Badfinger and Shoes – Nick Frater possesses the prowess to compose and construct songs that instantly hit the sweet spot. Everyone loves a catchy tune, and Full Fathom Frieght-Train is stuffed to the brim with ear candy that will make you sigh, smile and sing along.
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