Bryter Layter

A superb instrumental to kick things off. Track 2 reminded me it was Nick Drake and he has that forlorn apologetic voice. And I normally don’t do well with these 1970s singer songwriter folky blokes. But I did manage to warm to it. And the music was great in a lot of places. Highlight for me was the sublime ‘Northern Sky’. The low point that bossanovaesque ‘Poor Boy’. Worthy of a middle of the road 3 overall.

I just do not like his voice. It's a shame as the instrumentals were above average. I would prefer it if they swapped him out and replaced him with the quacking of a male duck.

Not memorable

Beautiful guitar from Nick Drake rounded-out by some great studio musicians. His singing voice is a little fragile, weak, and I didn’t catch on to many lyrics on 1.5 listens, though it seems poetry is there. These songs showcase precocious and interesting talent from such a young, troubled person, gone, as so many like him are, far too soon.

Steady jazz influence and I enjoyed the horns. Listened to this in the car with Sarah and Katie as we passed the Hanford site on our way to Leavenworth.

It was fine. Easy to listen to. But is he even speaking English..? Whatever it was fine

Melody so very soothing and understanding

I like this album a lot. It was really good. It felt like the cover. It was ethereal and whimsical and mystical, and transported me into another room and the songwriting was drinking. I felt that sometimes the song is dragged a little bit and then the instrumentals would kinda pick up and that’s what I would get back into the reckon but very chill. Very nice. I like it.

All the Nick Drake albums are lovely, but Pink Moon is the crucial one. This album strikes me as grasping for something that he can better attain without the saxophone and strings. Still good though.

Not as good as Pink Moon, mostly because the producers on that album were smart enough to get out of the way and let Nick Drake be himself, unadorned. Here, the Herb Alpert-style horns, strings and saxophone feel out of place and distracting. Better is “One Of These Things First,” an easy romp with a Vince Guaraldi-esque piano playing over delicate finger picking, soft bass lines and Drake’s plaintive, lonely voice. In fact I enjoy the piano most of all the accompaniments, especially on “Poor Boy,” where it is supplied by South African pianist Chris McGregor. But this is overall just not on the same level as PM, and also WTF is up with the album title.

I've slept on Nick Drake, but this record is phenomenal. Maybe my reckoning with it is biases by a spate of gloomy weather, but it's still a five for me.

Like cat stevens for hipsters.

Ah, so this is where all the holding music on call centers comes from!

I prefer pink moon but the difference isn't big enough justify knocking it down to a 3.

love love love love love it!

Not bad music, but the style here isn't really my cup of tea. I'd have liked to feel more of the emotion, or have a bit more power Standouts Sunday 3/5

I had heard this distinctive voice before but never knew who it was.

Unpopular opinion: Nick Drake is a dime store Dylan. I know hipsters love the guy...but hipsters like a lot of awful music. Would I listen to again? Nope. And there's 2 more Nick Drake albums on this list that I'll need to endure...

Good stuff, folksy guitar work with very breathy singing. Obviously a huge influence on Belle & Sebastian.

Pure 80s pop and very enjoyable it is too! Edwin Collins has gone on to make some fabulous music and he cut his teeth with this band.

I first listened to this when I borrowed the CD from the library. This was even better than I remembered. It is a truly beautiful album.

I won’t labour the point as to how good I think Nick Drake is/was. I do get more a sense of hope and positivity from this one than his other albums, but it still has that thread of melancholy throughout that, to me, gives it a sense of poignancy. We had ‘northern sky’ as the first dance at our wedding at my behest. I still think they are some of the best lyrics about love that I’ve heard.

What I knew coming in: 1)This guy is supposedly great & I’m vaguely familiar with a song or three. 2) I sometimes confuse him with a similarly named but distinctly sounding artist that’s also been on my deep dive list for years. Review: Absolutely brilliant. I fkng love this album and as a matter of fact Im bout to celebrate the *whole catalog*. The proverbial tragic artist with a legacy of masterpieces. Just an incredible talent. 4 & 3/4 stars because it’s fkn great & nobody’s perfect. But that rounds right up to 5

This one is fine. 3 stars

Easy listening, good vibes

It's a very pretty album for sure. It sounds like a fantasy soundtrack in a good way. Nothing really excites me about it though, it's just another album.

I'm a big fan of Nick Drake's Pink Moon, so I was excited to see this one pop up. It's so close to being a great album, but the production kills it. The songwriting is fantastic. Nick's vocals and guitar are fantastic. The rest of the musicians are great - and then the strings kick in . . . on damn near every song. About half way through, I started thinking this must have been produced by someone who did all that crappy 70s country music, but at least it didn't have the horrible backing vocals. Then "Poor Boy" came on, and I literally said out loud "Oh fuck off" If someone out there has the stubs from this album, I would kill to hear it without the completely unnecessary strings and backing vocals. It could be another great one.

Eh .... never heard of Nick Drake, I thought aster this album I would never hear of him again. But reading some other reviews, I guess there are two more of this albums to come.

folk w some jazz elements oh Shit…. beautfil

zeer geschikt als wachtmuziekje op de telefoon

I think this is a bit of a grower - I like it, but wouldn't reach for it big time, I guess.

Definitely real music, but not my taste.

Classic folk singer-songwriter. Makes me want to go lie in a field or take a nature walk—in the best way. I’ve listened to several songs on this album for years (One Of These Things First & Northern Sky), but it’s a great record to listen through beginning to end. Reminds me of college. It’s heartbreaking we didn’t get more from Nick Drake. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Pretty great record as a whole. And thats the kicker. I would gladly listen to the whole piece start to finish but I feel like I'll have a harder time when the couple songs I liked come up at random. Im more partial to the tracks with vocals but ,though I never say this, they almost need the instrumental sections too. Im not too sure how to handle this one. I feel like I need more time with it but so far its great, with potential to be incredible. Glad to have heard it thats for sure

Beautiful melancholy songs. Drake’s songwriting and guitar playing are wonderful as are the arrangements. The album is quite slight. The intro, outro and title track being 3 small mood pieces. They do fit the album perfectly, although I do find the title track a little annoying. Poor Boy is the only dud on the album, the jazz piano and choir doesn’t fit the rest. That leaves only 6 ‘proper’ songs but those six are spectacular and production and track listing make this feel like a cohesive set. I know Pink Moon very well and have heard Drake’s debut before, but this was a first time listen. Drake was a special talent.

Lush, orchestral, pretty good 3.5/5

Really enjoyed this - lovely orchestral tracks and good vocals.

Great, baroque folk/pop music. I personally have purposefully (for some reason) held off listening to Nick Drake. Still on the fence around his vocals, not personally a fan, I find them too contrived and affected. The music is fantastic, great songwriting. I hear the influence in 90s bands such as Belle and Sebastian, et al. Great album.

I might buy this

Nice

Cloudy Sunday afternoon.

I had never heard Nick Drake prior today. I really liked his album. It's arrangements are lush and rich. His voice is soulful and smooth. The album has an air of melancholy about it, which kind of makes sense given his story.

Mr Drake gets better each time I listen to his exquisite music.

Beautiful record. Such a haunting voice. Soothing melodies, mysterious lyrics. Elite folk music.

Music for a gloomy day. 3.5 stars

Oh hell yes. I’m not sure if I’ve actually listened to this particular album all the way through, so this is a great reason to do so. — I mean, I can’t say I like it as much as Pink Moon, but I can’t point to a single flaw or reason for that either. What an enchanting and rapturous series of tunes. Time to go tell my mom I finally heard this album.

I love Nick Drake but this one is subtraction by addition for me. Some truly overproduced tracks here, Poor Boy, dear god, make it stop. Nicks songwriting and voice are enough to over come the negatives and there’s some gorgeous songs here. A far cry from Pink Moon for me but still very good

Nick Drake’s voice is a wonderful listen. Very chill, very soothing.

NICK DRAKE IS GOD. FROM DE 1ST ALBUM

Very interesting to hear Nick Drake with backing musicians. I enjoyed the jazzier moments but overall a great folk album. Beautiful cover and another tragic death.

Quite enjoyed it

That was absolutely delightful. I listened to it probably four times that day while working instead of listening to my audiobooks, and then I put it on when my girlfriend and I went to bed that night and we made out for the entire album.

I can’t help feeling the arrangements and the backing band are the heroes here. Drake’s voice is fey but ultimately unsatisfying and he’s not a stellar songwriter when you strip away the razzmatazz and the posthumous legend. Folk-ish easy listening at best. It’s not strictly a 1971 recording as the album was planned for release the year before, but Drake and his record company rowed over the artwork, delaying release of this 1970 album just into 1971. Pleasing trivia: Drake’s parents contributed to renovation of the pipe organ in the church next to his burial place. One organ stop is named The Nick Drake Stop. There’s an annual memorial concert, where the organist plays versions of his songs on the organ.

2 --- de Hueva

You can trace a thruline from Nick Drake to Joanna Newsom

Man, I feel left out still not being too amazed by this guy. Hazey Jane I was beautiful, so I’ll come back to this every once in a while. Maybe I’ll get it when I’m 30 or something.

I'm aware of a few of these through use in various soundtracks. This is certainly a vibe. I'll want to listen to this again.

Some beautiful moments but overall not enough here to really grab me.

I really like him. A five is maybe a bit high, but what can you do

Real nice listening. I had heard Pink Moon and a few other of Drake's songs previously, but this is his first album I've listened to. Many of the songs have incredibly sad lyrics but the music is undeniably mellow.

Nick Drake is a fucking legend. Fantastic listen!

Somehow, I had missed Nick Drake and his entire poignant arc. Shame we lost him so early; he could have had a lasting career with his talent.

Rather lovely

85

Lovely stuff, I’ve never heard all of this before. Excellent. Vince Guaraldi vibes - sign me up

Pleasant listen

Very nice instrumental arrangements here

So lovely

Man, Nick Drake was such a talented guitarist. Gone way too soon. I've really only listened to Pink Moon, so hearing him with full backing instruments here was a nice change. The strings on “Introduction” were beautiful and sat perfectly under his guitar. And “Hazey Jane II” might be the most upbeat I have ever heard him, which was a fun surprise. It just feels warm, easy to listen to, and really shows off how talented he was. Favorite song: Hazey Jane II

Def coming back to it, very nice morning & breakfast album

Tää oli aika hissimusiikkia. Ei jäänyt yhtikäs mitään mieleen.

Nick Drake is like a weak handshake. This time with more production.

I listened to and reviewed Nick Drake’s Pink Moon some 250 albums back…I liked that one quite a bit better than this one. This album was fine, and pleasant to listen to, and I even enjoyed the instrumental numbers. But it’s nothing that I need to hear again. Three stars.

Album No. 0066 on my list. To be honest, I had never before heard of Nick Drake. “Bryter Layter” is a solid, minimalist mix of songs and instrumentals. In general, I found this album to be lacking a little bit of dynamic - they just don’t get to me all that much, although I can appreciate their quality. My personal favorites from this album are “Hazey Jane II”, “One Of These Things First”, and “Northern Lights.” 3/5 stars.

Brilliant guitar work, dark and brooding lyrics. An interesting listen but not something that needs to be on my playlist.

Doesn't get much better than this. One of my fave albums.

Beautiful record. Such rich arrangements for a singer songwriter guitarist. Some of his most singable melodies. Still my least favourite of nicks (but that's such a high bar)

What a dreary load of old shit

OK, fairly pedestrian

No private session used for Spotify. I have listened to several Nick Drake albums from this experiment, 70's mumbly soft voice paired with lovely acoustic guitar. This album has more instruments thrown in to the mix and gets pretty upbeat. Great one for the morning coffee, maybe the second cup.

An exampel of overarranged songs. Out of a sudden a violin and a trumpet appears, taken away the magic of Nick Drake's songs. The only outstanding exceptions is 'One of these things first'.

A fine but somewhat forgettable album

This is one of those albums and artists that you wished you had heard a hell of a lot sooner than the day you laid ears on it. His entire discography, as short as it is, does not disappoint. Run, don’t walk.

Discovering Nick Drake has been one of my favourite parts of the whole project. Having listened, I do agree he's better with a sparser sound.

Nice instrumentals, vocals, and lyrics. I was impressed with this album

I hate giving this 1 star but I just wasn’t interested at all.

Jeez I hate these albums man

2.1/5 Okaaay, this is the second Nick Drake album we've got since the start of this challenge. I rated the first with 2/5 cuz I really don't like Folk and singer/songwriter music. This album however - gets the same treatment. Why tf is this so boring? It's cool that we get to listen to things we wouldn't have otherwise, but that doesn't mean that it's good music. Thank god this genre (along with Hippies) was only big around the 60s/70s and died out quickly after.

I feel like if I had more time with this album I’d like it more. Still, some good songs and I like his voice and love his guitar work.

It's fine, but it isn't my cup of tea. The instrumentals are great, but I feel like the main point is supposed to be the singer.

This started out a delightful listen. But I got a bit tired of it by the end.

Can he sing? not really but can he write lyrics? eh, kinda but can he FUNK? yes. great composition and good vibe, but his voice is annoying and not really for me. best songs: hazey jane 1, northern sky (ironically the least cool but the best lyrically)

Liked it a lot, some great unique guitar playing. Of all the albums I’ve listened to for this project, this has the most new songs that I’ve found that I like.

4.5. Not familoar with this album but know nick drake. Very pet sounds like which is a good thing.

There's a bit of joy, a bit of lightness here. I much prefer this to Pink Moon.

8/10 Always a pleasure to listen to Nick Drake, and my first time revisiting Bryter Layter in full for quite some time, although there are some songs from this album that I listen to frequently. The Janes and ‘One Of These Things First’ are clearly the best songs here to me. The instrumental tracks - the title track and ‘Sunday’ are not really strong enough to let me score this album any higher, but I do bloody love Nick Drake regardless. Listens: 2

I enjoyed it, but it’s not my favorite.

Meh

Definitely good, but didn't capture me. Sort of thing where I would get to enjoy it after a few listens... but do I want to listen to it more? Not really.

Easy 5 star for me, not a bad song on here. It's a big improvement over Five Leaves Left, and I love the addition of orchestral instruments and varied styles. Great guitar playing and singing as well of course.

I love this album and Nick Drake. I’m so glad I discovered this album this year as it’s an amazing folk record with beautiful guitar playing and lyricism

riktigt bra arrangerat, inget superspeciellt men helt ok till bra utöver det. typexempel för en 4/5

Det här är varför jag lyssnar på varje album på listan. För att hitta otroliga album som denna. Stråkarren är det klart bästa men hans röst och texter är magnifika. Tårar i ögonen i 40 minuter, this one hit me

Don't care for his voice

Hazey Jane II lowkey giving Dire Straits vibe, so was lowkey surprised by the rest of this album because it was a bit more strings heavy. but honestly lovely. i really like his voice, and i like the strings a lot. also saxophone made an appearance! very cool

Very pleasant album. Easy album to get through with a few familiar tracks. It's not hard to see why this album was so influential.

Hushed vocals, beautiful melodies, finger picked guitar, misty eyed atmosphere of an England that never was... Best Tracks: Hazy Jane II; One of These Things First; Northern Sky

I'm finding that I really like the folksy albums this generator is giving me. Not something I ever would have found on my own, but I loved this one!

Such a sweet album. It's probably Nick Drake's least good, but the bar is so high from the other two albums, it's still great. The only "weakness" of this album is that the instrumental backing feels a little random at times (here's a flute solo out of nowhere!). But it's all high quality. And the consistency comes from Drake's ruminant lyrics and his beautiful soft voice.

The music is soft, jazzy but perhaps too calm for me. Not interested in listening to it again 2,4/5

Listens: 3.5 Standout Tracks: Hazey Jane I and II Lot of stuff going on in this album. Violins, jazz instruments (trumpet or maybe trombone), traditional acoustic guitar. Pretty nice composition and a lovely album. Short and sweet, doesn't overstay its welcome. At times, though, it does sort of feel like I'm listening to elevator music. Not like, Brian Eno ambient elevator music, but similar. Perhaps game show music, while the clock is counting down before the contestants have to answer. Bryter Layter is like this.

Another ok singer songwriter album? Better than Leonard Cohen, but not something I feel like I'd want to revisit. Might leave it on if it was on the radio? 3/5

A really nice well written and well played album

Can't believe the number of depressing, boring musicians whose music apparently only made this list because the musician tragically killed themselves. 3 albums from this guy? Come on.

I just love Nick Drake’s sound. There is nothing being overproduced, but for some reason his sound and his voice both feel so ahead of their time. I could listen to this again and again. Best Track: Northern Sky

There are some fun-Drake-mentalists out there that insist Nick Drake is a very top-tier artist. I would know because I am married to one. As an aside fun-Drake-mentalists rarely have fun. However, they are...anyway. As another aside, please feel free to use and popularize the term fun-Drake-mentalist, it is almost as bad as Nick Drake himself, but I digress. This album is totally fine, he sings nicely, good for him. While you gather your torches and pitchforks I'll be over here, probably listening to Arcade Fire or Blondie. If you see a 4 or 5 star review you'll know they got to me and they might be coming for you next.

A bit like jack johnson

So good, another album I had forgotten about

Like I said before I can’t decide on what my favorite Nick Drake album is although I think I’m starting to lean towards Pink Moon. I do love the orchestration and additional instrumentation on this one. This one wins in tape hiss though.

This is the second Nike Drake album that I can recall. I remember loving Pink Moon. This one is sounding really good, too. Man, it's a tragedy he didn't live longer. I dig this type of music. Actually, this guy might be my new favorite solo artist from this era. Tracks 3 and 4 are favs, but really all of them are wonderful. This is another 4 to 5.

Simply glorious

“I never felt magic crazy as this / I never saw moons, knew the meaning of the sea” I wish I could explain why this album rocks my fucking socks off. It’s got excellent musicianship and songwriting that really pulls you in, but there’s something more than just the core component parts. It’s the vastness of a lush, carefully orchestrated album that still finds sparseness and plenty of room to groove. I love this cross-section of jazz and folk, and think there’s so much fertile ground there. I also enjoyed the instrumental suites that made it feel like a symphony. Perennial favorites are “One Of These Things First” and Pat Arnold and Doris Troy on “Poor Boy,” but this time around I was really enthralled by “Northern Sky.”

Nick Drake is dreamy folk singer. The frequent use of strings behind his soft voice and pronounced guitar style makes an album which promotes a feeling of peace and serenity for this listener. I don’t believe much else needs to be said for this album. It truly speaks for itself. Although, one could argue that “Bryter Layter” sounds like elevator music and “Sunday” sounds like hold music. Perhaps if the flute wasn’t included I would have a different opinion (Sorry Floutist).

I quite liked this album. It was interesting yet soothing, nostalgic but not boring. I enjoyed the instrumentation immensely. The singing and the lyrics we're also good. I would definitely listen to this album again. 4 out of 5.

Dig the singing

I love Northern Sky, but the rest all kind of sounded the same. It was pleasant but boring.

Nick Drakes guitar playing is sublime, finger plucked steel strings that sound like a babbling brook, coupled perfectly with his softly sung melodys. The strings arrangements swell and float over the tracks but aren’t over powering, there is still plenty of space for the music to breathe. The use of other instruments, piano, saxophone, adds great variation, and steps the tracks up to another level. I’ve loved his music since I first heard it as a teenager. This is a perfect album.

This was not an artist I’ve heard of before, but easy listening.

This is a perfect album

If vanilla was a sound.

I really liked this album, it sounds really pretty, like a chill backdrop for some kind of indie game

The album starts with a hopeful kind of acoustic rif backed by what sounds like a full orchestra. The second track has a great driving energy and his voice really carries the rhythm along. The extra instruments give this album a very cool feel--I like it even more than the other Nick Drake album this list has given me, Pink Moon. The album also finishes out with a great vibe. The flute and guitar really leaves you with a mood. I'll definitely go back to this album. 5/5

INCRÍVEL

I like everything about it except his voice. It's not that it's bad or objectionable, just devoid of any flourishes or almost any personality, which may be the aim. I kept imagining how it would be if it was being sung by John Cale. This could be why I much preferred this to what little Nick Drake I've heard before, there's much more going on. I liked it. I need to listen to it a bit more.

Тиха та тендітна музика, чудовий голос

Взагалі якщо так брати, то Pink Moon це мій топ-5 альбом евер. Я обожнюю Ніка Дрейка, особливо слухати його під таку погоду як зараз у жовтні. Цей альбом мені трохи менше подобається.

Nick Drake is fantastic. But this isn't the best/most exciting of his albums. Pitchfork: 9.7 Rolling Stone: n/a Best Songs One Of These Things First Northern Sky

I can see why thus is loved by critics and people in the know, but it has too much whimsy for me.

So happy to have had you Nick Drake. This is your last album for me on this list, but surely not the last time I hear you.

I can see why this album made the list, I can really hear the influence it had on singer/songwriter and indie music, especially among the Jack Johnson's of the world. The most striking thing about the album was how modern it sounded, it wouldn't sound out of place if I stumbled upon it on a random Tiny Desk concert or heard it on modern college radio. I found the instrumentation on the album really pleasant. The way the piano, strings, flute, etc. play off the guitar is really cool, and Nick Drake is an impressive guitar player. Unfortunately, that vocal style is nails-on-a-chalkboard to me. It sounds like he invented the "indie accent" so many artists today copy, and those whispery soft-spoken vocals drive me insane (in a bad way). I also found the "cute" lyrics grating. I really wanted to like this album, but unfortunately the vocals bring it down to a 2-2.5/5 for me.

3,5

3/5

Not really my thing, this 70's acoustic pop. Reminds me of Cups and Cakes by Spinal Tap.

Easy listening, good album. I may go back to it and I'll definitely listen to his 2 others.

Relaxing

this is exactly what i needed. i love poor boy so much. never heard of nick drake til now but this was great and i will be listening to more. haunting and romantic and delicious to my ears 10/28 i rated this album a 4 but im coming back to give it a 5 idc. i was trying to be careful with 5 stars but i loved every song on this album

Not bad

Good. Unique voice. Very folksy and whimsical

This kind of music is just not interesting for me. It’s very calm, mellow, and vocal-driven. Some people like it, but I personally don’t find it fun. It’s chamber music, so it’s not as painfully minimal as some folk, but it is still not exciting for me at all. I don’t think there’s anything specific about this album that made me like it less than I otherwise would. It just follows the conventions of a genre I don’t enjoy. 5/10

As a longtime fan of Pink Moon I’ve always meant to listen to Nick Drake’s other work and it just never happened, so I am very grateful this list has finally forced it upon me. Real good stuff

It’s great but my favourite will always be pink moon

Wonderful stuff

Downloaded to listen to again. Perfect fall/winter vibes. Nick Drake's music was so groundbreaking and is now so timeless. I am so glad this album was on here!

I hadn't ever heart of Nick Drake before opening this webpage. But I was very pleasantly surprised by this album. Very southing and I feel like it does a good job of having a lot of different complimentary instrumentals. I'm definitely going to listen to this again. VERY strong 4, waffled between 4 and 5 for awhile.

Listened months ago and remember nothing about it. show must go on.

I felt pretty neutral about this album. Something about his voice rubs me the wrong way a bit. I enjoyed how upbeat yet chill it was, cool Fairport Convention crossover.

3.5

Listening to this album was a pleasant experience. Nick Drake has a warm whispery voice matched with beautiful instrumentation. It feels like a serene walk through a forest or along a hilltop. All of this is juxtaposed by deeply personal and troubled lyrics. There's a lot of introspection layered in the pleasantry and it creates music worth listening to again and again. 3.5 Stars

Singer /Songwriters seemed to be a dime a dozen in the 70’s. And, quite frankly, I can’t stand most of them. It’s just some whiny dude whining about how lonely & depressed he is cause he can’t get laid. Boo hoo. And to top it all off I can’t stand Nick Drake’s voice. The instrumentals were nice though.

GOOD

Nun also auch noch das dritte Album von Nick Drake ...

Rainy day music

Have mixed feelings but I think I really enjoy it.

Yep

Sounds like John Mayer

Love Pink Moon but it’s the only album I’ve listened to by Nick Drake. This one has been a beautiful surprise. Love the orchestral arrangements that accompany, love the melancholy.

Generally rated as slightly weaker than his other two albums by myself and other opinion sites (like RYM and AOTY) this is still nearly perfect, especially on its opening run of five tracks and Northern Sky. For me a couple of the later instrumentals bring it down (flutes are a little too twee and pastoral for my liking here) as well as other B side songs that are only great rather than utterly amazing (Fly and Poor Boy). On rateyourmusic this is a 4.5 stars (& 5 stars for FLL and FT), here it JUST rounds up to a 5, especially as it is criminally low at 3.5 on this project.

It's ok. Cat Stevens-ish, but not as good.

I just don't get it. I found these songs extremely boring.

If you said this was recorded in the 2020s, I would believe you. Unfortunately I don't like this style now or then.

couple of great songs, good background music. 3.5

Sad boy with an acoustic sings background music.

This is truely beautiful music and makes me cry. What a song is Hazy Jane 1. I have a lot of love for Nick Drake.

Pink moon's a little better, but I think this is more fun to casually listen to. Richer instrumentation here if memory serves.

I liked this album a lot, will be listening to more Nick Drake as a result. Hope it sounds similar!

Super album, possibly my favourite by Nick Drake. Not a bad song on it.

86/100. Beautiful and extremely cozy. Like a warm blanket on a rainy day.

Don’t know why I have never ever heard Nick Drake before today. Always thought he was in the Syd Barrett/Floyd musto music snobbery category, inaccessible pseudo intellectual twaddle, of someone who had mental health issues and died young. And those on here of that ilk, so far have for me been circumstance that creates it’s own hype over substance. But this, well it’s accessible. So thank you, because I can now because of this list listen to this and the other 2 albums that as of today I have now heard ( this appears the most poppy, fuller sounding of them). Not going into the music, others with more knowledge do that better than my first hearing but 4 Star, it’s folk with sort of Vince Guaraldi peanuts jazz feel which will likely become 5 with familiarity.

Actually really liked this Nick Drake album

>Spends most of his life in the UK/UK owned territories >Is depressed Par for the course

Cozy listening for a cold, autumn Sunday morning.

Really, really liked this. Not sure what to expect and I hadn't heard of Nick Drake before but immediately recognized him as the guy that did Pink Moon. Didn't like some of the dated sounds (what is that, a flute or a clarinet?) and for a guy that writes lyrics like that I didn't see the need for the instrumentals. Can't give it a 5 it's almost there for me.

Having long been a fan of One of These Things First, I'm surprised I never sought this album out. Loved, the beautiful guitar and piano melodies carried me along and for once I wish I was actually disappointed when it ended

I love Nick Drake. I don't think this is my favourite album of his but it's still solid 5 for me.

A masterpiece I will never tire of. Especially on warm, sunny afternoons.

He had such a mellow voice. Another fellow that should have had a full long successful life. RIP

Timeless perfection, infinite stars

Folky, the intro is super nice, i dont like his melodies but his voice is nice and soft, it was okay too folky. 2/5

I didn’t save any songs but would rate a 4/5 simply on vibes alone.

Sei la, vibe meio estranha. Mas algumas musicas boas

I had never heard of Nick Drake before listening to this. I was very ready to be bored by early 70's folk music, and instead found myself absolutely mesmerised by an incredible singer-songwriter. Bryter Layter is a beautifully arranged folk masterpiece, and I cannot wait to hear more from Nick Drake. I get the feeling this is an artist I will gel with strongly.

This album is pretty boring. There are very few catchy hooks to grab your ears, but it would be good for a nap. Snoozer.

myeh i think Nick Drake is a decent songwriter, and this is solid hangover cure music. don't really care for him much as a vocalist or a performer. hard to deny the influence, though. +50 points for being referenced in that Boris cover deserves to be one of the 1001? i get the desire to have all 3 Nick Drake albums on it but realistically u could probably cut this one. though i'm certainly on the more negative end of opinions on him fwiw

This is a lovely album. There is a scent of horse manure and cut grass throughout. Drakes musical legacy is so thin that albums such as this should be cherished. Northern sky is melodic and lyrically very interesting. One to return to.

i miss nick drake :( there are SO many great songs on here and his vocals are as gorgeous as ever ill never get tired of them

HAZEY JANE 2 I LOVE YOU FOREVER !!!!!

(4) whimsical

2.5

Very interesting album, there is a lot of detail and dynamic range to look out for. The voices and instruments are very well recorded and everything sounds pleasing and nice.

It was ok, I wouldn’t be in a rush to listen to again though a low 3 high 2 star for me

I really enjoyed this album. Kinda sad music but very interesting lyrics

The most impressive thing I've noticed about Nick Drake is he is credited as the only performer on this record. He is a master of all things strings. Absolutely beautiful music. 4.4 outta 5

Never heard of this guy and folk is a bit of an enigma, but holy moly, this was some lovely cuddly stuff and the guy's voice made me forget my existence so much I almost pissed my pants. A really good listen and would recommend.

An odd one, but largely enjoyable. Enjoyed the flute on the title track Bryter Layter. Going for a 3 as although it was enjoyable, I won't listen again.

Really chill album, enjoyed a lot

A new one for me. Pleasantly surprised and on the better end for the more folksy music. In between a 3 and a 4 for me, might be a little harsh and go for a 3.

Not my usual cup of tea, but better than i expected. Still wouldn't call it particularly enthralling however

I don't feel like it's truly necessary to listen to Nick Drake's entire catalogue before you die. This medieval minstrel Nick Drake album is probably the worst of the lot.

Liked this Joni Mitchell could have sang a version of each tune and kept the vibe.

Beauty in song form. Kendrick could not win against this guy. Don’t plan on going back to ot so 4/5.

Been a very long time since I've listened to this one, so it was well due for a revisit. What a beautiful record. One of those records that really makes me feel. Gonna have to get a copy sometime, don't own this one.

Generator random strikes again. Got Nick Drake 3 days ago, and got him again now. And again, just another fantastic set of folk pop tracks. Although I will say I do prefer Five Leaves Left. Bryter Layter is great, but for my money, it's a tad too lush and orchestral. Some of it reminds me of Joni Mitchell with it's slight jazziness, but it's just not hitting me like Mitchell does. Hazey Jane II might be my favorite track, with it's Charlie Brown ass sound, feeling like it's a huge inspiration of Belle and Sebastian. So yeah. Great album. Just slightly prefer Five Leaves Left.

Absolutely stunning. Everything Nick Drake is pretty much flawless for me, although I will admit to going to his other two releases before Bryter Layter. Regardless, Drake was some sort of genius - it's unfortunate we got so little from him.

Nick Drake is unique, love this album and everything it brings

In his lane, Nick Drake is excellent. He occupies an interesting space between folk and psychedelic alternative rock. Where Donovan seems a little too on the nose, Drake lands perfectly. A precursor to Elliott Smith. Good stuff.

I had high hopes but it never gets much past 'it fine to be on in the background' music. I never wanted to listen to more.

Fine Monday morning tunes.

More orchestration than expected and maybe necessary, but the voice and guitar playing are sublime.

We’ve now done the full Nick Drake discography and this was the worst of the three I think, but was still very pleasant morning coffee music.

Not sure if I'd ever heard of Nick Drake. Nice folk and surprisingly jazzy, I was impressed that I enjoyed it that much. Easy listening.

Nice, soft album. Arrangements are pretty much flawless (there is a full band on this one) and work great with Drake’s voice. Having a hard time deciding whether it’s a four or five star album. 4/5

One of the nice things this list has given me is a newfound appreciation for Nick Drake

Eh

great album

Of Drake’s three albums, Bryter Layter probably gets the least love from critics. But I really appreciate the more upbeat arrangements, which allow Drake’s vocals to be appreciated/considered in a new way. So good. I’m especially drawn to “One of These Things First.”

All 3 Nick Drake albums are unique but all 5s in my view. I love the mix of folk and jazz and vocals are perfect. Easy 5 star.

Enjoyed first listen. Kept it on repeat. Gets better with every listen.

Fantastic artist

musical and nice, but just nice.

Three Nick Drake albums in the span of a few months feels like guerilla marketing for anti-depressants, but from checking his wikipedia page, I do believe this means no more will be coming. His guitar playing and vocals remain gorgeous but we need some Halen or something up in this b.

Yes, Nick Drake, pull up a chair and take off your shoes. We're gonna be here a while. Nick Drake, my beloved. I've been waiting for this album for ages. Unappreciated in his time, Drake created a treasure trove of music in his short life. Bryter Layter is similar to his first album, Five Leaves Left, but is brighter--at times. As someone who does not like folk music, I love Drake's music. Make no mistake: this is folk music while feeling so accessible with the small jazz touches. The strings and horns are implemented perfectly. The instrumentals are just beautiful; they're evocative without words. The flute in "Sunday" does more work than lyrics ever could. Drake's lyrics can be considered simple, like some folk music, but I'd consider them deceptively simple. Songs on this album can cover wasted possibilities, isolation despite proximity, or--dare I suggest Nick Drake wrote such a song--love. I love his descriptions, especially in "At the Chime of a City Clock." He had the softest voice. Every time he sung, the words came out so gentle. Bryter Layter was a peaceful, calming listen. An instant favorite.

AT LAST! I've been waiting for my third Nick Drake album to pop on this project and round out his criminally short discography. And this definitely did not disappoint. This man really had a folk style all his own, and he infused it with jazz, to boot. His voice and stylings continue to remind me so much of Jack Johnson -- a unique, lazy, dreamy voice with minimal, chill music. I would genuinely be so surprised if Jack Johnson had not been extremely influenced by Nick Drake. After having heard these three albums, I just can't help but feel like Nick Drake was drastically ahead of his time. He was said to have a very boring and quiet stage personality, and that this contributed to his weak album performance while he was alive because those that did recognize him did so equally quietly. But truly, his music and vocals are very much aligned with modern day folk, and I can imagine a lot of people in today's bustling times really appreciating and admiring his no-frills, simple performances. I will also add that, having heard a couple of albums by Fairpoint Connections on this project, their influence and performance on this album is very apparent and it melds well with Drake's work. Nick Drake, I am sorry you were under-appreciated in life (though, if what we know about you is any indication, you probably preferred it that way), but just know your music has posthumously reached and touched so many people who understand your vision and enjoy your artistry. You've been one of my favorite discoveries on this project.

Yawn

Rad.

I sure do love Nyck Drayke (sic). Very witty, wise, robust songwriter and guitarist who released some of his finest works in the warly 70's. In line with Crosby, Still, and Nash but also in good spirits with the Dead melodies and motiffs. Damn good musician Nick Drake is. This is the type of sound I reach for in Autumn and instead of that Elliot Smith doofus

Honestly I wouldn't consider myself one for folk, but this album had a lot of beautiful arrangements. 5 is a little high (I would personally do 4.5), but 4 seems like a slap to the face.

Of the category "boring folk music from a dude and his guitar" this is surprisingly good. Sharp songs, good musician ship and sound and a good overall feeling. Too bad I can't remember any particular song... but I only listened to it once. Will I listen to it more? I don't know. Maybe.

I quite like this but it’s no pink moon, not saying that in a quality way but wow this has got some disney-esque strings. While pink moon you’re almost right there it’s like you’re at the other side of the room with Bryter Layter. 3/5

Dreamy

Bra - behagelig å høre på. men usikker på hvor mye mer enn det det er. må høre mer

Pleasant. I liked the flute

This is beautiful music although I prefer his 'non band' stuff. It was nice to get an album I enjoyed listening to! I might be wrong, but I think we have had all 3 of his albums, that 100% of his studio work!

I preferred the previous 2 Nick Drake albums, and while I'm so pleased to have listened to his music through this challenge I don't feel like this album adds much.

Okay. Didn't make much of an impression on me. Wasn't quite what I expected either.

Another soft and fluffy record in the best way with neat songwriting and arrangements. Everything flows very well around the artists vision and voice. It is interesting to see what drake did with more musicians in the room compared to pink moon. Songs sound less intimate and dramatic. While i still apprechiate this record, i prefer the pink moon solo experience.

First time listening to Nick Drake. Enjoyed throughout. Such light music

Its always a good morning when I wake up and listen to Nick Drake

Bit torn on this. It’s clearly a well written beautiful sounding album, but definitely requires active listening or it just fades into the background. Could be a 4 but because it didn’t grab my attention it’s getting a 3

He has a nice voice but the songs blend in together and nothing stands out. Sounds a bit too upbeat

Great vibes

Quite enjoyed! Nick Drake album also yesterday (what are the chances?). Definitely like, not sure I’d seek him out for a relisten.

Enjoyable

More orchestration than I'd expected from folk music but it's all quite pleasant. Despite that, I unfortunately find this album fairly boring despite the clear talent on display and the interesting arrangements.

A nice album to play while at a barbecue and what not. 4/5

Spotify keeps insisting I'm gonna love Nick Drake. Well I don't! Nice songs, but don't move me.

I cooked a really nice pumpkin pasta whilst listening to this

Solid album

I liked it. 2/2 for Nick Drake, whom I had never heard of before.

Folky, orchestral, a little electric and a folk rock rhythm section. Acoustic and vocal driven. Mellow and definitely a late 60s/early 70s sound.

It's ok

Sad and beautiful

Very much his strongest album

Las tres primeras canciones apuntaban a un album de 10 (honorable mention a las partes orquestales que aparecen en momentos aleatorios) luego el colega se empieza a quedar sin ideas. Esto se nota sobre todo en los tracks instrumentales, que son bastante genéricos. Cuando estás ahí, en la mitad del album, te das cuenta que cada track empieza planteando una idea medianamente interesante (sin ser nada rompedor) y luego tira los siguientes minutos alargando esa misma única idea. Una pena porque el tío tiene una voz muy especial, sobre todo teniendo en cuenta los géneros en los que se mueve. Para cuando llegó la parte jazzy y los coros gospel de las últimas canciones, ya me había perdido, lo siento Nicolás. Top: At the Chime of a City Clock y Northern Sky

Nunca había escuchado Nick Drake y por lo visto, craso error. Melodías muy bonitas y lyrics evocadoras, me gustó de principio a fin. Tal vez no sea 5/5 porque no todas las canciones son igual de memorables pero ponerle un 4 no le haría justicia imo. Favs: Hazey Jane II, At the Chime of a City Clock, Bryter Layter (preciosa instrumental), Northern Sky (la mejor, seguramente)

Qué discazo. Muy redondo, con letras e instrumentales muy bonitas. Tengo que escuchar más cosas de Nick Drake. A la playlist: Hazey Jane II, At the Chime of a City Clock, Northern Sky Nick Drake no pasaría nada si le quitas un par de minutitos a esta canción: Poor Boy

Lovely.

pretty good, sounds like jack johnson kinda or the other way around

Not bad at all and any album that can land tracks in the movie soundtracks of Garden State and The Royal Tenenbaums is alright by me

12.00, kipeenä himas, koss, qobuz

Very 70s, good voice tho

Solid album, Bob Dylan vibes. Liked it

Not sure how much can I take from this in one day of listening, but I already love "Pink Moon" and like a lot his first album, so this one is the only one I haven't listened to fully yet. Will be an enjoyable ride, I'm sure. So far this is quite different from his 2 other albums as this has orchestration on top of it which does fit nicely even though I heard Nick did not like it himself. Weird to hear something like "Poor Boy" from Mr. Drake - it has Sax, backing vocals akin to the Stones record, not bad though. Also, interestingly, parts of the last track reminded me of some song of Bowie, but can't remember which one. So far I really like side 1 and especially that instrumental introduction is breathtaking, other highlights of mine would include "One of these things first" and "Northern Sky". Side 2 seems weaker, and I can't help but compare this to Pink Moon. So for this one, strong 4 stars seems likely. P.S. I know what flute melody in instrumental "Sunday" reminds me off! "Kooks" from David Bowie!

Iha med

Really enjoyed listening to this one. It’s got some great study jams and thought that the riffs were all pretty much engaging. Would listen to again

I love Nick Drake - I was first introduced to him from the Garden State soundtrack, but too much is a little like eating too much candy.

A classic folk led, jazz and orchestral fueled singer songwriter beauty.

I think this suffers from being overproduced in contrast to Five Leaves Left and Pink Moon - much in the same way Nick Drake allegedly expressed. The album is at its strongest when it showcases Nick, and not the band that was assembled for him. The instrumental tracks range from good to fair. It's my least favourite of his, but it's still a very good record.

very good album a great listen

Solid album by him again. I like this dude’s misic. Maybe not as good as the one with the cool album art but still, loved listening to this

Sometimes I feel like doing this project is a waste of time and sometimes I come across a great album like this and it’s actually worth it 🙂‍↔️

Beautiful. 5.

Love this album. I knew One of These Things First well, but never listened to the rest of the album.

I really enjoyed listening to this, production feels great, maybe it caught me in the right mood but the vibes were perfect. At times it does feel a little twee or perhaps lack a certain something, it’s another album I’d probably rate 7-7.5/10 but not quite sure I’d round up to give it 4 stars. I want to return though so it is entirely possible I will upgrade if I get round to it.

This is Nick Drake's magnum opus, most full and well-rounded work. His minimal voice and guitar are well complemented by the string arrangements and full band in some songs. It's one of my favorites, I've heard it dozens of times, and it hasn't gotten old. I'm glad I got it in September; it's a perfect listen as summer transitions to fall. It's one of the best albums ever.

Nick Drake is a great singer-songwriter and his music is always a soothing joy to listen to. I don't really like all the instrumental backing on here though. Sometimes it works great and on the whole it's fitting instrumentation, but especially towards the end there and moments that would've been better left without. This is still part of a great trilogy of albums though, and it's nice that Nick Drake eventually found his following, even if it's years after he passed.

It was alright

Nick Drake. He had that thing. Not many musicians have it. But he did. Like many great artists, he suffered during his life. And you can hear it in his music. One of the things first is in my opinion a masterpiece. It’s not a perfect album. But the majority of this album is fantastic. 5 stars. Without question. So original.

De introductie is erg zweverig, maar vervolgens is het nog best aardig om te luisteren.

Peaceful folk tunes, 'Fly' is a really nice song 👍

Really liked the style of Nick Drake. He's like a more soft Neil Young which I like as well. The instrumentals are very pretty and the lyrics are good, all in all a good find

A hidden gem.

My first Nick Drake album! Very good songs, songwriting and production but I didn’t like his ‘Belle and Sebastian’ voice so much. Unusually I enjoyed the instrumentals!

Great album, with some (but few) low points although it manages to keep interesting throughout. Especially loved the jazzy feel of "Poor Boy" and the closing instrumental track "Sunday", which perfectly ties the album together. First thing I ever hear of Nick Drake's, can't wait to listen to more.

A celebrated artist that I do not "get." I don't find his voice interesting at all, and his lyrics are not nearly ear-catching for me to get the appeal. The songs all sound the same to me, too, though I appreciated the orchestral aspects here

Good vibes but nothing particularly stand out

Not bad but definitely overrated

That was nice and peaceful

For some reason I always thought of Nick Drake as an artist of the 1990's, not the early 1970's. While not as good as the unaccompanied Pink Moon album, this is also very good.

Nice album for sure, but it just didn't hit me. Found it a bit *cough* boring *cough*. Northern Sky is a gem though.

Beautiful. Just what I needed today. This album feels like a mirror made of music. Softly devastating, gently perfect. I resonate so deeply with his lyrics and the strange safety of isolation and solitude over being misunderstood.