Bryter Layter indulges in a more playful sound at many points, showing that Drake was far from being a constant king of depression.
Layter was written in London, and was meant to reflect urbanity. It did, but only from the perspective of Drake's one bloodshot eye, peering out cautiously at the world.
The backing is more upbeat than the starkness of Five Leaves Left, and there is also greater stylistic diversity, with the occasional jazzy touch deployed.
Oh my word....on first listen it may not seem all that. Especially compared to Pink Moon. But I promise a second listen is a must! This album isn't just on par with Pink Moon....it may even be better! With help from members from Beach Boys, Velvet Underground and Fairport Convention one of the prettiest albums was born. There isn't a dull moment on this album, heck you can say that about Nicks work as a whole! It makes you wonder why and how this bombed so hard, especially with the names behind ... read more
Nick Drakes sophomore album 'Bryter Layter' sees him make stellar improvements upon his already impressive debut, therefore creating a more enjoyable and consistent experience. Where 'Five Leaves Left' felt minimal in its sonic approach, 'Bryter Layter' feels a bit more expansive with inspirations from Jazz bleeding it's way through the sound and I feel like this aesthetic works for Nick Drake, every instrumental on this album is gorgeous to say the least. Nick himself does not underperform at ... read more
Nick Drake’s short discography, there’s less than 1000 days between the release of his first and last albums, is one of the most celebrated in recent history and nestled in the middle is this wonderful record.
If Five Leaves left is a moment of pastoral thought, Bryter Layter is a warm, jazzy hug. The lush strings arranged by Robert Kirby return, but this time in an even grander fashion and are paired with some fabulous brass giving the album an even richer texture.
The brass is ... read more
Released on March 5th 1971, Bryter Layter is the second and second to last album by English folk singer-songwriter Nick Drake. The album would be the last time Nick Drake would have backing musicians, Pink Moon would have Nick Drake perform all the songs by himself. Like his debut album Five Leaves Left, the album would not contain any songs that only include Nick Drake, on Bryter Layter he would be with part of British folk rock group Fairport Convention, John Cale from The Velvet Underground, ... read more
With Bryter Layter, my journey through Nick Drake's albums comes to a close. On top of Five Leaves Left, it's another great album, and a fine sophomore effort. If you really listen to his music, you know his story and it's depressing end, but his legacy is carried on through this and his other spectacular records.
1 | Introduction 1:32 | 91 |
2 | Hazey Jane 2 3:46 | 90 |
3 | At the Chime of a City Clock 4:45 | 90 |
4 | One of These Things First 4:50 | 94 |
5 | Hazey Jane I 4:29 | 91 |
6 | Bryter Layter 3:20 | 88 |
7 | Fly 2:58 | 88 |
8 | Poor Boy 6:07 | 90 |
9 | Northern Sky 3:44 | 92 |
10 | Sunday 3:43 | 87 |