Nearly everything about Nick 13's self titled debut sounds vintage. The sweetly innocent vocals, the purity of the musical textures and even the lyrics harken back to a more golden time. Only the production values distinguish it from something that could have been released 50 years ago.
Nick 13's vocals are a highly unlikely mix of disarming slightness and charming richness... almost impossibly so. His timbre is reminiscent of Chris Isaak or even Buddy Holly at times, but softer than either of them.
This, in combination with the easy-rolling arrangements and softly traditional instrumentation makes for a simple and hypnotic sound. It's a far cry from the psychobilly of Nick's usual gig, Tiger Army, but rockabilly is certainly a fiber woven into the fabric of the album.
My favorite cut on the album is the Americana-ish "Carry My Body Home." Bumping along on the tracks of a Luther Perkins/Johnny Cash boom-chicka-boom rhythm, it details a man taking stock of his life and wondering how much sand the hourglass still holds. Lavish with steel guitar and acoustics, it's a haunting snapshot.
Nighttime Sky is another winner, bringing in some welcome backing vocals to enliven the chorus. It's a sweetly twanging gem that sounds like it came from another era. Restless Moon could be a lost Roy Orbison classic.
I'd highly recommend this album to fans of Buddy Holly, The Mavericks and Dwight Yoakam.
Listen to full songs here.
Check out samples and/or purchase the album for only $5.99 (!!) here.
