Nick Drake: Bryter Later

THIS IS A particularly difficult album to come to any firm conclusion on. For one thing the reaction it produced depends very much on the mood of the listener. It's late night coffee'n chat music. The ten tracks are all very similar – quiet, gentle and relaxing. Nick Drake sends his voice skimming smoothly over the backing. The range of musicians used is apt to catch one unawares. Among the talents employed are Dave Pegg (bass) Dave Mattacks (drums) both of Fairport Convention, Richard Thompson (ld gtr) ex-Fairport, John Cale (celeste, piano and organ) ex-Velvet Underground, Ray Warleigh (alto sax), Chris McGregor (piano) and Pat Arnold and Doris Troy (backing vocals).