Nick Drake

Family Tree (Island)

By Dan Nishimoto
Published: July 14th, 2007 | 9:45am

In less than three years, singer-songwriter Nick Drake reinvigorated folk-pop. He never received that prestige during his short lifetime, but his three albums ensured such recognition. Though his music has been listened to and loved by many (even used in VW's Cabrio commercial), little has been gleaned about his artistic process. His records were intensely meditative, but more allusory than personal. Like his constant introversion, Drake attracted wandering ears, yet remained elusive of source or reason.

Family Tree is thus a significant addition to Drake's legacy. Collecting private recordings when he lived at home with his family in the late '60s, this compilation finds a young Drake in search of his voice. The artist who publicly insisted on recording originals is extensively documented for the first time covering blues and folk standards, as well as Dylan, Bert Jansch, and Blind Boy Fuller tunes. Several originals are also featured, including experiments like the metronomic "Time Piece" and the aching "Blossom." Perhaps most revealing are the most offbeat numbers, notably a duet with his sister Gabrielle on "All My Trials" and a performance of Mozart's "Kegelstatt Trio" with his aunt and uncle and himself on clarinet, and the between song asides where a relaxed Drake laughs at his mistakes. From an interpretive standpoint, this material may not reveal a greater understanding of his subject matter, but reengages Drake as less an abstract icon and more as an artist working in his family's loving musical presence.