Why I Like It:
I first heard of Rick Fast *ahem sorry Nick Fast* (he will get my joke) not at a concert, nor a Spotify playlist, or a blog like this one. It was at work. That's right this is someone I know in real life and I first heard his music at a work event. This was back in 2021 (I think, this was covid times so things blur) and he was doing some acoustic songs after our work event's supper. The most memorable thing I recall was the vocals, from this normally quiet guy, that were now soaring and capturing everyone's attention. I also remember going to him after the set and saying I was really impressed and hope he creates more music (I believe he played mostly covers but also a couple originals). Low and behold, it's 2024 and I find out Nick has a fully realized album that honestly blew my expectations away.
Seriously, I'm doing this write up because I genuinely like this music and hope others are turned onto it. So what makes Better Late Than Never stand out? Right away, when I heard the first notes of "Here's My Soul" there were thoughts of the heartland rock legends such as Tom Petty, Bob Segar, and The Boss- Bruce Springsteen. However, there was something else there as well, that was distinctly Canadian (or Canadiana if you will) and I'm hearing the inspirations of Canadian greats like Matt Mays, Sam Roberts, and The Tragically Hip.
To me Canadiana is music that you can listen to while driving alone through the prairies or sitting around the campfire with friends and reminiscing about times gone past. It's music with ties to our unique geography and natural world that is intertwined with our lives. That's why I think many Canadian songs are more narrative, that sing about times and places, as we travel through the landscapes to get to that special somebody. Or to work long toiling hours in harsh environments to support the family or fund that dream. It's all relatable experiences that needs a soundtrack, and music such as Nick's supply that.
Song's like "City in The Sun" and "Coyote's Song" are the soundtracks to our dessert city and surrounding area, that give it soul and life, that I will be playing as I drive through the open grassland forests. Because of how personal this album is for me, I did selfishly want to keep it hidden for myself, however this music is too good to horde and Nick deserves some limelight. Anyone get my Rush nod here? Ok I will see myself out, but seriously listen to this music!
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Highlighted song and lyrics:
City in The Sun- "That city in the sun, it brings me home"
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Similar bands to check out:
Tommy Carson, The Stonefruits, Gleneagle, Echo Beach
Some great music to check out from our town!
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Links to check out:
