Review of Nelson Bragg's Day Into Night
by Panayiotis

A Stunning Debut CD from this NEW Artist

Nelson Bragg, who’s known as a member of Brian Wilson’s touring band, has just released his debut CD, DAY INTO NIGHT (SideBMusic SBM 1006001) and it‘s by far one of the most exciting CDs I‘ve yet to hear this year. Listeners will discover Bragg’s exceptional talent not only as a musician, but also as a songwriter and artist. He combines clever and inquisitive lyrics, sweet arrangements, with a straightforward smooth production, creating music worthy of repeated listens. This freshman offering, didn’t just spill from my speakers, it gushed out creating a spectrum of sound, reminiscent of a waterfall pouring out a mixture of all the good things pop music was about in the 1960s, mixed in with the Classic FM Rock sound, loved in the 1970s.

With the help of producer Steve Refling, Bragg’s strong singing throughout the CD, flows gently throughout a production which never overwhelms. From the opening “Forever Days”, it is clear Bragg is confident and knows what direction he’s headed in. But this is only the beginning as there are so many wonderful songs on this CD, including, “I Dare You (Show Me Love)” which is full of glorious sounds, which add to the song’s implied message of a lover’s redemption. The exquisite and haunting cover of George Harrison’s “Dark Hair Lady”, is definitely not one to be missed. Refling combines a wonderful array of instruments including jangling 12-string guitars, ukelele & mandolins, harpsichord, sparse horns, recorders, lots of percussion (as expected), and a steel guitar, which echoes throughout. This combination is extremely apparent on “Return the Love You Take” which also continues the Beatles’ connection with a message reminiscent of “The End” from ABBEY ROAD. Bragg takes the message a step further, by almost asking for forgiveness, about the way we treat, and at times hurt ones we love and trust. Love is precious, and we need to acknowledge and return this love to those who help us throughout our lives. Bragg’s insight is clearly evident, and this confirms his talent as an exceptional songwriter.

And it continues. “Every Minute of the Day” further reminds us, even with love, things aren’t always pleasant, and choosing “right versus wrong” is sometimes difficult. The song’s full backing vocals, added to a musical arrangement of cellos, harpsichords, and trumpet (from Wilson bandmate Probyn Gregory) make it feel as if Crosby, Stills & Nash, teamed up with Harper’s Bizarre to create this beautiful cornucopia of sounds. This is a wonderful song.

But let me step back and explain how this CD is broken up into two parts (like the two sides of an Elpee--Remember Elpees??). The first six songs form the “Day” section of the CD (ie Side One of the Elpee).
This section includes songs (many I’ve already mentioned) which follow a more “upbeat” theme. The second part (ie Side Two of the Elpee) is the “Night” section of the release (tracks 7-12) with darker songs, using more sublime themes, and showcasing a more melancholy side of Bragg’s writing style, including subjects ranging from missing a child, to divorce and getting over a loved one.

One song is “Death of Caroline, which many Beach Boys fans will connect to “Caroline, No” from the album PET SOUNDS. Is it influenced by Brian
Wilson? Maybe. This is a dark song which one might perceive, as taking the sadness of Wilson’s “Caroline, No“, and going beyond, specifically to the point, where you‘ve moved on from a lost love, and have killed this person in your heart. The sweet, catchy melody (with a hint of country at times--think of Floyd Cramer), a sweeping counter vocal chorus, plus haunting strings near the end, encourage nothing short of a feast for the ears. Shame, Brian Wilson wasn’t invited to add a vocal part, as his voice would have been a definite “bonus”. Still, the “repeat” button on my CD player let this one play for an hour or so, before I moved on.

“Don’t Be Afraid of the Dark”, further exposes the dark side of Bragg’s personality. With near trauma inducing lines like: “There’s always a blanket to cover your face, when the night comes and scares you
away--You don’t know which one of us is crazy--I do”, it‘s clear Bragg‘s character in this song, may be a little off balanced. But what’s not clear is who he’s talking to. Is it a child? An ex-lover? Is he playing the stalker? Or simply giving friendly advice? This song keeps the listener guessing, and one is never sure. Bragg, finds a nice balance and sings with an unwavering voice, which may leave some uneasy. But this is the beauty of the song. It‘s subtle, yet strong, and Bragg is not afraid to show us this dark side.

This continues with “Lived this Life Too Long“. This gem is again darker, and more introspective, with lyrics which perhaps remind of someone confronting someone who‘s done them wrong. It includes the lines “How long did you think you could follow me, How long did you think you’d last before they’d carried you away”. It is somewhat threatening, or perhaps a bit demeaning as well. A great song.

DAY INTO NIGHT has a lot more to offer. It has something for everyone and anyone who still wants to hear “pop” tunes with an edge. Bragg has proven he’s glowing with talent, and the future looks brighter should
he continue in the direction he’s started on this release. I recommend this CD to anyone who wants to hear great songs, crafted to appear simple on the surface, but full of twists and turns, revealed more and more with each listening. This should be all over the radio. Get out and get it.

Panayiotis Bogdanos has been contributing articles to many Beach Boys’ Fanzines, worldwide including BEACH BOYS STOMP in the UK and CALIFORNIA SAGA from Germany, for nearly 25 years. He currently resides in California, and prides himself in helping to keep
“pop” music alive. He has worked as a Producer in the Radio Business, in Record Distribution, and is also an avid collector of music. His knowledge of collecting 7” 45 RPM records by the Beach Boys is known worldwide.