Nick Anastasakis aka 4fro Nick starts his tale away from LA. He was brought up in Crete where street musicians would play for spare change, and he had a deep impact on him. This two-track record was put together because of those early influences, which marched with him through New York and finally to the West Coast.
“Don't Waste My Time” starts out with a strong vibe. The bass line is very tight and catches your attention immediately, but doesn't feel rushed at all in relation to the drums. The guitars wander around the perimeter of the track, providing texture, and the easygoing vocals add the feel of someone moving to a different room, to a room no longer in use.
There's something loose and relaxed about the way it's laid out, but never unfinished. The synths gently creep in and out, without overwhelming the song. It's all in a natural groove, perfect for quiet drives and open roads. Does not push for a big moment; allows feeling to develop naturally.
“Get There Before Noon” increases the tempo and adds some activity. The drumming and bassline drive the song forward, the warm guitars and increasing synths do not overpower the mix. The track is free-spirited and conveys a feeling of wanting to make the best of the time before it's too late.
The project also has a significant visual component. There are videos to go with both songs packed with handmade style images, changing colours, ticking clocks and surreal images. The visuals are in line with the sense of urgency and freedom that the music conveys, adding another layer to the release.
On both tracks, Anastasakis has the company of musicians who have a tremendous amount of experience, including a Grammy-winning keyboardist. The performances demonstrate a good sense of balance – using energy and letting space when needed. There's no superfluous and every element is for the songs.
What holds the release together is its sense of honesty. These songs are about time, movement and making decisions to keep moving rather than standing still. So, after they've been through it and through various people and experiences to get to this sound, Anastasakis is able to provide a release that is both personal and sincere. It's as if an artist has learned from his past experiences and continues to wonder what he will find in his future.
