Nick Hobson - [Encore]

​Nick Hobson

​[Encore]
self-released; 2017

3.4 out of 5

By Jamie Funk
​

Nick Hobson is an artist who is just getting his start with music, He released Black Rope which shows some potential as well as a lot of room for growth. The album is completely DIY and sounds like it. Suffice it to say it's not the recording quality you expect from a pro studio but it is respectable for a home recordist.

​His music is on the more mellow side with poppy hooks. He implements atmospheric pads, clean guitar and electronic beats. Up first is “Dreams” which is indicative of the title. He has a soulful voice and sings, “You know I dreamed of you last night Can't seem to keep you out of em I scream, I fuss, I fight Still I can't keep you out of em.” The music is a bit ominous and dark.

“Given Up” has more of a singer/songwriter vibe. The song had its moments but “Home” was a clear highlight. I liked the the smooth guitar and the beat was one of the best on the album. The next track “Pink Room” has a more ambient feel. The percussion lays far back in the mix and the electronic piano and keys are up front in the mix. I thought the instrumental last half had a nice sounding lead guitar but it went a little too long.

“Kinky Machine” contains spoken word and didn't move the needle much for me. The song’s energy was static and the song felt like a filler that would have been more effective at about a minute long. The best tracks moving forward were “Stay Put” and the closer “Spanish Waves.”

Hobson definitely has talent. His lead guitar is solid but it's also been replicated a million and a half times since Hendrix got popular, The drum programming is basic and he sticks to basic 4/4 time. I’d like to seem him push this more and experiment with tempo changes as well as different time signatures. He also may want to consider working with other people. I think a real drummer and a bassist could add a lot to the music. 

Hobson is at his best on songs like “Home.” He has a really good voice and the mellow soulful vibe fit him. As of right now he is a case of wait and see but I’m looking forward to more.

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