Phil Roy presents
Nick Drake:
A Celebration of His Music and Life

Show Description

Featuring the rarely screened film "A Skin Too Few: The Days of Nick Drake" by Jerome Berkvens

"A haunting portrait of a young man who, while genuinely gifted and loved by friends and family, couldn't cope with the world." -Joshua Katzman, CHICAGO READER

"A tender tribute to Nick Drake, the English singer-songwriter who died in 1974." - Stephen Holden, NEW YORK TIMES

Also featuring performances of Nick Drake songs by Roy, John Francis, Kristin Diable, Kelley McRae and many of your favorite Philadelphia and NYC recording artists; more surprises to be announced shortly.

Phil Roy has had his songs recorded by Ray Charles, Joe Cocker, The Neville Brothers, Mavis Staples and many others. His songs appear in numerous films including the Academy award winners "As Good As It Gets" and "Leaving Las Vegas". An WFUV Favorite his solo albums "grouchyfriendly" and "Issues + Options" have been released to extensive critical acclaim. Stephen Holden of the New York Times called "Issues + Options" one of the 2 or 3 most satisfying albums by an American singer songwriter".

John Francis' passionate performances and eloquent songwriting have recently drawn comparisons to U2's Bono, Jeff Buckley, Bruce Springsteen, and Dylan. It is not imitation that has received attention. It is John Francis' distinctive voice, lyrically and melodically, that captures his listeners and fans. "...whether he's finding the grace in ordinary moments, or sharing his perspective on the struggles of the day, John Francis makes music that captures life in all its minutia and majesty." -The Intelligencer

Just over two years ago Baton Rouge, Louisiana native Kristin Diable dropped her life in the swamps to test out fresher waters in New York City and judging by her standing room only shows throughout the city, she made the right choice. "You only have to listen to a few seconds of Kristin Diable's 'Sister Sadie' to hear that she sings songs that have roots in the blues, folk, and soul. Just 22, Kristin's been writing her own songs for about six years now. Her songwriting and performing is strong enough to have established her as one of New York City's more promising young artists." - Voice of America

Kelley McRae began her career as an actress studying drama at Southern Methodist University, where her decision to enroll in an elective guitar course provided a change of course. The result was an immediate connection to the craft of songwriting. "The only thing I can equate it to is falling in love," she explains, "where you just find what to you is home." McRae moved to New York, where she performed a series of shows at the Knitting Factory and the Living Room. Following this, she set out to make her debut, teaming with producer JD Foster (Calexico, Laura Cantrell). They recorded the album at Brooklyn Recording Studios, with musicians including Sarah Fullen and Virginia Kull on vocals, Jake Sanders and Dave Schramm on guitar, Sean McClowry and JD Foster on bass, Zach McNees on Wurlitzer, Ted Reichman on accordion and Joan Baez's long-time drummer, George Javori.