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| How does one pick Nils Erickson out of the throngs that frequent open mics in and around Boston? Unlike the masses of get-up-and-strum- through-my-favorite-song or hey-everybody-I-wrote-this-one-myself types, Nils has an ever rotating (and ever increasing) batch of original songs sprinkled with carefully selected -- and generally unknown -- covers. As one open mic veteran put it, Nils stands out immediately because he turns up with new music each time instead of worn-out standards. New music isn't enough to engage the rowdy, drunken audiences at some open mics, however, who often perk up only when they recognize an old familiar tune. If it is quiet enough, Nils draws them in with casual, dry-wit introductions before each song, but when it is simply too loud he relies on a thoughtfully chosen opening song to gain their attention, typically one of his many rhythmic tunes that catch ears and get feet tapping. A dynamic performer, Nils' own feet bounce and tap to the beat of his percussive fingers as his rich tenor voice draws newly-captured listeners to his lyrics. A serious musician who is already catching the eyes of the people behind Boston's music scene, Nils moved to Massachusetts in fall of 2002 after playing both solo and with bands in Ohio and New York. He currently has three CDs out, as well as the makings for a fourth, all full of his original brand of musical charm. Nils writes about love and loss and confusion like any songwriter, but he does it with fresh, uncluttered analogies, with words wrapped in meaning and nestled perfectly inside well-crafted tunes. Nils also moves far beyond these staple topics to beach blankets, salamanders, and the Philip Morris Corporation, drawing attention to the glossed- over inconsistencies and immoralities of everyday life. And the melodic, earthy nature of Nils' voice and guitar provides an ideal vehicle for the insight his songs have to offer. -Liz Knight Quotes: Caffe Lena's Sara Craig (Saratoga Springs, NY) says: "Engaging songwriting and careful instrumentation make for a varied repertoire...Very danceable!" Discography: New Songs on the New Music Page Little Things (2003) Perfect (2002) The FireStokers (2000) |