We have a great video premiere today from North Carolina-based Americana folk artist, Tyler Nail. The song ‘Book of Love‘ features on his second, full-length album, Feathers which is out now. The song title may sound familiar to many as it was originally written by Magnetic Fields frontman Stephin Merritt and is probably the most well known song from that three-volume concept album 69 Love Songs.
Merrit’s stripped down version would later be re-interpreted by Peter Gabriel with the addition of a double string quartet. Whilst Nail doesn’t go this far, he still brings something new to the table and in doing so makes it very much his own. The intent and delivery feels closer to the original but he adds some very graceful movements to the overall sound using subtle flourishes of ascending cymbals and a lovely combination of acoustic guitar, banjo and Hawaiian guitar. It’s a beautiful song and the video captures that sentiment perfectly.
Feathers is Nail’s second full-length album which mimics his older material with barren, acoustic songs, while also displaying influences of jazz, funk, soul, folk and Appalachian music. The album was recorded in Nail’s home studio, inviting a variety of local artists to collaborate.
Nail tours alongside Johnathan Loos (supporting vocals and guitarist) and Quique Rodriguez-Pastor (bassist) making up The Tyler Nail Trio. The band shares a common love of being on the road and performing original music, along with traditional folk songs. Nail is influenced by Iron and Wine, Ray LaMontagne, Tom Waits, Levon Helm, The Avett Brothers and more.
Feathers is available now, you can get your copy here.