Don't Just Do Something... Sit There!

Nathan's critically acclaimed acoustic album, "Don't Just Do Something... Sit There!", is a testament to the power of limitations in the creative process. By recording the entire album in just two days, with each track done in only one take without any ‘click tracks’ like the old school days of recording, Nathan and his team were able to capture a raw, unfiltered energy that is often lost in modern music production.

The album features Nathan on 6 & 12 string acoustic guitars, tamboura, human beatbox and lead vocals, along with the incomparable Kazz Nakahara on a 120 year old double bass and rhythm maestro Chinta Reis on African percussion (Djembe and Bagarabou). Together, the trio weaves a rich tapestry of sound, with Nathan's heart-felt vocals leading the charge.

What's particularly impressive about this album is the fact that it was recorded without any overdubs or redos or robotic click guide track. This means that every note you hear is exactly as it was played in the moment, warts and all. It's a refreshing change from the heavily polished, over-produced music, which is quantised to a grid with autotune that dominates the airwaves these days.

The standout tracks on the album include the Nick Drake-esque “And the Wind Set Her Free,” in 5/4 time that showcases Kaye’s musical prowess, “Wake Up” an introspective ballad about shaking out of somnambulant routines and waking up to a new day that showcases Nathan's emotive vocals with the unusual 11/8 time in the bridge, and “Human Life," an upbeat track with a catchy, yet poignant hook with an infectious rhythm based off a beatbox. But really, every song on the album is a gem, each one a testament to the power of in-the-moment performance.

The album's final two songs, which were captured live with a full band, are especially notable. The mono bootleg-style recordings capture the energy and excitement of a live performance, and serve as a fitting end to an album that celebrates the raw, unfiltered essence of music.

Overall, "Don't Just Do Something... Sit There!" is a triumph of creativity and musicianship. By embracing limitations and eschewing the trappings of modern production, Nathan and his crew have created a record that is both timeless and relevant, a reminder that sometimes the most valuable things in life are the most straightforward.