Nicholas David

Yesterday’s Gone

by Rhetta Akamatsu

Nicholas David will release an excellent new album, Yesterday’s Gone, in November. The album was produced by Samantha Fish for her Wild Hearts label.

David is from St Paul, MN, and first came to national attention in 2012 on NBC’s “The Voice,” where he made the finals, ending in 3rd place. Then, in 2015 he opened for the Devon Allman Project. He accepted the invitation to join the Project as keyboard player for the 2018-2019 tour. On the tour, he met Samantha Fish, who invited him to New Orleans to record a collection of 13 songs, 11 of which are on the album. David will also be touring with Fish in support of the album in December.

From the first song, “Hole in the Bottom,” you hear the soul and the poetry in David’s music. Throughout the album, his ability as a songwriter shines.”Heavy Heart,” the second song, has a strong Southern soul sound with a touch of country and jazz. “With or Without” continues to show the sincerity and sensitivity that make David so appealing.

“I’m Interested” has a true vintage sound and has the smoothness of Al Green, with a jazzy touch to the accompaniment that evokes Dr. John. Then, “Peel Back the Leaves” offers wonderful keyboards and wistful, touching lyrics. “Curious” is more upbeat and pop-oriented. Next, “Okay” is very catchy and could easily be a country/pop crossover.

The next songs, “Let u Go, and “Times Turning” seal the fact that David just bends genres blend country, blues, and soul. Mostly, like all of these songs, they are uniquely Nicholas David.

“Stars” is predominately a country ballad, with lyrics that will stir your heart. And the last song, “Little By Little,” has a great preaching chorus about how we treat each other and a hot musical break.

The album proves that David is a fabulous songwriter with a great voice who knows how to use it. Fish has done a flawless job with the production. The album will make you feel peaceful and satisfied in the way that great singer/songwriters often do. I highly recommend it!