"To stand out from the horde of singer-songwriters in the world of music you need something that marks you as being special; something that causes listeners to realise that they are not hearing more ho-hummery from wailing, angst-ridden, guitar-toting hopefuls. Jay Fraser demonstrates on this CD that he does have something special; that particular something having been developed over the years, and which is reflected in his impressive credentials prior to this release. This “songwriting troubadour” has enjoyed a splash of international acclaim, details of which can be found on his website
Recorded at Huon Delta Studios by Geoff Francis, “3 days, 7 lovers & the philistine” is this seven-track CD release. Jay wrote six of the tracks, with the seventh, “One kind favour”, penned by Blind Lemon Jefferson. Peter Hicks capably helps out with electric guitar, bass, lap steel, and harmonica on “One kind favour”. Jay plays all other instruments and, of course, provides the vocals, including the occasional harmony. Across the span of seven songs we get a cross-section of Jay’s repertoire and some of his influences. For example, “Three Days”, the introductory track, bears no small allegiance to the restless, understated whimsy of Paul Simon, even to the double-tracked vocals. I detect a Tim Finn/Crowded house feel about “Someday Girl”, and “Mount Improbable” has a dash of essence of Neil Young.
Throughout the CD we are treated to a confident, yet sensitive vocalist. Jay sings with strength and conviction, but with elegant restraint. Take, for example, “While you were next to me”, a song that is lyrically unchallenging, yet comes across as hauntingly and powerfully moving because of the superb vocal delivery. As I listen to this CD I am totally convinced of the sincerity underlining each track. I am certain that Jay picked each track because of the particular, and his belief in the, story he wanted to tell, as opposed to throwing together a compilation of interesting songs.
I am not overly keen on technological gimmicks in recordings, particularly when they present essentially acoustic music. I prefer to hear clarity and integrity of the acoustic instruments and vocals. Such wizardry is pleasantly rare in this set, and I get the clarity and integrity I wish for. However, where it has been used, it has been done so with restraint and to great effect. For example, the ‘response’ delay effect to the ‘question’ main line in “Old Oaks Road” is brilliant in conception and execution. Throughout the CD there is this occasional use of effects that add to, rather than distract from, the value of the tracks. The CD is well recorded; the guitars are clean, crisp and resonant (and of course, excellently played!)."
- review by Mike Raine 2008
BIO:
3 Days, 7 Lovers & The Philistine, is Jay's second CD. Attempting to focus on quality rather than quantity, it caresses 7 tracks, 6 original and one a rendition of Blind Lemon's 'One Kind Favor'. Its got no specific style, but a flow without the hustle. It was made in the few days of studio time that Jay could afford, with beautiful layers of instrumentation donated by Jay's talented friend, Peter Hicks.
Having enjoyed both local & international attention for his unique and heartfelt songwriting he was a finalist in both the 2006 & 2007 Tasmanian Folk Federation Songwriting Competition - winning the People's Choice award in 2007. His song 'Falsely Accused' was selected to feature on Neil Young's Living With War Songs Page.
Hitting the live scene with his energetic and passionate performances in mid 2005, his resume has grown from acoustic singer-songwriter evenings to performing at international festivals hosted in his home state including the Cygnet Folk Festival, Tamar Valley Folk Festival, Taste of Tasmania and the Antarctic Mid-Winter Festival on Hobart's waterfront.
In 2006 his passion led him far and wide to the Hollywood of country music, Nashville Tennessee, to play several well-received shows, including a spirited performance at the World famous Bluebird Cafe.
He had the honour of supporting internationally acclaimed folk artist Minna Raskinen of Finland and the legendary Dick Gaughan of Scotland.
In mid 2007, he ventured to the UK for a string of shows throughout England and Scotland including the Filey Folk Festival and Cottingham Springboard Festival with a live set and interview on BBC Radio.
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