author: Minor 7th Webzine
It's astounding how quickly a second-generation immigrant to America can assimilate the culture and authentically make it his own, especially when talent catalyzes the transformation. Fred Niznik, a Brooklynite whose parents originally hail from the Ukraine, has dusted off Russia's proud but staid 19th century classical music heritage to successfully resurrect himself amidst the modern pop, jazz and R&B idioms of his family's adopted homeland. As suggested by his first CD's title, it's a renaissance of sorts for Niznik, both personally and interculturally, but especially because his brand of pop is so very good and so quintessentially American. The apple pie stamp-of-approval has even been bestowed by MTV, who recently licensed the music on "The Renaissance LP" for the upcoming season of "The Real World." Listeners might hear traces of John Mayer, Jason Mraz or Gavin DeGraw in Niznik's music, though an undercurrent of Brasilian jazz oozes around the edges of the two openers "Emotional Rollercoaster" and "Free Again," making this music Niznik's very own hybrid. The R&B-inflected "White Soul" and "Your Number" ratchets the temperature up, the mercury rising very close to the fiery and soulful intensity of another rising star, Marc Broussard. The gulf between Niznik and Broussard's "grab-you quotient" is largely one of production than of talent: only when played side-by-side to Broussard does Niznik's barebones production sound a little sparse and restrained. I'd recommend the American approach for his next release... spare no expense for a full-blown ride to the top.
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Let's just say this guy is a star- 4 stars, 2nd album will be 5!
author: Chente Cano
I heard Fred Niznik playing at Club Groove earlier this month, and to be honest, I was suprised that such a small place could hold such a great talent. This album, from top to bottom, is smooth, silky, and catchy all in one (and it puts my girlfriend in the mood!) The production is great, the album artwork is pro, it is one of the best CD's of 2004 and 2005. My fave tracks are "I Need You More", "Your Number", "White Soul", and "Free Again", as well as the rest of the album...
All I have to say is, guys, watch out for this guy...HE WILL be big sooner than later, and I am glad I was there to see him perform in front of only 75 (which will be 7500) by next year... Chente Cano
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Instantly Intriguing
author: mary
I just met Fred and Stevie at Bonnaroo and heard them play in the accoustic tent. He instantly made me a huge fan. His music is so soothing and yet makes you wanna rock. His lyrics are even better. This c.d. is a must have, for sure. You won't be disappointed!
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Poetry in motion
author: Elaine L.
While driving on busy Jersey roads I've realized that ambience comes from within, especially when you have a great soundtrack to go along with it. With its simplicity and honest demeanor this cd is full of romance, reality, and the beauty of life. Fred and his guitar are a beautiful combination together with soothing melodies that linger long after the song is done.
This is a great CD from a great artist.
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