Nathan Wiley - November/December 2002
by Jim Kelly
Who: Nathan Wiley
What: Fast-rising alternative-roots star
Where: Summerside, PEI
To Contact: Wendy Phillips/Phillips Public Relations Ltd., (902) 492-0960, www.nathanwiley.com.
Nathan Wiley’s star is definitely on the rise. The Summerside, PEI native has been perking ears all over the country, especially since winning the CBC Radio program Definitely Not The Opera’s “Big Break” contest. The singer/songwriter/multi-instrumentalist’s debut CD, Bottom Dollar, was recorded entirely in his home province with a local crew of compadres, and Wiley on an array of instruments including electric and acoustic guitars, slide and lap steel, bass, drums and organ. The 25-year-old also wrote, arranged and produced the record. Often drawing comparisons to a young Tom Waits, Wiley’s songwriting explores a wide range of characters, emotions and situations. “I don’t really make an effort to write; they just sneak out when I least expect them,” he says of his songs. “Sometimes I’m not even sure what they mean until later. I’ve just learned to leave them alone, instead of trying to mould them after they come out to one thing or the other.” On record, the songs come swaddled in a warm, roots-y sound, with vocals that can either swagger or soothe, and melodies that have a yen to linger. The Waits-ian title track depicts the mindset of a man who is desperate enough to do anything, while the gorgeous ballad “Comeback” travels a forlorn heartscape, and the nostalgic “Home” yearns for the simplicity and comfort of childhood. Touring recently with Sarah Slean and Sarah Harmer has helped gain some extra exposure. Don’t be surprised if Bottom Dollar puts Nathan Wiley on the fast track to the top.