4fro Nick blurs all the genre lines on a psychedelic double single release
Some artists work comfortably within genres but plenty others treat genres more like suggestions. On his latest double single release, 4fro Nick, the musical project of Greek-born, now US-based artist Nick Anastasakis, seems far more interested in charting new territory than staying within those boring confined lines. With “Don’t Waste My Time (LA Mix)” and “Get There Before Noon (LA2 Mix),” 4fro Nick delivers two immersive & adventurous tracks that explore soo much sound within tight timeframes.
Anastasakis’ artistic journey stretches from the island of Crete to New York and now Los Angeles, and that sense of movement permeates these songs in their bones. There’s a curiosity of sound embedded in every note, like an eagerness to blend influences and reshape them into something uniquely his own. Believe us when we say these songs are difficult to categorize in the best possible way. Indie rock serves as the foundation, but soul, psychedelic textures, modern pop, and spacey electronics all drift into the mix…sometimes at once. Calling it genre-defying may be overused in music criticism, but here it feels earned.
“Don’t Waste My Time (LA Mix),” just got shared on June 16th. Right off the bat it radiates confidence without sacrificing introspection. The song explores the value of time, perhaps the one resource none of us can replenish. Yet rather than delivering its message with cynicism or bitterness, the track carries an uplifting energy that makes its reflections feel empowering. Anastasakis’ vocals are truly at the center of this one. His delivery feels conversational, but it allows the lyrics to resonate naturally.
The instrumentation throughout is exceptional. Tasteful guitar work weaves through lush arrangements while the synths create a dreamlike atmosphere. Everything feels like it’s swirling all around you at once, headphones are a must! Grammy-winning keyboardist Leo Genovese’s contributions are killer, adding layers of color and depth that give the song that expansive feel. The synths become part of the architecture and we simply can’t imagine this one without them.
Meanwhile on the second track, “Get There Before Noon (LA2 Mix)” they shift the focus toward living fully in the present. Thematically, it complements its counterpart beautifully, offering a reminder that life’s fleeting moments are meant to be embraced rather than postponed. Though we do think lyrics are important always, just on the first listen we gravitated to these songs because they were so unique sounding.
The rhythm section deserves significant praise across both songs. The drummer Johnny Radelat brought such a subtle groove, while George Athanas provides bass work that grounds the songs even as they drift into more experimental territory. What stands out most above anything is the atmosphere. There’s sonic exploration here that recalls the adventurous spirit of classic psychedelic rock while remaining firmly rooted in contemporary indie music, but with a twist.
4fro Nick isn’t simply making indie rock, him and the band are building and constructing their own language. These songs are so different, but in a way that makes your ears perk up the whole way through. Do yourselves the biggest favor and click those links below to listen in and follow along for more!
Listen to “Don’t Waste My Time (LA Mix)” & “Get There Before Noon (LA2 mix)”
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