Mélodie de Nelson: A Pop Anthology
Big Stir, 2025
9/10
Listen to Mélodie De Nelson: A Pop Anthology
The LA singer-songwriter Nelson Bragg brings us a fan favorites, new songs and some of his best yet, where 15 tracks span his power-pop fueled catalog.
The retro and melodic climate of “We’re Gonna Laugh About It” opens with Bragg’s expressive voice guiding the flowing and jangly ideas, and it isn’t long until “Live This Life Too Long” comes with plenty of timeless pop spirit in its thoughtful delivery.
Closer to the middle, “Forever Days” makes great use of the warm acoustic guitar amid the cozy harmonies, while “I’m In No Mood” comes with a nostalgic energy that’s layered playfully.
Deeper still, “Glorious Days”, the best tune, uses skilled drumming and a bit more firmness for the college rock influences, and “Death Of Caroline” exits with dreaminess and a lush environment that’s as infectious as it is timeless.
Nods to The Beach Boys, The Byrds, R.E.M. or even Bob Mould won’t be hard to spot or enjoy here, as Bragg offers the best of pop and folk from his work, and the heartfelt demeanor and wealth of harmonics is appreciated.
Travels well with: Chris Church- Obsolete Path; The Bablers- Like The First Time