Nick Drake

Bryter Layter

First released1971

Bryter Layter, Nick Drake's second album, was recorded primarily at Sound Techniques studio in Chelsea, London between 1970 and 1971. Producer John Wood oversaw the sessions, working with engineer Jeff Griffin to capture Drake's music in a more arranged and orchestrated setting than his debut. The album featured contributions from various session musicians and orchestral arrangements by Robert Kirby, marking a departure from the sparse instrumentation of Five Leaves Left. Recording took place during a period when Drake was struggling with depression, yet the production quality and sonic clarity represented a technical advancement in the studio work. The album was released in December 1971 and showcased a more polished, contemporary production approach while maintaining the intimacy characteristic of Drake's songwriting.