"Xander walks the line ably, dancing (slowly) with the past but moving (surely) toward the future." - Chris Heaney, WNUR 89.3 - CHICAGO "...the first requirement of any successful artist is the ability to create music that connects emotionally with an audience, and this Nathan does effortlessly." - Paul King, the Daily Vault "This is a stumbling, shuffling treat that will appeal to lovers of Neil Young at his chaotic best." - Tom Fahey, AmericanaOK.com ------------------------------------------------------ Nathan Xander was born a Pisces in, Union City, Pennsylvania in 1983 and currently lives in Chicago. After playing in a variety of bands, Nathan eventually fell in love with American folk and classic country music. Nathan, who also plays the harmonica and piano, picked up playing the guitar at 19, and started writing his own songs at 21. He is inspired daily by the work and lives of songwriters such as Kris Kristofferson, Townes Van Zandt, and Neil Young. Nathan likes to drive, smokes a lot, and enjoys sprawling out on a 10-foot black couch in the late morning hours reading Richard Brautigan. ------------------------------------------------------ Swiftly, Surely, a 7-song mini LP released in August 2007 on the artist’s own imprint aww…rats, is a collection of songs written and performed by Nathan Xander since winter 2006. The album was recorded with percussion from Evan Hydzik of Chicago's Pillars and Tongues. A solo tour, to celebrate the release, through the northeast and southern United States during August and September 2007 included stops in Memphis, Boston, Atlanta, and New York City. Swiftly, Surely draws inspiration from On the Beach Era Neil Young, Gram Parsons’ Cosmic American music and Dylan’s thin wild mercury sound and finds itself somewhere in between. Straightforward, honest song writing and a unique lyrical prowess are the priorities for Xander. Nathan tours frequently all over the country. Please check his website for up to date concert information.