From the bustling city of Johannesburg to the serene landscapes of Surrey, and finally making a mark in Southern Oregon, the musical journey of Nic McNamara, the man behind the band ‘Summer Colds’, is nothing short of inspiring. Born to Stevin McNamara, a renowned recording engineer who collaborated with iconic musicians such as Lucky Dube and Brenda Fassi, Nic’s early life was a melange of musical notes and recording studios.
The vibrant tapestry of his life is reflected in his music. As a young boy in Surrey, he witnessed his father work alongside Robert Mutt Lange, producing albums for stellar artists like Bryan Adams and Tina Turner. This exposure to diverse musical genres from an early age shaped Nic’s eclectic taste.
The United States in the ’90s saw a young Nic immersing himself in music studies and recording engineering. His first musical venture, ‘Black Bears Fire’, was rooted in Folk Rock and garnered attention in Southern Oregon. However, the artist’s constant thirst for experimentation led him to adopt the moniker ‘Summer Colds’ – a shift towards a heavier, Indie Rock/Power Pop sound.
Summer Colds’ debut album, “Here Comes Nothing,” released in 2019, is a beautiful juxtaposition of dark, poetic lyrics and the fuzzy pop essence reminiscent of the golden era of the ’90s Alternative Rock. With tracks like “Whiteout” and “Killing Flies”, the album is an auditory treat. Power chords, melodic guitars, and Nic’s evocative lyrics paint a vivid soundscape that can best be described as “Weezer for emo kids.”
The band’s latest single, “Copenhagen,” delves into the complexities of a clandestine love affair. Accompanying this emotionally charged track is a 3D lyric video, meticulously crafted using the Unreal Engine, showcasing the band’s commitment to merging music with cutting-edge technology.
Despite the challenges posed by the pandemic, Nic’s unwavering passion for music didn’t wane. He utilized this time to work on ‘Summer Colds’ sophomore album, “Missing Out.” Teasing a harder, denser, and more textured sound, fans eagerly await its release.
From the recording studios of Johannesburg to the global Indie Rock stage, ‘Summer Colds’ is a testament to Nic McNamara’s enduring love for music, and his journey is a melody that continues to resonate with many.