Too Late Now
Susan Nikas is a singer-songwriter from the San Dimas area of California. Her career began in 1987 when she joined the band Clay County as their singer. Clay County was founded by banjoist Jim Dawson, and mandolinist Frank Abraham. Bassist Jim Logue joined them in the studio but was soon replaced by Leslie Spitz. It was during these studio sessions that Nikas become acquainted with many of the local area artists such as the late Byron Berline, John Moore, Steve Spurgeon, and especially the late Dennis Caplinger, as they sat in as guests on the recording.
Nikas not only was the singer but also as songwriter, composed most of the material on the groups many projects. Through the following eight projects, she become the band’s headliner, as she continued to be the primary song source for the group.
Now by herself, Nikas is joined on the new project by Les Johnson on guitar, and the late Dennis Caplinger. On this project Caplinger plays fiddle, banjo, bass, mandolin, and slide guitar. As usual most of the material on the album is written by Nikas with the exception of the traditional “Old Churchyard,” and “Roving Gambler,” and J. Boyes’ “Goodnight Song.”
Nikas’ selections include the title cut “Too Late Now,” “My Mom’s Grandad,” “Use It Up,” and “Like A Broken Piece Of China.” Her songs speak of relationships, family, and are even a little political. Caplinger contributes all of the instruments and Johnson mainly covers lead guitar alongside Nikas’. Nikas’ vocals are quite pleasant, however the harmony phrasing is a bit off. There is little information on the CD other than song titles, etc. Other information was found from the web site below. This is a nice showcase of Nikas’ songwriting and Caplinger really creates the music itself.
