On The Fear, Nathan Xander takes a bold and reaching step to transform himself from a solo folk singer into a main stage commodity. The rich textures of his voice power through the chords, be it acoustic or electric, and conjure memories of smoke and sawdust. At its core, The Fear is roots rock and a big chunk of Americana. This album is honest and filled with heart, fear, and ultimately faith.

Nathan was born Union City, Pennsylvania and currently lives in Chicago. After playing in a variety of bands, Nathan eventually fell for the many charms and complete honesty of American folk and classic country music. An active writer, Nathan pushes himself to the point of obsession but that obsession pays off, in a solid, daily output of new material.

Nathan, who also plays the harmonica and piano, picked up playing the guitar at 19, and started writing his own songs at 21. With Xander as the writer/vocal/guitar, the full band is comprised of Ezra Reynolds - keys, Keith Rowland (above/below sea level) - bass/vocals and Ryan Juravic (Danny Black & Healthy White Baby) - drums. With the new arrangements increasingly informed by each member, the result is a substantial and dynamic realization of Xander's original compositions.

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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 Pillars and Tongues.

A solo tour through the northeast and southern United States during August and September 2007 included stops in Memphis, Boston, and the District of Columbia.

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.