Self Inflicted, No Sympathy is the brand new album by Melbourne singer-songwriter Nick Batterham. This is Nick's fourth solo album in less than 5 years, his third in 3 years. Returning to the themes of 2013's Closing Time At Yah Yah's, this album is packed full of sixteen intimate songs, sparsely arranged with acoustic guitar, piano and strings. Self Inflicted, No Sympathy is another high water mark in the long career of the former Blindside, Earthmen and Cordrazine member. Batterham recorded this album himself from November 2014 to March 2015, with guest appearances by Jane Hendry (Broads, Nymphs, Tiger And Me) on violin and Gareth Skinner (bZARK, The Holy Sea) on cello. With the world-weariness of Elliott Smith or Nick Drake, Batterham’s plaintive vocals express raw emotions that take us deep inside late night lives falling apart. This territory is covered with care for subtlety and beauty. For the most part Batterham is softly spoken and close. Lyrically, the songs are brooding, with self-awareness delivered with minimal embellishment. Even when most bleak, there is hope and joy. The songs are short and melodic, but beware what you sing along to as there are some shadowy elements at play here. "I'm learning now what can't be taught I wish for you a safer port Are we boats that bump and break Or do we even cross each others wake" - DEAD END "Time has no mercy Life never waits Or magically helps you Mend what you break" - ALL THE HEARTS YOU BREAK "She said she's not waiting for them to fail She said she feels even her joy is stale What then remains of her worn out heart Nearer the end than the start" - SNOWFLAKE "When you wake to find your circle has been broken And the rain upon your roof is in your mind Don't be shy with what you need if it isn't me Say goodbye, say goodbye, say goodbye" - NO ANGELS IN YOUR SKY The cover photograph was taken in Pripyat, Chernobyl by Matthew Chuang in February 2014.