The Enthusiast - Ennis Del Mar (100% Positive) [Folk]

The Enthusiast are a bunch of likely lads from Australia, and, well, that's about all I know. It seems to be an increasing trend for artists to create an air of mystery and not let everything hang out online these days - I'm hoping it's a sign of peak social media, and is just fine with me, though it does mean I have to waffle a bit here where I'd usually put the artist bio. If you want to do a bit of detective work though you could start over at their Instagram account or check out their refreshingly retro website (first link).

What is certain though is that they released their debut album on January 8th and it's a pretty cool listen. It's quite a wild ride through various folk strains that can veer off into rockier territory at any time, and bodes well if they stick around. One track in particular rose to the top and jumped out at me though, "Ennis del Mar".

Starting off in mellow folktronic, field recording infused fashion the sound of an acoustic guitar lays down the track's folk credentials and paves the way for the fragile, warm yet wistful vocals to float through the speakers. To elevate this introspective tale the supporting cast look to the US for inspiration and head off into cosmic Americana territory - more campfire though than hoe-down. To further cloud the already genre fluid waters someone dusts off their sax, teasing it at first before genly threading it through the second half of the track to fine effect.

Come for the single, stay for the album and keep an eye on this crew.

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Playlist Companion

Find The Enthusiast in the Slow Folk (& Slow Balearic) Playlist.