A Year At Sea is the debut album from Sydney’s Winter People. Released on the 21st September the album is a real delight; a sophisticated synergy of the styles, with a rich modern approach rubbing shoulders with more traditional folk sensibilities. For a debut album it’s really quite ambitious, with moody atmospherics and swirling instrumentation.
Musically the album shifts with ease between spiralling mesmerising soundscapes and the more stripped back ethereal folk songs. “Wishingbone” is an early highlight, with its charming instrumentation giving way intermittently to atmospheric bursts of distortion. “Gallons” is another favourite; it starts softly, but quickly builds atmosphere and pace. The melancholy tinged vocals providing the perfect accompaniment to the echoing instrumentation.
“Winter Coat” is the perfect example of the albums more stripped back moments. The simple mix of gentle fingerpicked guitar and understated vocal brings to mind the likes of early Bob Dylan and Nick Drake. “Valley Hymn” is another song that demands a mention, with its beautiful violin intro and delicate guitar and vocal harmonies.
A Year At Sea is a sumptuous and assured debut, and easily ranks as one of the best releases of the year for the genre. Consistent and cohesive despite it’s shifts in style, and lyrically really quite striking. The band have crafted a sound which pays homage to their many inspirations, but still remains distinctly their own.
Review Score: 8.5 out of 10
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