Album Review: Winter People - A Year At Sea

Winter People are definitely the new darlings of the alternative folk-rock world. Hailing from Sydney, the six-piece are spearheaded by singer, songwriter and multi-instrumentalist Dylan Baskind. Their debut album, A Year At Sea, is a confident and comprehensive first foray into recording, with a lot going on here from traditional folk ballads through to more modern indie pop songs such as lead single Gallons.

A Year At Sea is at its best when all the band members are in full swing, with complex harmonies and a sophisticated synergy; the combination of drums, guitars, violins and vocals creates a sweeping atmospheric air of hope and optimism. This is something that truly great folk instrumentation can create, and Winter People have been able to tap into the types of sophisticated harmonies that artists like Augie March and Fleet Foxes serve up with inspired ease.

Baskind's voice is at the centre of this swirling microcosm. Leading the charge, his vocal harmonies are beautiful and sultry, ticking all the boxes as he sings about life, love and the countryside. His voice is engaging, unique and memorable, definite criteria for success in the alt-folk genre.

It's easy to see why their debut album has vaulted them to instant popularity. In recent months they've played a number of sold-out shows, toured nationally with Gossling and have even manged to find their way onto the Harvest festival bill - the only Australian artist to do so. No wonder they're being touted as the next big thing.

For a first album A Year At Sea is an arresting piece of music. Winter People have crafted something quite breathtaking and it seems they can only go onwards and upwards from here.