Richard BodinEnigmatic Brunch Records, an independent label from Kansas released an album by Eggs On Mars a couple of months ago that really got my attention. They seem to specialise in music with a retro vibe reminiscent of sunny-soaked garage pop from the late sixties with psychedelic hints. So I was curious when they released Enduro by Wills Van Doorn recently.
Little is known publicly about Wills Van Doorn. Originally from Portland, Oregon, he seems to have settled in the Kansas City area, where he likes to collaborate with local musicians. The American multi-instrumentalist has quietly built a catalogue of independently released records rooted in classic American songwriting. His music blends folk, heartland rock and power pop influences with an unmistakably DIY spirit.
Sun-soaked power pop with a retro heart
The album opens with a power-pop intro with a good bluesy texture. “Enduro”, the title track, is admittedly inspired by Big Star‘s Radio City own opening track “O My Soul”. Although the voice didn’t quite click with me at the start, it remains a strong opener. After only a couple of listen my feet were already tapping along to the rhythm.
The next two tracks were both released as singles ahead of the album. The first single “Ever Wonder Why” is a good sun-soaked ballad. The voice this time fits the tune much better, as it soars with melodious harmonies. “Aero” follows, which we covered recently, hits home with its sliding guitar reminiscing of George Harrison, doubled up with harmonies between The Beatles and The Beach Boys.
From there, the album unfolds quite naturally. Wills Van Doorn delivers a good and consistent sophomore album. It feels like a perfect album for the summer. The kind of music that you would listen while sitting back sunbathing, eyes closed, ears wide opened. Even the tracklist sounds very fitting for such activity: “Aero”, “Sun”, “Wind”, “Wake Up”, “Float”…
Final thoughts
If the vocals didn’t quite click with me on the opening track, they fit well with the rest of the album. The strength of the songwriting, arrangements and effortless melodic touch more than compensate. In the end Enduro is an easy album to return to. And it was released on a 14th of July, which is not lost on me.
