ENIAM is a genre-bending new group of musicians based in Maine (the band’s name is Maine backwards). Their sound is a wild mix of Funk, Jazz, Hip-hop, Rock and Psychedelic moods. More interested in creating a vibe than embracing a genre, the band’s bio reads like a verse of beat poetry. And it suits their sound perfectly, “A menagerie creating a collage of sound. Utilizing a sundry of genres, emotions, insanity and reality. Cursed, Blessed, Hood, and Good Structured Spontaneity.”
“Up” is the digital debut from ENIAM, released worldwide to all major streaming services on February 16, 2021. The 8:01 jam grooves on a chill downtempo rhythm. Performed live in the studio, the track has a natural, organic feel. The seasoned and highly trained quartet of bass, drums, keys and guitar flow together in an easy funk. Meanwhile, vocalist and bandleader Marlan “Rev Ruger” Hinnant delivers a visual, poetic narrative. With loosely associated images of life, love and social commentary he describes the search for a higher plain of existence. “I’m gonna stay way up. I’m in the clouds now, don’t plan on coming down. I’m up.”
For most of the track the band maintains a mellow groove. However at around the 6:00 mark they break into a cool fusion riff jam. Wah-wah guitar and some really slick, tight improv interplay between the bass and drums give the last two minutes of the tune a “Bitches Brew” feel.
We imagine a live ENIAM show is likely rife with similar improvisational treasures. Until then, “Up” is a great way to hear a talented group of musicians doing that funky thing they do. Check it out, below. You can also hear the song on the Deep Indie Chill playlist. Follow the links below to connect with ENIAM and get in the loop on all they have in store, on their way up.
Connect:
ENIAM on the Deep Indie playlists
