"Watermark" is the second studio album by Irish singer-songwriter and musician, Enya. Released on 19 September 1988 by Warner Music internationally and by Geffen Records in the United States, it marked a significant departure from her previous album, establishing her unique ethereal sound and fully leveraging a multitude of layered vocals for most of the tracks.
Produced by Nicky Ryan and lyrically written by Roma Ryan, "Watermark" features music styles that encompass folk, new age, classical and pop. It catapulted Enya to international fame, especially with the successful lead single "Orinoco Flow." This hit single topped the UK Singles Chart for three weeks and has since been covered by various artists globally.
The album itself was both a commercial and critical success. It peaked at No. 5 on the UK Albums Chart, No. 25 on the US Billboard 200, and reached the Top 10 in nine countries. By 1996, it had sold 1.2 million copies in the UK and 4 million in the US.
The creating process of "Watermark" involved Enya recording her voice and multiple instruments in multitrack, looking to capture a sense of atmosphere and mood while maintaining a thematic consistency across the tracks. An example of this compositional complexity is the track titled "Cursum Perficio," which draws on a rich choral tradition and features impactful heartfelt lyrics.
"Watermark" was later reissued in 2009 as a Japanese mini-LP version, maintaining its global appeal and influence. This album is noted as pivotal in the creation and rise of the new-age music genre. It is truly a testament to Enya's range and talent as an artist.
Overall, the beauty and complexity of "Watermark" has brought Enya recognition and acclaim, cementing her in the ranks of history's most cherished musicians.
