Nick Helgesen, the creative force behind Scrimshaw Porn, closes 2024 with Eleonore, a single that marks a poignant evolution in his boundary-pushing sound. Known for his introspective storytelling and the dreamlike fusion of indie-pop and electronica, Helgesen’s latest offering weaves a tale of longing and memory inspired by a deeply moving piece of World War I history—a chestnut leaf engraved by a French soldier with the name of his daughter, Eléonore.
This emotional narrative becomes the heart of Eleonore, a track that not only pays tribute to this history but also ties it to Helgesen’s own fleeting encounter with a mysterious woman outside one of his shows.
The track opens with a delicate piano line, instantly setting the tone for Scrimshaw Porn’s signature ethereal sound. Layered with ambient electronica and soft, pulsing synths, the arrangement creates a hauntingly atmospheric backdrop. Helgesen’s haunting vocals enter gently, blending seamlessly with the production’s evolving textures. The song builds with subtle intensity, balancing nostalgia with modern sensibilities, evoking echoes of ’80s instrumentation but with a fresh, forward-thinking edge.
Eleonore moves through moments of melancholic introspection before swelling into euphoric bursts, creating a listening experience that is both emotionally charged and intellectually engaging. The track’s ability to oscillate between sadness and joy mirrors the duality of the story it tells—a longing for connection, tied to both personal and historical narratives.
With a string of successes behind him, including the critically acclaimed Edgar Allan, the September Surf EP, and the worldwide radio success of Good Girl, Nick Helgesen continues to prove why Scrimshaw Porn is a project to watch. Eleonore not only cements his place in the indie and dream pop scene but also showcases his extraordinary ability to craft deeply personal stories that resonate universally.
