The Enthusiasts

The Enthusiasts are the best Skagit County band that you’ve most likely never heard of. The core of the band are siblings Sommer Velin-Carter and Andrew Velin. Born and raised in Orange County, CA they were involved in music through their church where they started their first band, “Level”, a Christian based group. A few years later, their writing was reflecting folk artists and song writers such as Bob Dylan and Nancy Griffith. Fast forward to a little more than a decade later to find the siblings living in Anacortes. Sommer and Andrew promptly took up where they left off musically forming The Enthusiasts. Bass player Doug Cassidy and drummer Robert Shapanus, both with the Anacortes band “The Mosstones”, were asked to join. Shortly after friend, Mariah Barrett, also joined on accordion and keyboards. The band was rounded out with a mandolin player who just happens to be Sommer’s husband, Rob. The Enthusiasts are Americana, Folk, Gypsy and Roots with a Rock & Roll edge.