Album Review: Adventure Day - Flor Bromley

Adventure Day is the latest album from the very talented Flor Bromley; a tremendous piece of work, which is as easy on the ear as it is to dance to. Kicking off with the aptly titled "Wake Up", here the morning ritual is described in some detail, resonating with a cool salsa vibe encouraging the lucky listener to wake up in 'time to dance'. This is fun, uptempo music at its absolute best, guaranteed to get the kids up and moving in the morning. Maybe a slice of "Kooks" for the modern age if there are any Bowie fans out there who can relate to the comparison.

"Bully" continues with the funky vibe, and despite the somewhat dark subject matter, the song begins with a dreamy wistful vocal expressing wholehearted excitement at the prospect of starting school. As the song progresses the song reveals itself to be a slightly uncomfortable look into the psychology of a bully. The chant 'why are you so mean' is expressed with considerable venom, but the song manages to end on a positive where in the final analysis despite everything 'I like you and I like me'.

"Food" treats the listener to this culinary delightful melody, where love of food is celebrated with tremendous gusto. All our favourite treats are celebrated here, along with the healthy stuff, including salad and fruit which are also included on the menu. The bass bobs up and down serenading this slightly tongue in cheek celebration of all the 'food in my belly', which we all love. The song also features an approiriate twist at the end, where we are reminded to tidy up after ourselves, because we shouldn't leave a mess, however much we all 'like food'.

"Playtime" introduces a brass section, and features imaginative lyrics that explore every opportunity to play, and in particular how everyday objects can be so much fun when it's playtime. Another lively ditty, that bounces along in true salsa style. 'There are no limits here', we can literally be anything through the power of imagination whether that includes a pirate or a princess, anything goes. Perhaps most importantly the song reminds the listener, never to underestimate the power of play in learning.

"No Nap Today" has a great vibe, and perhaps a surprisingly rocky feel, which reminded me a little of the Pixies despite the lyrical content. The mesmerising guitar lick towards the end of the song further emphasises the point. The familiar resistance to taking a nap is further emphasised in the music where the drums seem to represent the struggle going on during this draining ritual. However nonchalant the song title sounds, I'm sure many parents out there are keenly aware that it is no easy feat getting children to sleep

Who doesn't enjoy a "Nature Walk"? Here a whistling melody and a gentle vibe provides the perfect backdrop to celebrate the sight of the birds 'flying high in the sky'. The song accompanies the listener on a walk through the woods, where 'butterflies come around in July'. You get the real sense listening to this track that you are enjoying the walk alongside the artist, where the lyrical detail enables the listener to clearly picture 'stepping on the leaves' which makes 'a funny crunching sound', or, feel the sun on your face 'so warm to embrace'.

"Bubble Bath' has more of a ska feel, where the song bounces along almost in celebration of the joy of a bubble bath, where fun is the order of the day. It's not the easiest task for parents to get their children to take a bath, maybe this song should be played every evening just before bed time. The drums really cut through, as does the jabbing keyboard which delivers in intensity throughout. The song finishes with a contribution from none other than Uncle Jumbo, who delivers in fine rap style, adding further exuberance to the subject matter.

Last but by no means least "Dreamland" is for me the best track on the album. A haunting atmospheric song, perfect for bedtime where soothing strings, melodic piano and vocal warmth combine in this musical masterpiece which delights and enraptures in turn. Here, the artist really hits top form where melody meets descriptive verse in a perfect match, 'where dreams will be flying through the sky', and 'where nothing can go wrong'. An optimistic melancholy finale which delights and uplifts throughout. 

All in all a superb piece of work from a fascinating artist who manages to engage the listener through the combination of lyrical depth, melodic magic, and exotic rhythm. Whether it's through didactic description or melancholy reflection, all the bases are covered here, and wrapped up in a delightful production. 

Flor Bromley - wake up it's a beautiful day.