florence adooni: a.o.e.i.u.
Francisco Espregueira
Florence Adooni highly awaited debut album, A.O.E.I.U. (An Ordinary Exercise In Unity) via Philophon Records, is a lively take on Ghanaian highlife, given a contemporary, otherworldly spin. With Max Weissenfeldt handling production duties, the ensmble led by Adooni draws a line between the deep-rooted Ghanian Fra Fra culture and today's music. The title, a direct plea for everyday connection, stresses Adooni's message of togetherness, a feeling that hits home in 2025. From the catchy "Mam Pe'ela Su'ure" to the playful "Uh-Ah Song," sparked by a moment with her child, Adooni's voice leads the way, not just working with tradition, but shaping it anew.
Adooni's A.O.E.I.U. travels through time and sound, with old-school highlife textures meeting contemporary African themes. "Otoma Da Naba" shows this, mixing live sounds with the Roland TB-303 bass synth, making for a surprising and engaging listen. The strong track "Vocalize My Luv" moves with carnival-like African dance rhythms and a deep bass, showing off Adooni's strong vocals and the album's range. This mix of tight craft and loose feel, of old and new, makes A.O.E.I.U. a great first outing, hinting at what's next for this globallly recognized Fra Fra artist. Available on vinyl.