Aluna Gets The Party Started on ‘MYCELiUM’ (Album Review)

Aluna Francis is a well-loved and respected name in the U.K. dance and rave scene. Ten years ago, alongside George Reid, they released ‘Body Music‘ which featured absolute bops like ‘You Know You Like It‘, ‘Best Be Believing‘, and ‘Attracting Flies‘. Her sweet vocals alongside the synth-pop production were a match made in heaven and made them stars.

They would go on to have further success, collaborating with the likes of Shakka and Popcaan. Also, who can forget the festival anthem ‘White Noise‘ with Disclosure? But in 2020, Aluna went solo, releasing her debut record ‘Renaissance‘. Now, she is back with the sophomore release. While that record explored almost every genre possible, this is a more focused and housey LP. It is one banger after another and will get you on your feet.

Through the lyrics, the album’s interludes, and its title, the theme is clear. This party celebrates growth as a human and thriving in your own space. It’s full to the brim with collaborators, but all do their job. Whether hitting you with big beats or velvety vocals, no one is really missing here.

‘Running Blind‘ hits you with a thumping beat courtesy of Tchami alongside Aluna. Meanwhile, Kareen Lomax and Francis sound fantastic together. The bridge, in particular, is the perfect sing-along material, lifting you to a natural high. The track has festival season written all over it. MNEK, Pablo Vittar, and Eden Prince do exactly what it says on the tin with ‘Oh The Glamour‘. It’s fun, fabulous, and has just the right amount of 90s nostalgia feels.

She’s also an advocate for bringing through female talent and does that here. TSHA is instrumental on the chilled-breakaway anthem ‘Killing Me‘ and Jayda G kills it vocally and production-wise with ‘Mine O’ Mine‘. It’s a real showing of Black Female talent, which again harks back to the 90s. The likes of Robin S and Janice Robinson were stars then, and the girls brought through here are the stars of tomorrow and beyond.

From funky deep house vibes on Route 94 crossover ‘Underwater‘ to MK’s late-night rave bop ‘Kiss It Better‘, this album is packed with absolute bangers. Some tracks don’t go as hard as others. But, they still have my head bobbing, so are still a vibe.

Aluna has chosen everything on this LP perfectly. It feels concise, consistent, and it’s just non-stop good times. The features are on point and Francis herself is as vocally unique and talented as ever. There is very little wrong here, and while this doesn’t break any boundaries, it certainly perfects them. This is an absolute blast and sure to have people happy and dancing all summer long and beyond.

Star Rating: 4.25/5

Aluna is on Instagram, Twitter, and TikTok.