Tropics is Chris Ward, a British producer and multi-instrumentalist in his early 20s who came to Planet Mu’s attention last year. Since that time things have moved on. He’s released two singles and the synth-pop of his early tracks has evolved into a more substantial and personal sound on this, his debut album.

"Parodia Flare" features Chris as a multi-instrumental auteur, playing drums, guitar, and a range of synths and electronic boxes, as well as singing on these songs. Coming from a family where music was always played, it made sense as a musician for Chris to act almost as a conduit by wiring the sounds he enjoyed growing up with into his own creations.

The music he makes weaves vintage sounds, principally the Rhodes keyboard - an instrument most associated with Jazz Fusion - alongside banks of old synths, software and guitars, live drums and electric bass. Tropics is a suitable name for Chris’ music as each song is like a warm analogue jungle of sounds, drawn into focus by his unrefined singing voice and his knack for a lush melody.