Fly Janet’s latest EP, Splash Royale, an entire EP made up of instrumentals. Not the easiest thing to do but let’s give it a go. Hailing from Denver, the band skips the lyrical storytelling and lets their instruments do all the talking. The result is a collection that’s vibrant, engaging, and brimming with potential, though at times it feels like they’re holding something back.
The opener, “50k a Day,” sets the tone with jangling guitars and a breezy rhythm that’s as inviting as the first sip of a cold drink on a hot afternoon. It’s got a catchy groove, but the production feels overly polished, almost at odds with the raw energy this genre thrives on. A little dirt in the mix could have given the track more bite and character, helping it leap out of the speakers instead of comfortably lingering in the background.
“Hang Glider” is where the EP really takes flight. The interplay between the rhythmic bassline and shimmering lead guitar creates a sense of movement, as if the listener is swooping through warm coastal winds. It’s cinematic without being overblown, and its Latin rock inflections add a spicy edge that keeps things fresh. This is Fly Janet at their best: inventive, cohesive, and unapologetically fun.
Things take a quirky turn with “Head of Cow.” While the playful title sets expectations for something eccentric, the track itself feels surprisingly subdued. The melody meanders, and while the band’s technical skill shines through, the song struggles to carve out a distinct identity. It’s not bad by any stretch—it just feels like it’s missing that extra spark that makes the other tracks pop. A bolder arrangement or a more daring sonic experiment might have turned this into a standout moment.
The EP closes with “Pipe Dream,” a slow-burning number that leans heavily into its soft rock influences. The guitar tones are warm and inviting, the percussion understated yet effective, and the Latin-inspired rhythms give it a gentle sway. But while it’s undeniably pretty, it never quite builds to the crescendo it seems to be aiming for. It’s the kind of track you’d expect to hear over a sunset montage—not unwelcome, but not the grand finale the EP deserved.
Fly Janet’s choice to stick with instrumentals pays off in many ways, showcasing their musicianship and ability to tell stories through their instruments alone. However, Splash Royale feels a little too safe at times. Surf rock and Latin rock both thrive on moments of unpredictability and flair, and while there are glimpses of that here, you can’t help but wish they’d fully embrace the weird and wonderful aspects of their sound. Tracks like “Hang Glider” hint at the potential for something much bolder.
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