Flying Raccoon Suit’s “Moonflower” Blooms in All Directions

Let me just start by saying this: Moonflower hit me in the chest. This album is everything I didn’t know I needed right now—genre-bending, emotionally honest, and ska-driven without being defined by ska alone. Flying Raccoon Suit pulls off an incredible balancing act, delivering deep emotional resonance wrapped in unpredictable and exhilarating arrangements.

What makes Moonflower so special is its ability to move effortlessly between genres while keeping ska at its core. You’ll hear metalcore screams, pop punk melodies, alternative rock textures, jazzy flair, and, of course, that brass section that absolutely cooks. It’s a wild ride, but it never feels forced. The transitions are smooth, and the album flows like a well-curated mix—every track placed with intention.

Vocally, this album is a powerhouse. Jessica brings a commanding presence that’s impossible to ignore, while Andrew, Derek, Clay, Guillermo, Nevin, and Brandon all add layers with screaming, harmonies, instrumentation, and call-and-response moments. The lyrics touch on everything from anxiety, depression, and insecurities to breakups, communication issues, and taking risks. There’s a vulnerability here that feels honest and raw without being overly dramatic. It hits especially hard if you’ve been navigating any of those feelings yourself.

Standout moments include the opening swing of “Vidalia” that sets the tone beautifully, the irresistible ska bounce of “Longshot,” the genre chaos and emotion of “Long in the Tooth,” and the thoughtful echo of themes in tracks like “Sunflower” and “Dyad.” Even songs that aren’t immediate favorites serve a purpose, contributing to the emotional arc of the album.

The chemistry between this group of musicians is undeniable. Each member brings their own flavor and strength to the mix—whether it’s the tight rhythm section, soaring brass, dynamic guitar work, or emotionally driven vocals, there’s a sense that this band deeply understands and trusts each other. Their ability to genre-bend without ever losing cohesion speaks to that unity. You can tell they love making music together, and that energy moves through every note.

And that’s what Moonflower does best—it moves. Not just your body, but your mind and your emotions. It asks you to feel something, to examine something, to dance and to think.

For me, it’s a 5/5. Whatever your rating system, this album deserves your time and attention.

Thanks for reading. Let me know what you think—and if you connected with this one like I did.

Let’s keep skankin’ forward. If you’ve listened to Moonflower, drop a comment and tell me your favorite track and why—it really helps start a conversation. And if you’re enjoying the blog, hit that like and subscribe—more to come soon.