Following the energetic rocker “Snow Crocs,” Virginia-based act Flemish in the North show their second single as embracing of a more contemplative, folk-minded sound. A narratively descriptive first half stirs amidst the understated guitar and crisp vocals, building into a soaring second half with enduring appeal.
“Jonathan Ames” begins with an acoustical backing and lyrics reflecting a traversal through New York, through a “dive bar after dark,” and a special sort of connection. The “Brooklyn,” expansion enamors with the piano-laden glistening and percussive addition, kickstarting a more expansive second half. The literary-inspired setting/themes and ardent folk-driven escalation makes for another success from the project, who are quickly showcasing their eclectic stylistic reach.
The duo of Christopher Davis and Everett B. DeLuca III elaborate on the track:
“”Jonathan Ames” is not particularly rooted in reality, or anything that’s happened to anyone in the band; it treads on a story based on the plot of “The Extra Man,” a novel written by Jonathan Ames. However, the narrator of the song replaces the main character of the book, and Jonathan Ames himself replaces the main character’s opposite in the story. Aside from this literary reference, the song touches upon themes of self-acceptance, co-dependency, and self-expression.”