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It took two years and scrapping a completed album along the way, but Meanjin-based Fonz Whaler (real name Tom Kakanis) is releasing The Tropical Fruit Society LP. Kakanis, who wrote, recorded and produced the album, has made, in his own words, a “dumb- ass tropical funk” record inspired as much by Tyler, the Creator as it is by soul, reggae and jazz. “The way Tyler mixed so many things together and made something that felt more like a piece of cinema was fascinating to me. My previous album was so serious, I wanted to make something fun, dumb, and weird. This record was me exploring whatever strange sounds and genres I was interested in”. A self described “fun” album, this is Kakanis’ most consummate work to date, with songs flowing with grace. At a brisk 27 minutes it’s over before you’re really acquainted, daring you to have a second serve, ideally by a Sunshine Coast beach or on a road trip.