Album Review: A Boy's Adventure Tale - Songs Of A-ha by Jonteknik Featuring Martyn Bailey
If you’re into synth-pop that feels like a warm hug from an old Casio keyboard, A Boy’s Adventure Tale is the album for you. Released in 2010 by UK-based producer Jon Russell under his label jonteknikmusic, this record is basically a love letter to all things electronic and nostalgic. And oh yeah, it features vocals from Martyn Bailey, who brings just enough swagger to make these covers feel fresh but still familiar.
Let’s get one thing straight—this isn’t your dad’s A-ha (well, unless your dad was really into Euro-pop). What Jonteknik has done here is take some of A-ha’s most iconic tracks and give them a shiny new coat of digital paint. The result? Something that sounds like what might happen if Depeche Mode and Kraftwerk got together to jam after watching "Take On Me" on repeat.
Now, I gotta call out two tracks that stuck with me because they’re just chef’s kiss. First up, there’s “Stay On These Roads.” It’s moody, brooding, and kinda feels like driving through a neon-lit city at midnight while questioning all your life choices. But hey, isn’t that what great music’s supposed to do? Bailey’s voice slides over the synths like butter on toast, and the layered beats are so hypnotic you’ll forget you’re listening to a cover. Honestly, it’s better than therapy.
Then we’ve got “(Seemingly) Nonstop July,” which is pure summer-in-a-song vibes. This track hits different—it’s upbeat without being obnoxious, and the melody worms its way into your brain faster than you can say “retro futurism.” There’s something about the bouncy bassline and shimmering keys that screams ‘90s rave meets beach party. You’ll wanna grab a cocktail and dance awkwardly in your living room to this one. Trust me, no judgment here.
What’s wild about this whole project is how Russell manages to pay homage to A-ha without losing his own identity. Like, sure, he borrows their blueprint, but he builds something entirely unique. It’s like when someone takes your favorite recipe and adds a secret ingredient—you’re not mad; you’re intrigued.
In the end, A Boy’s Adventure Tale reminds us why synth-pop will never truly die. Sure, it’s retro as heck, but it’s also timeless in a weird, glitchy sort of way. Listening to this album feels like rediscovering an old mixtape you forgot you made. So crank it up, let those synths wash over you, and remember: even in 2010, the sun always shone on T.V.—and now it shines on Spotify too. Who knew nostalgia could sound this good?
