Aden Brager, a young songwriter and composer had always dreamed of leaving the American Midwest and exploring the world beyond his familiar surroundings. After a serendipitous meeting and years of exchanging letters, he fell into regular correspondence with a woman from South London, whose tales of the bustling city and its grand New Year's Eve celebrations on the South Bank captivated Aden's imagination. Determined to experience this enchanting event for himself, Aden embarked on a journey across the Atlantic to visit his English pen pal. As he arrived in the vibrant city on New Year's Eve of 1900, the air was filled with the anticipation of a new milennium and the festivities to come. Together with his pen pal, Aden made his way to the South Bank, where the streets were aglow with shimmering lights and the joyful sounds of laughter and music filled the air. Stalls selling sweet treats and trinkets lined the bustling pathways, and the tantalizing scent of roasted chestnuts wafted through the crisp winter night. As midnight approached, the excitement reached a crescendo. The skies above the Thames erupted in a dazzling display of fireworks, painting the night with a kaleidoscope of colors that reflected on the water below. Aden stood in awe, his heart full with the magic of the moment. Amidst the throngs of revelers, Aden felt a sense of connection to this vibrant city and its people. Strangers became friends as they shared in the jubilation of welcoming the new year. For Aden, this night on the South Bank was a revelation—a glimpse into a world far removed from his own, yet filled with the same spirit of camaraderie and celebration. As the clock struck midnight, Aden found himself caught up in a whirl of laughter and dancing, a smile never leaving his face. In that fleeting moment, surrounded by the lights and laughter of London's grand New Year's Eve celebration, Aden Brager knew that this enchanting night would forever hold a special place in his heart.

Vocals and orchestration: Michael Johnson
Orchestra: The Reclinerland Symphony Orchestra

Recorded in 2023 to 2024 at Reclinerland HQ in Paris, France. Mixed and mastered by Michael Johnson and Jarkko Heiniö.