The Parcel Song – Flo and Joan

Have you ever waited for a parcel, the delivery of which has been promised between 10am and 2pm? And then waited? And waited? If so, then your experience is shared by many, many people (why didn’t I just say “countless”?), including Flo & Joan.  Here the siblings sing about one such experience.  I felt the line “They said it would come between 12 and 2, but as we know in the delivery world, 12 till 2 is code for your parcel will arrive at any time except for 12 till 2” summed it all up perfectly.  The song goes on with the parcel being tracked by app, and the discovery is made that while once it was getting closer, now it is in Belgium (the Dick Van Dyke reference is particularly amusing at this point). 

Perhaps I am giving too much away, here – so listen to the rest – there are plenty more lyrical treats in store.  I am fairly sure that many of you will find some relief in this shared experience of everyday frustration, as the sisters build it up to its illogically logical end..! I especially like the epic quest nature of the song and the rather deft way a wind machine was used to give full-on Bonnie Tyler Total Eclipse vibes.

Who are these performers, then?  I have to say this is the first time I have come across them, despite the fact they have been performing together professionally for almost ten years. Flo & Joan are a British musical comedy duo made up of sisters Rosie Dempsey (“Flo”) and Nicola Dempsey (“Joan”). They perform clever, original comedy songs that blend sharp wordplay, observational humour and musical talent - often on piano and with tight vocal harmonies. Their comedic stage names come from their grandmother and her sister (who I bet they performed for as children).  If I had to describe what they are like lyrically, I guess I would suggest imagining a world where Victoria Wood could have children with Fascinating Aida with perhaps a little Kirsty MacColl spliced in there for good measure - not to mention a sprinkling of Pam Ayres, perhaps.  They’re astute, sweary, honest – and funny.

Watch The Parcel Song below.  It was filmed at The Royal Court London. There is a full special currently streaming on Sky Max/Now TV starring Flo & Joan so maybe flick over there while you are waiting for your next parcel…