Lady Parasyte - Abandoned Places

It's been a busy two years for Chicago natives Lady Parasyte. Last year saw the release of their 'Sirens' EP, and now in 2010 we have the release of their LP, 'Abandoned Places'. Between the two releases the group has undergone some serious evolution - they've undergone a few line-up changes, inked a record deal with MachineKunt, and undergone somewhat of a style change, dropping many electronic elements for more of a electro rock sound.

Unfortunately, the initial openers come across as scant. The first three tracks - 'Playing Parasite', 'Satisfied' and 'Prick' - may not have been the wisest decision. There are some inherent weaknesses: thin production that just doesn't cut it with heavy guitars; unimaginative and (dare I say it) boring songs; the occasional metal-styled vocal that just seems out of place.

Kimberly K's clean vocals also seem a little off in places, delivered in a breathy monotone or almost spoken word style. However, don't let this deter you - a few tracks does not an album make. Things pick up with the rockish catchiness of 'Trapdoor' and the title track 'Abandoned Places'; a slower track with enough intricate synthwork to remind of older releases from The Birthday Massacre.

As strange as it may seem, my standout track can be found at the very end of the album with the track 'Bliss', an upbeat track with some sharp synths that drive a strong chorus. I've given this album several listens and, all in all, I'm still finding it hard to find more memorable moments.

Emilie Autumn predicted that Lady Parasyte is a project with potential for full stardom - however, this album feels like a minor stepping stone rather than a huge leap forward. Sep 10 2010