Parallels - XII

While searching the web for good new indie-goth and indie-synthpop releases i stumbled upon this jewel. Most synthpop lovers will remember the Norwegian act Echo Image, which released their only album 'Compuphonic' in 2001 with very good but a bit campy synthpop. Paralles operates in the same field. Very poppy 80's synthpop, with a extremely good sense for songwriting.

The band is formed by ex Crystal Castles drummer Cameron Findlay, though he is not in the band anymore. He teamed up with vocalist Holly Dodson and with two new members Nick Dodson and Artem Galperini this is now the current line up.

'XII' is their third offering after a EP and a first album. This album delivers very high quality synthpop on a very poppy note. Some songs like "The hands that rule the world" have a hint of Depeche Mode in them, and in general the mood reflects that of the great 80's synthpop acts like The Human League, Orchestral Manouvers in the Dark and Yazoo. The excellent and modern production, prevents the release from sounding outdated so this should attract listeners from all ages who are into good quality synthpop. All songs are potential hits and is on par and generally even better then their big influences from the 80's.

'XII' hold twelve (hence the title i presume) very well written poptracks with good female vocals. Overal i think the album might be a bit too light for the avarage reader of Brutal Resonance, but for those who love good popmusic written with a feeling for good songs and good vocals, this album is very warmly recommended. It can be purchased digitally for 7 Canadian dollars on their bandcamp, which is only 5 euro's, so thats quite the bargain for an album this good. Oct 15 2012