Prog Radio | Album Review | ''Exodus'' by Parallels

Album Review

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Stars

Exodus

Parallels

828

Sweden

In their debut album "Exodus," the Swedish progressive rock band Parallels makes a compelling entrance into the prog music scene. Formed in 2023, this trio, consisting of Ulrik Arturén (lead vocals, bass), Anders Börjesson (guitars, vocals), and Torbjörn Carlsson (keyboards, programming), brings a fresh wave of melodic crossover prog to the table. With a playing time of 67 minutes spread across 12 songs, "Exodus" is an evocative journey woven into music.

The concept behind "Exodus" is as profound as its sound is melodic. Tackling the grim realities of war, the album narrates the heart-wrenching story of a young couple torn apart by conflict. Lyrics such as "If you don't submit, they offer you the sword" paint a vivid picture of their ordeal, highlighting the band's ability to balance serious thematic content with their harmonious sound. This narrative backbone gives the album a solid structure, allowing listeners to engage not just with the music, but with the story it tells.

The blend of haunting vocals, intricate guitar work, and atmospheric keyboards creates a soundscape that is both expansive and immersive. For just a trio, these musicians have a lot going on.

Musically, "Exodus" stands out for its craftsmanship. The band's melodic approach to the progressive rock genre ensures that the album is accessible without compromising on complexity. The blend of haunting vocals, intricate guitar work, and atmospheric keyboards creates a soundscape that is both expansive and immersive. For just a trio, these musicians have a lot going on. Parallels demonstrate a keen understanding of dynamics, expertly weaving quiet, introspective moments with powerful, emotive peaks.

The production quality of the album matches the high standard set by its musical content. Each track is meticulously crafted, with clear, crisp sound that allows each instrument's character to shine through. This attention to detail ensures that the listener's experience is as immersive as the story being told.

For fans of progressive rock, especially those who lean towards the melodic and accessible side of the spectrum, "Exodus" is an essential addition to your playlist. Tune in to Prog Radio to catch tracks from this excellent album in our New Music rotation. Join us next week on "What's New Proggy Cats" for a deeper dive into this remarkable debut. Parallels have not just arrived; they've arrived with a message, wrapped in layers of beautifully composed music. Don't miss it.

5 Stars!