It’s not that I don’t like The Parallels, they just come across as a band without a center. Both songs seem to be starting and ending in the middle. I think I get it: mid-period, tambouriney Elvis Costello through a mellowish Lilac Time vibe. It’s terribly pleasant, but, for me, doesn’t crackle and pull my arm to follow it along, or have incredible hooks or barbs, like thorns on a vine, where you can pick at the little scab from it penetrating your skin. I like my power pop seductions with a bit more sweat and directness. Incredibly competent, though.
–todd (La-Ti-Da, lattidarecords.com)