Rock / Indie Recommendations June 2009

Review: Parallels are a duo form Toronto, Canada that are rewriting modern takes on new wave and disco sounds. This release on Thisisnotanexit Records sees a re-recorded version of their single from last year added to a comprehensive remix package of the same tune.

The new album version of "Ultralight" manages to assign itself to an authentically retro sound without ever descending into cheap imitations or parody. It is a lavishly electronic track, driven by Italo arpeggios and layers of synth bass. The strong vocal performance from Holly Dodson adds yet more power to this shinning, retro stomper. A sure fire hit for any retro or disco lover, this track will also capture the imagination of any newbies who hear it on the dancefloor.

Fellow synth-obsessed pop proprietor, The Dark Esquire offers the first remix of "Ulralight." His inimitable deep, synthetic tastes take on the original offers a new direction from the album version. A fine to start the remix package before Detachment's futuristic, stripped down version takes hold. Missing the vocal, this ominous and brooding interpretation throbs along with some heavy bass. Club Silencio's dub infused disco remix closes the EP in style. Huge chords follow a trippy atmosphere in the massive final moments of the mix. Having built up to this moment throughout the whole EP, this mix does a fantastic job of finishing off the release with the kind of shinning, dancefloor disco that its previous tracks deserve.