Late 1970s and 1980s influences are alive and well in the upcoming release of Parallels by Total Slacker, slated for release on August 19 via ONErpm/Verge Records. The Brooklyn, New York three-piece flaunts layers of psychedelic shoegaze-style instrumentals with an ignited garage band energy.
Chorus-laden guitars paired with cloudy vocals throughout verses in tracks such as “Turn On the Lights” evoke elements of Blue Oyster Cult and The Smiths while crunchy rhythms and driving drum beats satisfy the hunger for 1990s to early 2000s emo and alternative rock to the likes of The Jealous Sound and the younger years of the Foo Fighters.
“Olympus Hills,” which is the band’s most recent single from Parallels, is an irresistable surfside soundtrack with impressive and ambient riffs as well as a body-swaying hook. If each song was a hallucinogenic trip, then this would be the best kind.
What tends to be most admirable about Parallels is the cohesiveness that Total Slacker has demonstrated– from subject matter, to dynamics and movement, to song order, and more. It proves itself to be a well-rounded big league competitor in the realm of modern alternative rock while inserting a healthy dose of raw structure and primal indie roots.
Photo via Warszawa
Total Slacker possesses a rare authenticity in this digital music age through honest guitars, pithy percussion, subtle yet seductive synths, and voracious stylings. Parallels is sure to be on your radar in the coming months.
Rating: 4/5
