To write an accurate review I think you owe the artist a fair stab and a genuine period to listen to their given product. The sequence of events therefore ensued, having written the review for Hubi Meisel’s “Kailash” which is a good if labouring album, I decided to clear the head with a proper “no-brainer”, a tune that just has no relation to what you’ve heard over the last few days and gives the brain a chance to reset the levels and return a state of clarity (if not grinning like a twat), tonight’s meaty morsel turned out to be Saxon’s seminal “Wheels Of Steel”, twat possibly, grinning definitely.  

With thanks to the aural cleansing equivalent of a vindaloo, I dug back to this album from Section A, a CD that I’ve heard over the last few days and keep slipping back to in an almost familiar sense. Much like the Saxon classic or “Back In Black”, this is an instant grab, ballsy riffs with a catchy take on genuine melody. Similar in feel to the soon-to-be classic “Tattooed Heart” by Evidence One, “Parallel Lives” has the potential to be an absolute benchmark of the genre. Grinding riffs with sublime solo sequences, combined with vocal power and a metronomic, gut wrenching bass and drum section. And the combined ability to write some really good tunes, being able to switch between a heavy grind to a lighter, multi-layered vocal section gives the band a range of options. “Awakening” demonstrates a reflective feel, whilst opener “Hunted” shows a bit of fire.  

As this is a progressive piece, there’s a concept, the story of William a guy who transcends parallel universes whilst dreaming. In honesty this is a thread, it’s useful to know what the story is about, but the songs are so ultimately accessible that they also stand on their individual merit. Which broadens the appeal.  Conclusion? Well written, well played, well-produced collection that form the basis of a story if you want and some quality music if you don’t.

Let us know your views on 'Parallel Lives'

Track List

Hunted
The Gift
Awakening
Dark Alliance
Moment Of Truth
Hoping For A Miracle
Changing The Past
Beginning Of The End

Line Up

Andy Engberg - Vocals
Torben Enevoldsen - Guitars/Keyboards
Johan Koleberg - Drums
Mats Olausson - Keyboards Pontus Egberg - Bass