South Wales’ PARCS draw inspiration from the dreamy tones of ’80s synth pop combined with the modern production style and techniques used in electronic music. Named after binge-watching US sitcom Parks & Recreation together, and cementing their current line up in 2023, founding band members Elly Sinnett (vocals) and Joe Coote (bass) were eventually joined by Liam Tucker (guitar) and Kristy Cromwell (backing vox, live bass) after bonding over a shared love of 80s music. PARCS have released two extended plays to date and release their third `Sleepless` this month which explores themes of the mental health struggles often found in a life of chronic pain, whilst still encapsulating their signature hopeful, nu-disco-driven sound.
This four tracker opens with `Pull/Push` whereas a push-pull relationship usually involves alternating between drawing a partner close and then pushing them away, leading to emotional turbulence, here it`s more like one pushing and the other pulling but the pusher recognising the need to change. It’s all set against a tender dreamy bass and synth laden backing. Boundaries or limits which should not be crossed are hinted at in `Red Lines` another quite illusory listen but with a slightly more robust texture and some sweet backing harmonies.
`Sleepless` has a kind of restlessness about it which is mirrored in the musical accompaniment. The final offering here is `Fever` a rhythmic rolling synth based submission that appears to reflect an almost unhealthy obsession with a partner but maybe it`s more romanticised than real.
The `Sleepless` EP is a gentle tender almost soulful retro offering where you can drift off in thoughts and reflections of your own for a few minutes which is no bad thing these days.
Rating 8/10
