PARALLEL OR NINETY DEGREES
"A Can Of Worms"
(Progrock Records)

Whenever I come upon a band that I haven't heard of or read about previously I feel as if I've been living in a cocoon. When I first heard Parallel Or Ninety Degrees David Bowie circa Ziggy Stardust popped up as a reference point. The more I listened to this compilation the more I came to think of the Swedish band Oxiplegatz (formed by Alf of Grotesque fame). Both bands have the same spacey feeling to their music and while not quite operating in the same sphere (prog rock vs. metal) there are more common points than there are differences for you to check out both bands if you like your music progressive. As Parallel was a new acquaintance I had no expectations whatsoever. Having been a blank slate I can now proudly say that I'm a fan of the band. From what I understand Parallel made it quite big when they were the most active. This compilation (with tracks from all the albums they've released) might mean some sort or revival for the band and I for one wish them all the best.

-Anders Ekdahl