Parcels – “Herefore”
Australia’s underground seems to be ripe with soulful acts as of late. I remember I thought Band To Watch alum Hiatus Kaiyote were an anomaly coming out of Aussieland with their “future soul.” How ignorant of me. But since then I’ve kept an eye out for more Australian takes on American soul sensibilities and there are some gems to be found. C.W. Stoneking was one as of recent, and now the self-described “funk-pop” group Parcels have continued to pique my interest.
On “Herefore,” the Berlin via Australia outfit builds a slick digitally infused funk groove. Super funky synth bass, shimmering high-pitched synth progressions, Wurlitzer piano, subtle percussion, and classic syncopated drums come together exquisitely on this joint. The way the Wurlitzer sustains, warps, and stretches from the more classical piano made my neck do some things I didn’t know it was capable of. Throw in the smooth, melodic, harmonized vocals and the catchy hook, “I’m just here for my girl/Would I kill for? Not her,” and you’ve got an undeniably groovy jam on your hands. Check it out.