Review: Anavae - Parallel Dimensions EP

The EP starts off with “Parallel Hang Man”, a song which right away brings to mind VersaEmerge – a good thing, in my opinion. Anavae have always had the ability to create beautiful rock and electronic music, and this song is just the beginning of an elctro-journey. “Parallel Hang Man” is softer than it’s original version, “Hang Man”, and shows that the duo has the ability to transform their music in ways most can’t. The electronics allow the lyrics to hold their own and vocalist Becca Need-Menear’s voice is something you can easily get lost in. In summary, “Parallel Hang Man” is an excellent way to start off the EP.
“Parallel Aeon” is the second track on the EP and is one of absolute beauty - there is honestly no other word I can use to describe it. Need-Menear’s vocals are simple divine and the piano brings a pop-esque sound that seems to conform to her voice perfectly. The best song on the EP, it’s in no competition with Dimensions’ version. Both are in separate worlds, with the original geared more toward the rock side of the spectrum and this one dropping all that makes it so. “Parallel Aeon” has set the standards high and I can guarantee other electronic acts are going to have trouble topping it.
“Dream Catcher (Acoustic)” is the first of two acoustic tracks on the EP. Carrying with it a sound that is reminiscent of Paramore, it channel’s a side of Anavae not normally seen. The duo have a way of creating beautiful acoustic music and it’s a shame they don’t perform more of their songs this way. The acoustics allow for Need-Menear’s voice to shine through and allow the listener to hear the power not just in her voice, but in the lyrics as well.
The final track on the EP is “Bring Me Down (Acoustic)”, a song that brings an all-new beauty to the version seen on Dimensions. As with “Dream Catcher (Acoustic)”, Need-Menear’s voice shines and her ability to hit those high notes is nothing short of impressive - this girl has talent, that’s for sure. The guitar adds a delicateness not seen before and, as a result, the lyrics hold their own and become the center piece of a song that wraps up Parallel Dimensions perfectly.
Overall, I applaud Anavae for this release. I honestly can’t say enough times how beautiful each and every song is. This duo has always had the ability to make something unique with their music and the idea they had to re-work old songs into something new is nothing short of ingenious. After listening to Parallel Dimensions, all I can think about is having them do this to all their songs. It’s definitely the release to beat and everyone needs to give it a listen.
Download: Parallel Aeon
4.5/5
By Clare Fitzgerald
