The Parlotones – A World Next Door to Yours

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If you think The Parlotones’ music is too samey, too light or just too plain silly, then chances are you won’t have your mind changed by A World Next Door to Yours, the anticipated follow-up to Radiocontrolledrobot, the band’s bestselling, SAMA award-winning last album.


You see, A World Next Door to Yours isn’t much of a departure for The Parlotones. They’re still performing their distinctive brand of quirky, light-hearted rock-pop – and songwriter-singer Kahn Morbee continues to make mention of typically non-rock subject matter, like magic, castles, butterflies and ice cream. The Parlotones seem to be in the middle of a quarter-life crisis, so it’s no surprise that a number of tracks on A World Next Door to Yours make pining reference to the carefree innocence of childhood. Track 8 on the album, Play On, even includes children’s vocals.

The Parlotones’ musical influences come through strongly in A World Next Door to Yours. Listen carefully and you’ll pick up Snow Patrol, R.E.M and Coldplay, which is understandable given that The Parlotones have been labelled the South African equivalent of all of these bands. One of the best songs on the album, the more aggressive I’m Only Human is very reminiscent of The Killers, while Track 10, Perfect Place, is especially Beatles-sounding.

There are a handful of other standout tracks on A World Next Door to Yours, which mostly consists of gentle love songs. Giant Mistake is the first hit single off the album and is currently receiving a great deal of radio play. The same success can be expected for I’ll Be There, a sweet ballad that no doubt will feature prominently at many local wedding receptions in the coming months. In terms of up-tempo songs, Track 6, Dance is especially catchy – one of those infectiously happy songs that demands you sing along.


Anyone resistant to The Parlotones should probably stay clear of A World Next Door to Yours. Fans, however, will love the album, and it’s certainly worth checking out if you’re looking for some enjoyable easy-listening rock.

Comments

Lord Spaceman said…
I'm glad you review the album -- I was interested to hear about.

I think The Parlotones is one of the best bands SA has ever produced. They also have rad music videos.
10:53 AM
Pfangirl said…
Hey Lord Spaceman, if you're a fan of the band, you'll enjoy the new album.

I've seen them perform a few times, and they're really great live. Real entertainers! Even with all the eye liner they've started wearing ;)
8:51 AM
Anonymous said…
hi Pfangirl..
Any idea where i'd be able to find the lyrics to the song: I'm only human?

Really appreciate your reply

R
2:54 PM
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