Parcels prepared to deliver a performance infused with soulful melodies and tender vocals at Brudenell Social Club; the room was heavy with fog, the lights cutting through it to create a gentle glow which settled against the stage’s sparkling backdrop.

We were transported back to the seventies, the band sporting double denim and an assortment of haircuts akin for the time, their warm energy glistening against the faces of bobbing figures. Beginning with recognisable songs ‘Older’ and ‘Overnight’, the crowd quickly settled into a synchronised swaying regulated by the tempo of each song that followed.

They laced the set with instrumentals where band members bounced off of one another’s calm states, rocking back and forth with enthusiasm, quipping off each other every chance they could as the audience cheered.

A performance that could only be understood whilst present, the atmosphere was thick with synths as soothing bass notes transported you back to a time where music was dominated by riffs and not production. The standout moment came as the room was plunged back and forth into darkness with a powerful repeating melody, taking Parcels from a level of tuneful comfort to a band with the ability to demand the room. Not usually evident at first listen, but whilst live is glaringly clear.

… the atmosphere was thick with synths as soothing bass notes transported you back to a time where music was dominated by riffs and not production.

‘Overnight’ came at the end of the set, met with a sea of people on shoulders across the audience as the tune filled the room with applause. To finish each member left the stage one by one, slowly losing instruments until only the drummer remained finishing the gig with his flair and skill.

Funky beats reigned supreme in the blissful evening as Parcels – the clear masters of their instruments – played with such severity and yet such softness, in total control of every note that oozed from their amplifiers.

Jessica McCarrick

Header image via Jessica McCarrick