Tess Parks
Pomegranate
Fuzz Club Records [2024]
“Pomegranate is a stunning blend of timeless psychedelia and raw emotional power.”
Album Overview: Canadian singer-songwriter Tess Parks emerged as a prominent voice in psychedelic rock with her 2013 debut Blood Hot and gained wider recognition through collaborations with Anton Newcombe of Brian Jonestown Massacre. Known for her distinctive blend of rich, atmospheric soundscapes and raw lyricism, Parks solidified her solo identity with And Those Who Were Seen Dancing in 2022. Her latest album, Pomegranate, is an expansive, cinematic journey exploring resilience and beauty in turbulent times. The record feels both personal and grand, marking a significant step forward for Parks in both production and artistry. Her sleek vocals draw listeners in with introspective depth, complementing each track’s vibrant layers. The result is a dreamlike sound—grounded yet lushly psychedelic. Pomegranate is a heartfelt offering that encapsulates themes of survival and emotional healing, delivered through a unique fusion of sounds and textures that feels timeless and showcases Parks’ artistic growth.
Musical Style: The album merges classic psychedelia with modern production, giving it a lush and immersive quality. Layered with synthesizers, ethereal flutes, and vibrant strings, Pomegranate creates a space that feels both grounded and otherworldly. Parks’ vocal performance is captivating, enhancing soundscapes that range from soaring to subtle, making each track an emotional journey. This blend of psychedelic rock and folk elements, with a touch of cinematic flair, offers a timeless yet forward-thinking sound.
Evolution of Sound: While And Those Who Were Seen Dancing embraced a more intimate, raw sound, Pomegranate broadens the canvas, with Meehan’s production elevating Parks’ music to new heights. This album feels expansive, with intricate arrangements and layered instrumentation adding depth and texture to her voice and lyrics. Synthesizers appear prominently for the first time, along with carefully arranged strings and woodwinds, infusing the music with warmth and dynamism that add new dimensions to her established sound.
Artists with Similar Fire: Fans of Mazzy Star, Angel Olsen, and Spiritualized will find much to enjoy on Pomegranate. Like these artists, Parks combines evocative lyricism with a sense of longing and dreaminess, creating a sound that feels both intimate and transportive. The added psychedelic touches may also appeal to listeners of early Fleetwood Mac and recent work by Beach House.
Pivotal Tracks: “Koalas” and “Charlie Potato” stand out with their vivid instrumentals and powerful lyrical reflections, showcasing Parks’ talent for weaving intricate melodies with emotional depth. “Crown Shy” reaches new heights through its string arrangement by drummer Marco Ninni, adding an almost orchestral, uplifting quality that amplifies the track’s emotional strength. “Bagpipe Blues,” the album opener, brings unique textures through its flute layers, while “Running Home to Sing” captures a joyous sense of release, blending synthesizers and vocals that seem to glide effortlessly by.
Lyrical Strength: Parks’ lyrics on Pomegranate are expressive and layered, exploring themes of resilience and personal growth. Her words reflect an intense journey of self-reflection, touched with both pain and hope.
TESS PARKS LINKS
Website | Instagram | Facebook | Bandcamp | Fuzz Club Records
- Tess Parks: Pomegranate [Album Review] - November 6, 2024
- The Cure: Songs Of A Lost World [Album Review] - November 5, 2024
- The Smashing Times: Mrs. Ladyships And The Cleanerhouse Boys [Album Review] - November 1, 2024