Face In The Picture by Picture Parlour might be one of the best EPs of the year, and it’s a huge new favourite of mine! Review.
FACE IN THE PICTURE – PICTURE PARLOUR
Lights are flashing around the mirror. The reflection it displays isn’t one, but a photo. And it’s alive. As soon as she claps her hand, we’re sucked into a new world, both fairy-like and chaotic. Faeries and demons are showing up on Face In The Picture through its grand orchestral cabaret-rock atmosphere. Picture Parlour hits hard with the opening of their EP, Face In The Picture. Is it up to their reputation, built on a couple of riffs-heavy and strongheaded singles? Yes, and much more than that! With Katherine Parlour on the vocals and guitar, Ella Risi on the guitar, Sian Lynch on the bass, and Michael Nash on the drums, the Mancunian band was formed in 2021, and this EP is only the beginning of their story. And with such a savoir-faire, what a start!
Dial Up goes on with a grungier tone, with more bite. The orchestral lyricism is fading here to leave more space for the dirty textures of their instruments. Then, the atmosphere is heavy, worrisome and yet comfortable and warm. The cabaret in which it’s all set shapeshifts and becomes sticky. And even more so when Ronnie chimes in. Sexy and powerful, it is easy to lose your mind with it. They do it again with Moon Tonic, able to get us to dance all night long. And preferably until The Witching Hour.
The band worked with Macks Faulkon and Catherine Marks on the production, and they’re all bangers. The overall aspect of the record is sincere, raw and really well-thought-of. That it became one of my new favourite is no surprise. From what I can hear there, I’m betting that their next releases will be as strong and subtle. Picture Parlour is only starting to make its place in the music industry, and Face In The Picture is a solid foundation for it! Let’s keep a very close eye on their next projects!
