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When Dublin band Revile parted ways with its singer in early 2006 it could have called it quits, but instead its members shoved their shoulders back, brushed themselves off, adopted the name Parhelia and faced the future with a new outlook. Having done away with vocals altogether, the band has sought to travel down the instrumental/post-rock path. Settling in alongside Red Sparowes, God Is An Astronaut and to a lesser extent Isis, the group is already off to a good start.
Parhelia takes its name from a natural phenomenon where sunlight is refracted on ice crystals in clouds, creating balls of light. Its aptly titled EP "First Light" is an atmospheric, relaxing trip that has the ability to conjure soothing memories while simultaneously brushing against closed wounds in your heart. It is the perfect soundscape for wandering in the cold and rain when you want to be alone. The hushed melodies of "A Second Changes Everything" cruise gently along, while "Cloudbreak" evokes a feeling of unsure comfort. If you ever drove or walked all night in an attempt to escape heartache and found yourself at dawn looking out over the sea (be it the ocean or a valley full of street lights), then you’re already familiar with these sounds. They are the soundtrack that was playing in your head at the time.
The rarely hopeful Parhelia focuses more on bringing to the fore feelings of insecurity and disquiet. It's not going to force itself on you or try to solve your problems, but it ironically might make things seem a little easier. "Ebb/Flow" has beautiful passages that can be heard as mildly optimistic, as does the melting, cherubic "Waves Turn." Delicate and touching, it’s daybreak peeking over the horizon and catching your eye, making you feel like everything might just be alright while causing the shadow of a smile to mark your face.
» parheliaband.com
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