Germany’s Para Lia returns with a powerful, critical statement in ‘Neverland’ which rocks and simultaneously resonates. This is no escapist fantasy; it’s a rich, guitar driven psychedelic rock tour into the sonic intensity and social commentary; the band has solidified its place as a major force in today’s German scene.
As early as the first couple seconds, “Neverland” is powerful. From the start the listener is hit with huge, roaring guitars and a frantic, driving drumbeat which crash over the listener, dark and immersive. A hazy psychedelic rock aesthetic underlies the track, with swirling textures that feature in the sound along with an unmistakable, almost torch like guitar tone. Vocals are superlative, their delivery with an arresting combination of urgency and theatrics, inaudibly locking into place with the densest of sounds, perfectly suited to the visceral impact of a live performance setting. It’s all deeply atmospheric, lingering long after that final chord fades.
Bearing the weight of sheer sonic heft, “Neverland” also features some substantial thematic heft. A wake up song inspired by the spirit of bands like the Grateful Dead but directed through modern, critical means. The handling of language facilities a confrontation with the unsettling misuse of language in public discourse, laments the separation between the governed and their rulers and asks a blunt question pertaining to the gradual loss of the individual in society. It’s music with a purpose, unsettling, poetic and in no hurry to offer easy comfort.
You can see the workmanship. With backing vocals from Cindy Methner and evocative Mellotron effects from Dennis Grund, guitars (René Methner and Remo Ender), foundational bass (Michael Schlottke) and dynamic drums (Emanuel Mukow) all hold their own in a complicated and rewarding listen. A product of the band and mastered/mixed at Lakesidestudio Berlin, the production expresses the raw power and the intricate layers that make their sound.
Beyond a great rock song “Neverland” is a critical trip through our turbulent times. Para Lia manages to merge heavily psychedelic rock with articulate lyricism into an anthem as much thought provoking as it is sonically thrilling. It’s demanding, it asks questions and it’s the most compelling record yet from a band that continues to live out its artistic and musical ideals. A must listen for those who like their rock substantive and atmospheric.
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