Parcels: A Musical Journey from Byron Bay to Berlin and Beyond
Parcels, a band formed in high school in Byron Bay, made a spontaneous move to Berlin within six months of their inception. The band members, all in their teens at the time, felt the need to leave their small town and explore new opportunities. This decision turned out to be pivotal for the group, leading to a record deal with French label Kitsuné after the release of their debut EP in 2015.
Their journey took an unexpected turn when they caught the attention of Daft Punk during their first gig in Paris. This encounter led to a collaboration that resulted in the single "Overnight," which became Daft Punk's final production. Working with Daft Punk provided Parcels with invaluable lessons in music production and refinement, shaping their approach to creating music.
Parcels released their self-titled debut album in 2018, followed by the ambitious double album "Day/Night" in 2021. Their music, characterized by Beach Boys-style harmonies and disco-funk influences, has garnered over 1 billion streams worldwide. The band's energetic live performances have also earned them a dedicated following, with appearances at festivals like Coachella and Glastonbury.
After nearly a decade of nonstop touring and recording, Parcels took a much-needed break in 2023 to recharge and focus on individual music projects. This hiatus culminated in their upcoming third album, "Loved," recorded in various studios around the world. The album draws inspiration from a diverse range of genres and influences, reflecting each band member's unique musical tastes.
"Loved" explores themes of love and duality, blending upbeat disco grooves with introspective lyrics. The album's title reflects a sense of being loved in both the past and present, capturing the band's evolution over the years. Despite the changes and growth they've experienced, the core essence of Parcels remains intact when they come together to create music.
As the band members approach their 30s and some have returned to Australia while others remain in Berlin, their shared passion for music continues to drive their creative journey. The bond forged over a decade of collaboration has allowed them to evolve both personally and artistically, while staying true to the spirit of Parcels.