JACQUI L – Planet Parallel 5

Planet Parallel 5, the debut album from solo artist Jacqui L, combines elements of experimental Progressive Metal, Alternative Rock, and Power Metal, all blended together with a top-coat of eclectic postmodernism.

Forged by Jaqui L herself, and a band comprised of seasoned session players, this 10 track debut features a wide range of sounds and styles, all the while centering around a Prog Metal nucleus. L’s artistic approach is reminiscent of Alice Cooper or Lizzy Borden, in that she delivers her performance in character, in this case as an extraterrestrial from planet PP5. Despite the overtly sci-fi underlying concept, only a few of the songs have blatantly off-world themes, notably “Decaying Orbit”. Other tracks like “Frankenstein” would not be out of place on a Nightwish or Xandria album.

Listeners looking for a quick metal fix may be a bit lost with this release. Most of the tracks have lengthy intros, and generally fall in mid-tempo territory. Planet Parallel 5 may lack the high energy, driving power that many Progressive Metal fans have come to expect. On the other hand, fans who like their metal a bit more cerebral and atmospheric, will probably enjoy this release.

Vocally, Jacqui L’s style is along the lines of Edenbridge or After Forever. There are no growling or Death Metal vocals to be found here. This certainly helps to make Planet Parallel 5 a more accessible release and will help it appeal to the more casual Hard Rock fans, who may be tempted to put this on following a fresh Pink Floyd listening.