Breezy, summer pop
characterizes the output of this Cleveland act, led by songwriter
Tom Dechristofaro and keyboardist/arranger Leia Hohenfeld. Parade
is a swell, light-weight twee treat with several solid songs
although no knock-outs. The approach is a fairly understated one, as
these tracks are sweet and refreshing though not the sort which
replays endlessly in one's mind. Instrumentally, the band features
C86-style guitars and buzzing, sixties bubblegum keyboards to accompany Dechristofaro's lush vocals. Occasionally, Hohenfeld contributes her
saccharin voice to the proceedings, adding an appreciated bit of
variety to an otherwise homogeneous affair. Parade's standout
moments include sweeping "Mitten Fingers" and airy "Bubblegum 45,"
the latter of which reminds me of cheeky Norwegian act The Loch Ness Mouse.
On the other hand, the goofy "Catholic School" epitomizes the main
flaw in this record - too much sugar and pop, with limited content;
the chorus, which rhymes the word "school" approximately five
thousand times, echoes this sentiment nicely. Still, most of this
record is a joyful exploit, expertly designed for those who still
mourn the passing of Sarah Records.
