Southern multi-instrumentalist Mike Strickland, the creative force behind Parallama, kicks off 2025 with ‘Castor’—a vibrant, groove-laden single that blends indie-rock energy, psychedelic funk, and alternative pop into a fresh, electrifying sound.
Serving as the first taste of his upcoming sophomore album, the track showcases Strickland’s evolution as a songwriter and collaborator, proving that Parallama is quickly becoming a must-watch name in the alt-music sphere.
From its opening notes, ‘Castor’ exudes a playful yet polished swagger, driven by super-funky basslines, triumphant guitar licks, and hypnotic rhythms that feel ripped straight from a lost Tarantino soundtrack. Strickland describes the track as a “psychedelic funk” revelation, one that came to him in a burst of inspiration and was later refined with the help of musician friends—adding textural depth and dynamic interplay to its already infectious core. The result is a song that breathes and bends, balancing tight musicianship with freewheeling creativity.
‘Castor’ carries Strickland’s signature introspective yet accessible touch, though it’s the instrumental chemistry that truly shines. The track’s immersive grooves and colorful melodies suggest a band firing on all cylinders, even as it remains (at heart) the vision of a single auteur. It’s a testament to Strickland’s growth since his 2024 debut, where his classical violin roots first collided with DIY rock ambition. Now, with like-minded collaborators in the mix, Parallama’s sound feels bigger, bolder, and more unpredictable.
Parallama’s ‘Castor’ is a vibrant blend of psychedelic funk and indie rock that feels fresh and exhilarating. This single showcases the band’s growth and creative evolution, promising great things for their forthcoming album.
