Up and coming kiwi songstress Mel Parsons has been steadily swaying critics, industry and audiences alike with her debut album Over My Shoulder. The album was released independently in New Zealand through Border Music and DRM in March 2009. Parsons is from the West Coast of the south island and has been composing her own music for over 10 years. She has a music degree from the University of Auckland and also spent time studying at MAINZ and the Nelson School of Music.
Over My Shoulder was recorded in Wellington under the guidance of ex-Mutton Birds guitarist and celebrated producer David Long (Fur Patrol, Dave Dobbyn) and draws on a healthy array of kiwi musicians from core band the Rhythm Kings (Shaun Elley, Aaron Stewart, Ed Zuccollo, Neil Watson) to contributions from Don McGlashan and the Sami Sisters.
Following the release of the album Parsons and her band completed a highly successful nationwide tour in March and April which saw them perform 12 shows around the country. Another 5-date tour of the South Island in August was also well received, along with a recent appearance at the Nelson Arts Festival, where both shows were sold out. The album has been well received by radio, and is currently play-listed on National Radio, Kiwi Fm and B-Net stations (also currently being serviced to Classic Hits and More FM) The video clip for single Darlin’ Darlin’ produced by Outrageous Fortune director Murray Keane has been gaining attention and increasing airplay on both Juice TV and J2. A video for the single It’s Been Good is currently in production.
Over My Shoulder has a broad appeal, and the heartfelt compositions on the record are a warm subtle blend of folk, pop and country influences. Parsons’ ear for a tune and the attention to detail on production of the album has been noted by critics across the board. While still bubbling away under the surface, Parsons is building a solid fan-base through her live shows and slowly but surely the word is getting out - all indicators thus far suggest that she is one to watch.
Critics are saying: “..an album that deserves to grab serious attention..” -Graham Reid, Elsewhere “Best music we got sent this week……Parsons has a voice that could work any night in Nashville yet sounds somehow intrinsically New Zealand - and the songs are good, very good. We're converted…” - BlackLOG, BLACK magazine online
