The Elephant Parallax's Page

Guitarists Benigno Esau Gonzalez and David Renteria, bassist Stephen Charouhas, and drummer Paul Charouhas are each an integral part of Los Angeles progressive metal band the Elephant Parallax. There is room for both collective and individual expression in the Elephant Parallax, and in this way, the band is a musical symposium of sorts; as Gonzalez says, "It has to be everyone's."

Gonzalez and Renteria developed the concept for the band in 2007. The two guitarists began composing music with Stephen Charouhas shortly after, and the bassist quickly brought his older brother, Paul, into the fold. In their formative years as musicians, each player's taste and early experiences varied; these differences allow for a free-flow of creativity when the four band members come together. 

In 2008, the Elephant Parallax started solidifying material for a self-titled EP. At this time, they began sharing lead vocal duties and fleshing out four-part harmonies. Lyrically, the band does not shy away from exploring metaphysical and social issues. Renteria wrote and sang lead on "Incenfeminalgia," inspired by the Leonard Shlain book, Alphabet Vs. the Goddess. Renteria found the book to be extremely poignant and inspiring, as it examines literacy's impact on mankind's spiritual aspects. "Shlain says that when something little changes, it puts into effect many changes in the bigger scope," the guitarist says. This theme is reoccurring and coincides with the band's music, as their songs seamlessly shift in instrumentation, texture, and mood. 

The self-titled EP, mixed by Renteria and Gonzalez and mastered by King Crimson producer Ronan Chris Murphy, was finished in early 2010. The band continues to play shows throughout California in support of the EP while working on pieces for a recording which will be released later this year. The perspective of the Elephant Parallax continues to evolve as the band creates intricate, honest music that is fueled by intense performances.

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contact Master Cat Promotions

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