Parallel Dance Ensemble

Parallel Dance Ensemble is a collaborative project between New Zealand vocalist/rapper Coco Solid and Danish producer Robin Hannibal. Formed after a meeting at the 2008 Red Bull Music Academy, the duo bridges the gap between the Southern Hemisphere's indie-rap scene and the sophisticated electronic production of Europe.

Their sound identity is defined by a 'mutant disco' aesthetic, heavily influenced by the early 80s downtown NYC scene, specifically the rhythmic, art-damaged funk of groups like Tom Tom Club and ESG. Hannibal's production is characterized by minimalist arrangements, analog warmth, and a keen sense of rhythmic timing, while Coco Solid provides a distinctive vocal presence that utilizes deadpan delivery and surrealist lyricism. Their career peaked in the early 2010s with releases on influential labels like Permanent Vacation, positioning them within the global 'indie-dance' and 'nu-disco' movements. Critical consensus highlights their ability to make dance music that is intellectually stimulating and rhythmically infectious without relying on club clichés. They remain a cult favorite for crate-diggers and fans of the DFA Records sound.