Parachute Lands No. 1 Album On iTunes

Photo Credit: Wendy Hu

The rain didn't stop concertgoers from attending Parachute's standing room only performance last Monday night at Mercury Lounge. In fact, if anything, last week was just a preview of what's to come in the upcoming weeks for the Virginia-based band.

This week, their single "Under Control" is featured as the iTunes single of the week and their debut album (due in stores Tuesday, May 19) is already No. 1 on the iTunes chart! Not to mention, my exclusive interview with frontman Will Anderson was just posted on Marie Claire today. You can read it on the blog as well as MarieClaire.com.

I first came across the band last year while they were known as Sparky's Flaw. Catching their performance at The Knitting Factory, I loved what I saw and reviewed it for MTV's concert blog as well as interviewed Will. It's truly amazing to see their progress over the past year — from touring Thursday - Sundays so it wouldn't conflict with college classes to a record deal, national ad campaign and now the top of the charts. I have a feeling this is only the beginning for Parachute.

Playing songs off their debut full-length, Losing Sleep, Parachute gave all in attendance a glimpse into the future last Monday. Having been on tour with Switchfoot, Matt Nathanson and O.A.R. the band proved they're equipped for a headlining show. From the arena friendly pop rock sound of "Back Again" and "Under Control" to the solid saxophone feature in their cover of Billy Joel's "Movin' Out," Parachute truly left an impression.

Their eight song set was diverse, showcasing their ability to switch up the faster tempo tracks with the slower ballads. Introducing "She Is Love" Will Anderson said, "I just wanted to write a simple love song and this is what came out." A beautiful acoustic ballad, the track showcased his soulful, yet angelic vocals.

Quite surprised at the turnout for a 7 p.m. show on a Monday night, Anderson expressed the band's appreciation to the crowd. "Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. We couldn't thank you enough for coming out tonight," he said before ending the night with high energy song "Out of Control." I have a feeling they'll be back to New York in no time.

To download Parachute's song "Under Control" for free on iTunes click here. If you like it, you can purchase the full album for $6 here or buy it in stores May 19th. As if I haven't promoted them enough, I just bought it myself and it's definitely one of the best albums I've heard this year. Check them out on MySpace and catch a show when they're in town!

Recommended: For fans of Maroon 5, The Fray, John Mayer, Matt Nathanson, Jason Reeves.