Portuguese artist Armando Mendes makes a huge statement with his debut album Parallel Universe, which was written and recorded over two-and-a-half years between LA, London, and Berlin with legends including Robert Owens, Ithaka from the N.W.A. crew, and Defected's Jinadu. Armando Mendes is one of Portugal's most assured artists. His rich and musical sound is informed by jazz and funk and he has played all over the world from Russia to Australia. His tremendous debut album ranges across the electronic music spectrum from downbeat and jazzy to deep house and electronica.