Parallel Compression?

[NikTheGypsy]

I do apologize if this is a bit of a newbie question, but alas, I am a newbie. Could someone please describe and explain what exactly parallel compression is and how would it be used in a practical, or impractical, setting?

 

[Manicompression]

http://www.faderwear.com/guides/parallel_compression.shtml

 

[The StabbinCabin]

Look up Pensado's Place on youtube

 

[JeffTD]

http://www.faderwear.com/guides/parallel_compression.shtml

This is my SHIT. Love these guides. Still references them sometimes