Thrice - The Alchemy Index Vols. I & II: Fire & Water

[Tom Good]

Thrice – The Alchemy Index Volumes I & II: Fire & Water
Release Date: October 16th, 2007
Record Label: Vagrant Records

Fire and water are two elements necessary for life; one provides sustenance to support all living creatures while the other provides the energy responsible for the very reactions that make life possible. Yet, despite their shared importance, both substances remain polar opposites and mortal enemies. When combined, water quenches fire and fire causes water to evaporate if given the right circumstances. The fact that these two substances remain completely different yet both extremely important in their own right make them a perfect descriptive inspiration for the first half Thrice’s highly ambitious, four EP undertaking The Alchemy Index.

The Fire EP is a collection of the harder songs that we knew Thrice was still capable of composing. This is not the Illusion Of Safety era intensity but the newer post-hardcore heaviness hinted at on Vheissu. Audibly sharing more in common with Cave In than Metallica, the disc is a culmination of the aggressive aspects of Thrice and sees the band achieving the nearly impossible goal of sounding incredibly heavy despite the lack of galloping drum beats and thrash metal riffs. The lumbering baritone guitars of “Firebreather” set an emotive tone before the song takes a completely different direction and climaxes with gang vocal harmonies over Kensrue’s impassioned belting vocals. It’s amazing to see how far Kensrue has come vocally since the band’s inception. Looking back it would be tough to imagine the complete transformation he has made into full fledged front man, demanding attention on every flame induced word. “The Messenger” is a fiery (no pun intended) blast that wouldn’t sound out of place on The Artist In The Ambulance. The track is two and a half minutes of Botch-like guitars and Riley Breckenridge’s thunderous drums creating an atmosphere of urgency that ranks up with some of the hardest-hitting material Thrice has ever composed. Allusions to fire are scattered all throughout the lyrical content, and although there is no lack of direct elemental metaphors, the topic is woven seamlessly, and more important tastefully, into Kensrue’s intelligent repertoire of lyrics. The production on both Fire and Water is spot on and an excellent screen to filter Thrice’s creative vision. Like Refused’s The Shape Of Punk To Come, the production is used to enhance certain segments instead of making it sound like the same recycled songs over and over. When the mix suddenly drops into low-fi mode during “The Arsonist”, Kensrue screaming in what sounds like a large echoic room acts as a unique addition adding a quality of originality into an already interesting piece. From here we are gripped out of the volcano and plunged into the ocean for the second half of the natural journey.

The yin to the Fire EP’s yang, the Water EP, ranks among the strongest material Thrice has created to date. The six-song set encompasses its topic, trading in the cacophonous instrumentation of the first half of the album for reverb and delay soaked keyboards and synthesized drum beats. The interesting part is that despite its calmer demeanor, the water songs are just as heavy as those residing on the Fire EP, just a different kind of heavy. The moody vocals on “The Whaler” when Kensrue asks, “When are you coming home to me?” can’t be taken as anything but genuine and beautiful. This performance proves that the band is capable of captivating every ounce of attention through the subtle roar of a whisper. The keyboards and syncopated beat of “Digital Sea” show a distinct Kid A era Radiohead influence, but not so overbearing that it takes away from what Thrice has created. From Explosions In The Sky to Sigur Ros, the outside inspiration of many ambient bands is clear on this EP and the homage to these acts only pushes Thrice further out of the box in which they once resided. “Open Water” could be considered a counterpart of sorts to Vheissu’s “Atlantic” due to its similar tone and operatic chorus. Simplicity and atmosphere are the keys to the success of the second part of the Thrice’s four-part opus, and luckily for us, they never once cross the dangerous line of sounding like their evolution is forced.

Put away your preconceived notions of the band and look at The Alchemy Index Volumes 1 & 2 for what it is. Sure, some longtime fans may be put off by the transformation and pine for their hardcore heroes, but the band is maturing and writing some of their best material thus far. This is not The Illusion of Safety, and although each album the band writes shows a progression, I wouldn’t want the band to try that sound again. This is Thrice more confident and comfortable than they’ve been heard in a while. Like their fan base, the band is maturing and with this growth a change is required, which in this case is a welcome one.. There is more present on this album than a listener can digest in one sitting, which could deter potential listeners, but with the right amount of dedication, the first half of The Alchemy Index can satisfy your urges for hard and soft alike. But the effects are much larger than that. Like the very same ancient elements that inspired this album, it is possible for two completely different forces to coexist on a single plane and produce something awe inspiring. This is exactly what Thrice has done by uniting their love for different genres of music and combining them into the record they wanted to make. Thankfully, the combination of fire and water doesn’t smolder out, but flourishes, creating yet another impressive Thrice album.

1. Firebreather
2. The Messenger
3. Backdraft
4. The Arsonist
5. Burn The Fleet
6. The Flame Deluge
7. Digital Sea
8. Open Water
9. Lost Continent
10. Night Diving
11. The Whaler
12. Kings Upon The Main AP.net Profile (http://www.absolutepunk.net/artists/showlink.php?do=showdetails&l=1572) | Myspace (http://www.myspace.com/thrice) | Purevolume (http://www.purevolume.com/thrice) | Vagrant Records Site (http://www.vagrant.com/)

[princesschad]

Yeeeaah, gonna buy this tomorrow.

[Steve Henderson]

The scores on this site are too high!!!!1

Just kidding...excellent review, Tom. Higher than I would have rated it (some parts drag on a bit), but a definite step up from Vheissu.

[Scott Irvine]

I'd say a '9' for lyrics is very debatable, but great review nonetheless. Nice work Tom.

[Steve Henderson]

I'd say a '9' for lyrics is very debatable, but great review nonetheless. Nice work Tom.
Really? I think Dustin's lyrics are always excellent.

[JohnDorian]

I never would have thought about the similar sound to some of Cave In's material, but now that you mention it it seems so obvious.

[JohnDorian]

I also think the lyrics for water are some of the best Kensrue has committed to paper.

[Tom Good]

The scores on this site are too high!!!!1

Just kidding...excellent review, Tom. Higher than I would have rated it (some parts drag on a bit), but a definite step up from Vheissu.Yeah, I like it better than Vheissu.

[anamericangod]

Yeah, I like it better than Vheissu.

I do too.

[Rich Duncan]

Awesome review Tom. I only listened to this once really quick when it was streaming, ill have to give it another listen

[airik625]

a very hard review to tackle. very impressive - this was a great read. now if only my pre-order would come in. i love this cd

[lilRIPsta]

Yeah, I like it better than Vheissu.


Vheissu was a masterpiece

[Tom Good]

a very hard review to tackle. very impressive - this was a great read. now if only my pre-order would come in. i love this cdyou're telling me. This one took me a while.

[Poochemist]

EXTREMELY excited about picking this one up tomorrow. This was going to be my 2nd most anticipated album of the year, behind the Glassjaw album that never materialized. Oh well. Great review.

[meeotch]

Good lookin review. This album is everything I wanted from them and more. So pumped to pick it up tomorrow.

[DFelon204409]

The production on both Fire and Water is spot on and an excellent screen to filter Thrice’s creative vision. Like Refused’s The Shape Of Punk To Come, the production is used to enhance certain segments instead of making it sound like the same recycled songs over and over. When the mix suddenly drops into low-fi mode during “The Arsonist”, Kensrue screaming in what sounds like a large echoic room acts as a unique addition adding a quality of originality into an already interesting piece.

"The Messenger" greatly benefits from its electronic flourishes and "The Arsonist"'s bridge uses really cool distortion and chorus effects a la the guitar riff in "The Shape of Punk to Come" by Refused to bring back life into the song before the crushing outro.

I'm sorry but it's a little suspect that my review of this album posted last Friday has some uncanny similarities. Not just this but there are a few other little observations in the absolutepunk review that are ridiculously similar to those in the sputnik one. Don't believe it? Read for yourself: http://www.sputnikmusic.com/album.php?reviewid=13824

With that said, pretty good review.

[joshy hizzle]

Shit when did this review come up?

[joshy hizzle]

lyrics deserve higher than 9 too..

come on, its Kensrue

[elvis2x]

Thrice is dead.I don't understand why people still care.

[Drew Beringer]

I love Dustin's lyrics. great great review, one of the best ever on this site.

[AtlanticRadio]

Amazing review. What a great job.

And I'm loving the album (my pre order came early!). The lyrics to "Lost Continent" are absolutely breathtaking.

[Daniel Thompson]

god, I cannot wait for tomorrow.

[Daniel Thompson]

Thrice is dead.I don't understand why people still care.

Just out of curiosity
When did Thrice die?

[huntingbears]

I'm sorry but it's a little suspect that my review of this album posted last Friday has some uncanny similarities. Not just this but there are a few other little observations in the absolutepunk review that are ridiculously similar to those in the sputnik one. Don't believe it? Read for yourself: http://www.sputnikmusic.com/album.php?reviewid=13824

With that said, pretty good review.

I can't tell if that was a joke or not, but if it was, lol he beat me to it.
and if it's not, then that's just funny that that would happen to two reviews in the same day

[KidLightning]

I'm sorry but it's a little suspect that my review of this album posted last Friday has some uncanny similarities. Not just this but there are a few other little observations in the absolutepunk review that are ridiculously similar to those in the sputnik one. Don't believe it? Read for yourself: http://www.sputnikmusic.com/album.php?reviewid=13824

With that said, pretty good review.
Oh no! Two people heard the same piece of music and had similar thoughts on it. UN-FUCKING-CANNY!!!

You might've had a point had your review actually been readable and, you know, good.

Try again some other time.

[cereal4life]

Oh no! Two people heard the same piece of music and had similar thoughts on it. UN-FUCKING-CANNY!!!

You might've had a point had your review actually been readable and, you know, good.

Try again some other time.

Well said and precisely my thoughts as well!

[KidLightning]

Well said and precisely my thoughts as well!
I got about halfway through the ramblings on the fire disc and that was with a few breaks and I couldn't take it anymore. It was boring, rather poorly written, and self-indulgent.

[gonfreaks]

Great review. I'd give it a bit lower, mid-80s perhaps. I really like it, though, Fire's not bad but Water's the real gem of the two.

[DFelon204409]

I can't tell if that was a joke or not, but if it was, lol he beat me to it.
and if it's not, then that's just funny that that would happen to two reviews in the same day

Not in the same day, but more than a few days apart. Not to be a hater or anything. I obviously agree with a lot of the points made in both reviews. I was surprised that people would respond with the old "oh people have same opinions oh weird stfu" kinda thing. Everybody engages in groupthink. If the reviewer didn't catch even the slightest whiff of my review, I'd believe it. The things I pointed out are pretty apparent on the surface of the music, mostly in the production. However, I'd be more quick to assume some degree of bleeding from my review into this one.

[DFelon204409]

I got about halfway through the ramblings on the fire disc and that was with a few breaks and I couldn't take it anymore. It was boring, rather poorly written, and self-indulgent.

Rather indeed. Read my other reviews. It's not about being journalistically immaculate. It's more about describing and analyzing how the band engages me with the album and how successful that is. I only write tomes for Thrice albums. Think of it as the redux version of a normal review. It's not about readability or excitement. It's about being meticulous in recording my reactions to the album. Yes, self-indulgent, but who cares. I sure have a good time documenting it.

[AnvilFace]

Thrice is dead.I don't understand why people still care.

you wanna listen to the punk of identity crisis?...then go listen to identity crisis. you wanna hear the metal of illusion?( thier best work..i know).... then go listen to illusion.you want a mix of identity and illusion?....go listen to the artist in the ambulance. if you want something with a little more substance and musicianship?then go listen to vheissu. you want some thing with ALOT more substance and WAY BETTER musicainship?.....huh do ya?....well i know you dont since you think thrice is dead, and you my friend need to learn to grow with bands and stop wanting the same recycled shit. over and over and over and over and over and over and go BUY the alchemy index....fucker

[Tom Good]

I'm sorry but it's a little suspect that my review of this album posted last Friday has some uncanny similarities. Not just this but there are a few other little observations in the absolutepunk review that are ridiculously similar to those in the sputnik one. Don't believe it? Read for yourself: http://www.sputnikmusic.com/album.php?reviewid=13824

With that said, pretty good review.I didn't even read your review. I personally think Refused's masterpiece is one of the best produced albums ever and therefore the benchmark that I base unique production on. When I make a claim that the production adds to a piece, that album is immediately what comes to mind. I respect your thoughts and appreciate your comment, but I assure you I didn't even read your review until you just posted this.

[emkvetwin]

very nicely done. listened once, and it sounded amazing, but want to save my long-term judgments for when i actually own this album. having said that, great review.

[DFelon204409]

I didn't even read your review. I personally think Refused's masterpiece is one of the best produced albums ever and therefore the benchmark that I base unique production on. When I make a claim that the production adds to a piece, that album is immediately what comes to mind. I respect your thoughts and appreciate your comment, but I assure you I didn't even read your review until you just posted this.

I believe you then. We can chalk up the similarity to coincidence or "great minds..."

Do you have the remastered dolby dvd audio The Shape of Punk to Come? I only have my audio cd copy. I'm curious if the surround really does expand the album that much.

[Tom Good]

I believe you then. We can chalk up the similarity to coincidence or "great minds..."

Do you have the remastered dolby dvd audio The Shape of Punk to Come? I only have my audio cd copy. I'm curious if the surround really does expand the album that much.haha, yeah I do actually. It's really good. I normally don't get stuff like that, but I had to. "The Deadly Rhythm" sounds nuts. That album single handedly changed how I look at production.

[TranscendTrends]

first off, nice effort on the review, tom. although, i must say that your avatar is quite annoying (sorry, it just is).

why the hell is the member album rating only at 75%?! that's bullshit. the concept, arrangement, and follow-through of this album is waaaaay above the average band on here. who is bringing that rating curve down?

and the lyrics should be a 10, no doubt in my mind. again, the depth, vocabulary, and themes of the songs' lyrics are on a different level than the average punk-pop band on here. c'mon.

[Tom Good]

first off, nice effort on the review, tom. although, i must say that your avatar is quite annoying (sorry, it just is).

why the hell is the member album rating only at 75%?! that's bullshit. the concept, arrangement, and follow-through of this album is waaaaay above the average band on here. who is bringing that rating curve down?

and the lyrics should be a 10, no doubt in my mind. again, the depth, vocabulary, and themes of the songs' lyrics are on a different level than the average punk-pop band on here. c'mon.haha thanks man. I was gonna change the avatar soon anyway, then maybe you'll like me:-(. I think the lyrics are awesome too, but a 9 is a ridiculously good score out of 10.

[Blake Solomon]

*clears throat*


more like TOMMMM REMARKABLEEEEEEEE

[TranscendTrends]

haha thanks man. I was gonna change the avatar soon anyway, then maybe you'll like me:-(. I think the lyrics are awesome too, but a 9 is a ridiculously good score out of 10.

haha, no worries man. you seem like a cool dude, it's just that sometimes i make the mistake of prematurely judging other people partially b/c of their choice of avatar.

and yeah, i wasn't complaining about your ratings---yours were spot-on. i really like how you compared their style to cave in, botch, sigur ros, and especially refused. i was complaining about the member ratings for lyrics. i just rated it myself, so i helped to raise that average up 4 percent, to 79%. hopefully that will continue to rise.

the water EP is fucking brilliant. and the sonnets were such a great afterthought to the album... i love how they all end on the same chord progression.

[TranscendTrends]

*clears throat*


more like TOMMMM REMARKABLEEEEEEEE

i kinda thought that line would come along. well done.

hey, as a sidenote, do you happen to go to the university of missouri? my sister goes there (i'm from kansas city, but i wanted to get the hell out of missouri for college).

[DFelon204409]

haha, yeah I do actually. It's really good. I normally don't get stuff like that, but I had to. "The Deadly Rhythm" sounds nuts. That album single handedly changed how I look at production.

One album that did it for me was Worship and Tribute. The production on that album isn't immaculate in terms of mixing or anything like that, but more in the choice and execution of tones. Every layer on those Pro Tools files sounds like a lot of love went into figuring out which tone would be perfect at any given time. There's also sort of a reverse causality too because Glassjaw are probably the most talented band I can think of at manipulating tone in their composition. "Stuck Pig" uses feedback and mute notes to create pitch content, not just as ambient noise, which is pretty insane for a major label post-hardcore band.

[MasonR5]

I got about halfway through the ramblings on the fire disc and that was with a few breaks and I couldn't take it anymore. It was boring, rather poorly written, and self-indulgent.
yeah, i hate to sound so negative, but these two cds really kinda disappointed me. still good stuff, but i had set my hopes a little too high for this release.

i really can't wait to hear Earth...gotta wait a couple months.

EDIT: after listening to these two EPs for the last two hours straight, i think they are both starting to grow on me.

[FUCKDIRTYWIPES]

good review and album.

[twentyfour07]

Awesome review. You really did the release great justice. There are just so many layers to all of the songs.. It's almost hard to digest at first. The more I listened though the more I was able to appreciate every little detail embedded in the EPs. To me, the water disc has some of the most beautifully written music in recent memory.. I can't help but but get chills every time I listen to Digital Sea, Open Water, and Lost Continent. Absolutely incredible.

Overall, the composition and execution of this release is stunning. Each track is gripping in its own way. Different absolutely, but their are so many bands out there that seem afraid to evolve their sound past what their label wants that I can truly say that for me, Thrice has shown me that in at least some cases, that's not true. Just my two cents.

P.S. I love the poe references in "The Arsonist".

[Blake Solomon]

i kinda thought that line would come along. well done.

hey, as a sidenote, do you happen to go to the university of missouri? my sister goes there (i'm from kansas city, but i wanted to get the hell out of missouri for college).



I sure do, and I did the same thing as you as I'm originally from Texas. i got the heck out of there.

[Tom Good]

One album that did it for me was Worship and Tribute. The production on that album isn't immaculate in terms of mixing or anything like that, but more in the choice and execution of tones. Every layer on those Pro Tools files sounds like a lot of love went into figuring out which tone would be perfect at any given time. There's also sort of a reverse causality too because Glassjaw are probably the most talented band I can think of at manipulating tone in their composition. "Stuck Pig" uses feedback and mute notes to create pitch content, not just as ambient noise, which is pretty insane for a major label post-hardcore band.Yeah, that is a great album. The guitar tones are really pretty great. I love way the guitars trickle in the chorus to "Radio Cambodia". It sounds like birds or something.

yeah, i hate to sound so negative, but these two cds really kinda disappointed me. still good stuff, but i had set my hopes a little too high for this release.

i really can't wait to hear Earth...gotta wait a couple months.

EDIT: after listening to these two EPs for the last two hours straight, i think they are both starting to grow on me.Give it time. Vheissu took me a while to get used to.

*clears throat*


more like TOMMMM REMARKABLEEEEEEEEhahahahaha

[trindaddy]

great review. gotta pick this one up today.

i think the next two will be better. thrice acoustic is so amazing.

[Praetor]

Great review, Tom, I have to say this is your best yet. I hope my preorder comes today...

[Tom Good]

Great review, Tom, I have to say this is your best yet. I hope my preorder comes today...Thanks bud, I appreciate it.

[Wyatt!!!]

What other good albums came out today?

[p, FRY]

great review.

waaaaay too early to say i like this better than Vheissu [which is one of my all time favorite albums], just based purely on the fact it took me at least a year to fully appreciate that.

this is a fine piece of work though, easily one of the years best and i cant wait to hear the conclusion.

[Tom Good]

What other good albums came out today?moros Eros, jimmy eat world and steel train are all out today

[Chemical Love]

Water > Fire

[superBMRuth]

as much as i love thrice, i didn't expect scores to be THIS high. can't wait to get this!

[SwishMX48]

Great review, I'm sure this was really tough to do...I'm a huge fan of Water right now, it sounds so good in headphones, especially Open Water

[jimboj917]

The scores on this site are too high!!!!1

Just kidding...excellent review, Tom. Higher than I would have rated it (some parts drag on a bit), but a definite step up from Vheissu.

I opened up an AP magazine last month and almost everything had 4 or 5 stars, it didn't make sense. Are people suddenly making good albums?

[kearn1tm]

This is the type of review others should aspire to be written like. I've always passed over Thrice, only listening to their singles and forming my own superficial opinions on the band based on a small selection of their catalogue. This review convinced me to give this album a try, and so I headed to their Myspace page to sample the selection of tracks. I enjoyed it and will now purchase the album. Great review and I believe it will be the catalyst to transforming myself into a Thrice fan.

[jimboj917]

moros Eros, jimmy eat world and steel train are all out today

i'm still waiting for my steel train preorder. looks like i'll be picking up the new jew, i spent $30 on the tickets to the show, it won't hurt to pay the $8 for the album.

[JCCC]

I'm not diggin this cd. I liked vheissu a lot so you think I would. Maybe it's a grower. It just seems boring right now, maybe not getting a producer for this album was a bad idea.

[Wyatt!!!]

moros Eros, jimmy eat world and steel train are all out today

I heard new JEW is boring/terrible.

I dont think it would be worth picking up unless it was anything like "clarity"

[inCinerate.1028]

getting this album today!

[Mr_V1tr1oL]

i love water EP! kinda meh for Fire EP

[Mr_V1tr1oL]

Water > Fire
exactly!

[Geoff Lou]

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Loudness_wars

[lauren<3s music]

Great as always. I can not wait.

[Greg.Kushlan]

underrated, this needed to be 100%

[grizbo]

i love water EP! kinda meh for Fire EP

That's exactly how I feel. I was looking forward to fire more than any other, but water is simply amazing.

[StriketheMartyr]

this album is amazing, everyone needs to stop comparing it to vheissu though!!

[Un'Aria Ancora]

I can't stop listnening to Open Water and Burn the Fleet! All of the songs are very solid though. I don't think I like it more than Vheissu, but I guess time will tell...

[walshknilb281]

first paragraph sounds like an essay for your science class. The last 3 songs on water kill the album actually the instrumental is pretty sick but the last two songs are pretty much the same and it doesn't leave you wanting more like Red Sky.

[BrokenMirror]

i couldnt possibly compare The Alchemy Index to Vheissu because they are very different albums, but make me choose and i say Vheissu is better. regardless this is a truly amazing album. has anyone ever seen a band evolve so effortlessly and effectively has Thrice has. The Illusion of Safety sounds like it was made by a completely different band. Thrice is easily my favourite band, and The Alchemy Index proves why. these guys are the best musicians in the world IMO

very well written review; this album probably needs several thousand words to truly pick apart the different aspects and movements the music takes but you did a REALLY nice job of condensing that into a nice four paragraph review by writing an overall appraisal of the work rather than trying to dissect it. nice job

[panicbxmb]

grabbing this the second i'm out of class. i've avoided the leak and preview, so i'm stoked to hear it :)

[DivisionStreet]

I heard new JEW is boring/terrible.

I dont think it would be worth picking up unless it was anything like "clarity"

You're right. It's always good to base your opinions on other people's. If someone says they don't like something, I don't pick it up. Ever.

And I compare every single album I listen to with Clarity. If it's not Clarity, it's shit. [/heavy sarcasm]

[Silver Bullets]

Well written, nice review. Thrice are quickly becoming one of my favorite bands.

[Scott Weber]

I'm sorry but it's a little suspect that my review of this album posted last Friday has some uncanny similarities. Not just this but there are a few other little observations in the absolutepunk review that are ridiculously similar to those in the sputnik one. Don't believe it? Read for yourself: http://www.sputnikmusic.com/album.php?reviewid=13824

With that said, pretty good review.
What the hell is sputnik music? please.


the production on this record is so much better than Vheissu. I'm still not totally into it though.

[WakingTheMisery]

This album does not deserve a 93.

[Johnny Clutch]

Great review Tom! This was seriously one of the best written reviews I've read for any album.

[saving jonathan]

was gonna pick this and JEW up today after class.
went to get in my car to go to class.
car batter dead = major hurtin' to my pockets, son.

good review tommayy.

[Ailite]

Great review, very well written. I agree with your scores, Dustin's lyrics can't be beat.

I can't wait to pick this up, though unfortunately that won't be until tommorow.

[HiddenInNJ]

love the description of "the arsonist"... the echoic nature of the song really grabbed me when listening to the streams.... have to pick this up today with J.E.W.

[Burnout2888]

P.S. I love the poe references in "The Arsonist".
Explain, I am not a huge Poe fan. I don't hate Poe but haven't really gotten into much of it. I love when bands reference poets and what not.

[TomAce]

Vheissu was a masterpiece

oof, im trying with every muscle in my face not to cringe too hard. The word masterpiece is thrown around so much with this band. When I think masterpiece I think of Elvis Costello "This Years Model", or The Whos "Tommy", or "Nevermind", "Abbey Road", maybe even "Whats The Story Morning Glory". Thrice really has yet to impact me in any way. They seem to just kinda drag on and on and on, especially live. Of course this is all a matter of personal oppinion. I just find Kensrues solo stuff alot more promising.

[Burnout2888]

What the hell is sputnik music? please.


the production on this record is so much better than Vheissu. I'm still not totally into it though.

Your avatar is humorous.

[i_like_delay]

The water disc is just incredible. I had heard digital sea before so when the album was playing through I didnt pay much attention until Open Water came on.... What an AMAZING song. Cant get enough of it. I had huuge hopes for this album and its everything I wanted. So so so so epic. Love it....

[underthetalking]

Waaaaay better than Vheissu.

[manican sex]

Im stoked of this because The Artist in the ambulance is one of my favorite albums, and I know this will make me love the band again.....when my preorder gets here :-(

edit, great fuckin review by the way tom.

[manican sex]

"Night Diving" reminds me of the water levels in Doney Kong, there almost spot on at the one part, anyone get me?

[lovewithcaution]

Production- 9.5?????????

This review just lost all merit. If it had any to begin with at all.

[IcedOpethBlind]

good lord some of you are retarded, if you want to debate scores then write up your own review, justify and score it yourself

[IcedOpethBlind]

Production- 9.5?????????

This review just lost all merit. If it had any to begin with at all.

so what are your quips with the production?

i think it was self-produced immaculately...

[Scott Weber]

good lord some of you are retarded, if you want to debate scores then write up your own review, justify and score it yourself
No offense, but there is zero chance you make this comment if it's not an album I see you nutting over every 10 seconds on Facebook, haha.

[lightcollapse]

vheissu is probably in my top 3 albums of all time, im so excited to get this today

[thecobrakais]

i'll have to agree with some, water is definitely the gem here. the fire disc was indeed heavy, but nothing i really felt like i could sing along to. as in their previous albums, they've proven that you can do heavy and melodic. i kind of felt like fire was just noise, granted there were a few really good tracks.

plus, i'm just listening to it all on their myspace player. as soon as i get out of work, i'll actually go buy the cd and give it another shot.

water is great though. such a mood cd.

[gregxthor]

I say "boo" to the artwork. what a great concept for an album, and the artwork just lets it down so badly.
i was expecting the promo picture they have up now on their myspace to be the album cover of each EP...
http://b1.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/01533/11/66/1533876611_m.jpg
would that not be a great idea? Oh well, right?

[Scott Weber]

I say "boo" to the artwork. what a great concept for an album, and the artwork just lets it down so badly.
i was expecting the promo picture they have up now on their myspace to be the album cover of each EP...
http://b1.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/01533/11/66/1533876611_m.jpg
would that not be a great idea? Oh well, right?
That would be so dumb if that picture was the cover to each EP, it would rank up there with the worst album covers of all time.

[DGlazier]

I'd say a '9' for lyrics is very debatable, but great review nonetheless. Nice work Tom.

have you read the lyrics on "Kings Upon The Main"? Or anything?

[Drew Beringer]

good lord some of you are retarded, if you want to debate scores then write up your own review, justify and score it yourself
haha seriously. Everyone expects our (the reviewers) opinion to reflect their opinions.

[DGlazier]

I say "boo" to the artwork. what a great concept for an album, and the artwork just lets it down so badly.
i was expecting the promo picture they have up now on their myspace to be the album cover of each EP...
http://b1.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/01533/11/66/1533876611_m.jpg

would that not be a great idea? Oh well, right?

Terrible idea. That sounds like something Coheed would do.

[Steve Henderson]

haha seriously. Everyone expects our (the reviewers) opinion to reflect their opinions.
We should act as elected officials, and have polls before writing each review. Then we can sum up what the masses think and toss in some pretty words.

[Sikbeat37]

This is seriously one of the most beautiful things that musicians have created in recent memory. I don't think I've just sat with an album and drifted away with it since...well, technically Radiohead a few days ago.

Still, awesome review and awesome album. I'll keep Illusion of Safety for my running music and Alchemy for everything else.

[tastyhillwomann]

"Night Diving" reminds me of the water levels in Doney Kong, there almost spot on at the one part, anyone get me?

i actualy thoguht the EXACT same thing! when ur in the later water levels in donkey kong country.... ridin a swordfish. hell yeah dude

[domesticyeti]

i didnt really like fire when i heard it, but water blew me away. fire just sort of seemed like more of the same

[kissinspiration]

Couldn't agree more. Excellent review.

[elvis2x]

you wanna listen to the punk of identity crisis?...then go listen to identity crisis. you wanna hear the metal of illusion?( thier best work..i know).... then go listen to illusion.you want a mix of identity and illusion?....go listen to the artist in the ambulance. if you want something with a little more substance and musicianship?then go listen to vheissu. you want some thing with ALOT more substance and WAY BETTER musicainship?.....huh do ya?....well i know you dont since you think thrice is dead, and you my friend need to learn to grow with bands and stop wanting the same recycled shit. over and over and over and over and over and over and go BUY the alchemy index....fucker

I love how you jumped into like 17 conclusions in response to two really short sentences. And resort to middle-schools insults too!

[xerovision1]

this is a pretty solid album, thrice is a very talented band. i think earth and air may end up being the better volumes, though.

[Drew Beringer]

We should act as elected officials, and have polls before writing each review. Then we can sum up what the masses think and toss in some pretty words.
I can't see it being any other way.

[kjs7]

What the hell is sputnik music? please.



.......

[thepianominstre]

Would anyone say that this is the defining post-hardcore "album" of 2007 as Define the Great Line was for 2006?

[attheshow123]

good review. i really liked your into.

[guitarhead913]

great review
i'm picking this up as soon as i can
i've already listened to the stream on myspace numerous times

[splat out path]

The Fire disc doesn't do it for me at all, but then again neither did Vheissu. Water is a rather special collection of songs, especially 'Open Water,' though.

[drudo182]

Picked the album up today. Listened to all of Fire. It's so sweet. Can't wait to start Water up.

[hailthewarrior]

Great review.

[screamoutmyname]

such a huge step up from Vheissu

[Machu505]

Water > Fire
But nothing could ever compare to the masterpiece that is The Artist in the Ambulance.

[Baseball Furies]

Very Excited

[bs7090]

this album does nothing for me.
does that make me a bad person?

[Scott Weber]

I really, really don't care for "Backdraft."

[TranscendTrends]

this album does nothing for me.
does that make me a bad person?

... yes. yes, it does.

[atticusfinch]

This was a great review man. Good stuff.

I picked this up today. I'm loving it. Thrice never fails to amaze my ears.

[Drew Beringer]

I like Fire, the only song I don't like is "Burn the Fleet." And Water is just, ah, so good.

And I feel that Vol III+IV will be better.

[TinMan20]

The "ballads" to both fire and water at the end of each disk are brilliant and deep. I never would have thought back in the illusion of safety days that Thrice would be capable of what they have acheived at the point. Im stoked for wind and earth.

[gregxthor]

That would be so dumb if that picture was the cover to each EP, it would rank up there with the worst album covers of all time.

well, maybe something to actually do with the themes of the albums?
water/fire/air/earth. whatever. bottom line. the cover is fuckin boring as hell.

[Burnout2888]

well, maybe something to actually do with the themes of the albums?
water/fire/air/earth. whatever. bottom line. the cover is fuckin boring as hell.

Right, because the alchemy symbols don't have to do with anything from the album.

[gregxthor]

Forget I even said anything....

[ArTkY_]

Love this review, really well written.

I came when I bought the album today.

[baton]

listening right now for the first time, it's amazing.. i like water definitely more, but both eps are pretty good - i expected fire to be a little different, i'll have to listen to it few times more

[Tom Good]

Production- 9.5?????????

This review just lost all merit. If it had any to begin with at all.Because of one score? Did you even read it? I respect your opinion, but what's wrong with the production? I'm just curious to get some more input.

[brentkid]

I really enjoy Water. Fire will have to grow on me some more.

[jmc]

I think that I am going to kill myself tonight.
Because, I completely forgot to plan this day out
finacially, and didn't have any money to buy it today.

Does anyone know how much it sold today?
If it would be posted at all, this soon.

[littledudeman]

just bought this today great stuff so far.

[Moral_Orel]

The scores on this site are too high!!!!1

Just kidding...excellent review, Tom. Higher than I would have rated it (some parts drag on a bit), but a definite step up from Vheissu.



I wasn't big on that album at all.

[Vismund_Cygnus]

This record is incredible. It is strong and fierce, but calm and moving all at the same time.

This record is worth having.

[Brett9]

great review, Tom...definitely agree with you on a lot of points.

i picked this up today (along with JEW), decided to listen to Thrice first, and I haven't had such an awesome experience with an album in a long time. I just love it. I've always been more a fan of their heavy stuff, and I personally was pretty cold on Vheissu. Loved some of it, but most of it just didn't do it for me. This is DEFINITELY a step in the right direction (in my opinion)...Fire is incredible, and I didn't think I would enjoy Water as much as I do. It's incredible. Overall, a phenomenal album as a whole...can't wait for the next two...

...And by the way, be sure to pick up JEW too...what a great day for music. :)

[Abs Punk Is Gay]

i think your score is fair, its definitely not as good as vhessiu, but still good. Fire was awesome right away but water took 5 or 6 listens for me to get into because at first i thought the songs were all too slow, but it has grown on me. I'd give fire a 95 and water a 90

[Tom Good]

i think your score is fair, its definitely not as good as vhessiu, but still good. Fire was awesome right away but water took 5 or 6 listens for me to get into because at first i thought the songs were all too slow, but it has grown on me. I'd give fire a 95 and water a 90See, that's how I felt. The Fire disc was pleasing at first, and while the water album took a little longer to get into, I know that it will stay with me longer than the fire stuff will. The Messenger is amazing though.

[12:46AM]

i think your score is fair, its definitely not as good as vhessiu, but still good. Fire was awesome right away but water took 5 or 6 listens for me to get into because at first i thought the songs were all too slow, but it has grown on me. I'd give fire a 95 and water a 90I hear Abs Punk has gay sex with Punknews.org.

Good review. After my first listen, I'm a little let down. But, Water > Fire.

[Tom Good]

I hear Abs Punk has gay sex with Punknews.org.

Good review. After my first listen, I'm a little let down. But, Water > Fire.Give it some time. I wasn't floored with it at first. It took driving around in my car with it for a while before I finally got into it. I like it way better than Vheissu now.

[12:46AM]

Give it some time. I wasn't floored with it at first. It took driving around in my car with it for a while before I finally got into it. I like it way better than Vheissu now.Yeah, I'm not one to toss out an album after one listen. I'm sure it'll grow. I loved Vheissu on my first playthrough though; unlike most people.

[manican sex]

i actualy thoguht the EXACT same thing! when ur in the later water levels in donkey kong country.... ridin a swordfish. hell yeah dude
hah thanks dude

[spooln407]

woke up this morning and first thing i did was call borders to hold a copy for me haha. picked it up in the morning and just sat in my car to listen to it. definately different but i love it. Water is definately something i can turn on while studying or just to go to sleep too. Fire is badass also

[thepianominstre]

My Wal-Mart didn't have it yet. And I want the physical album. At least I'm seeing them in concert with mewithoutyou Sunday.

[HolidayFromReal]

I find it weird that it was rated lowerst in "creativity" since I think Thrice has a lot of that, but great review! I got my pre-order today!!

[Shatter_Glass]

damn pre-order. fuck!

[Tom Good]

damn pre-order. fuck!Still haven't gotten it yet? It's funny because some preorders come BEFORE the album comes out. My Say Anything apparently shipped from merchnow today, which is earlier than I expected.

[flip]

preface: thrice is far and away my favorite band.

that said...after heavy rotation i still dig vheissu (and TAITA) more. I'm actually more excited about III & IV....especially Air, since I think I maybe like non-segregated thrice more than split apart thrice.

this is still going to be one of my favorite records of the year...just not THE favorite, which I was expecting.


to close...I'll completely arbitrarily rank how I view the thrice albums...despite the face that it will probably change by tomorrow:
1) TAITA 2) vheissu 3) ...alchemy and IOS tie maybe? i donno.

[verita]

I hate to say this... I almost never question the decision someone makes about music, because I realize that there's hardly anything at all that is truly objective, but I feel like if this album really doesn't do anything at all for you, you're simply not giving it enough of a chance. Maybe you're a fan of the old stuff, fine, but you have to at least appreciate the musicianship, the creativity, the lyrics, the melodies... gah, overload. Seriously, though: if you're really not getting this, let it sink in a little bit, then make up your mind.

As a side note, good review. What does everyone think about the idea that it's basically impossible to really review this until we hear air and earth? Amazing as it is, it's still not complete.

[polock]

oh how they have grown

[TranscendTrends]

I hate to say this... I almost never question the decision someone makes about music, because I realize that there's hardly anything at all that is truly objective, but I feel like if this album really doesn't do anything at all for you, you're simply not giving it enough of a chance. Maybe you're a fan of the old stuff, fine, but you have to at least appreciate the musicianship, the creativity, the lyrics, the melodies... gah, overload. Seriously, though: if you're really not getting this, let it sink in a little bit, then make up your mind.

As a side note, good review. What does everyone think about the idea that it's basically impossible to really review this until we hear air and earth? Amazing as it is, it's still not complete.

agreed and agreed. i want nothing else right now but to listen to all four albums in sequential order. i think that's why there are some mixed feeling among some of the posters here. can't you understand that this is only half of the full majesticity?? i want the other half of that majesticity... haha. i love that word

[aredsweatshirt]

Excellent review. So far I am enjoying this album thoroughly. Definitely gonna give it some listening time over the next week or so.

[monkeyboy14]

Nice review Tom. I quite enjoyed this record first listen though, especially the Water EP

[Tom Good]

Nice review Tom. I quite enjoyed this record first listen though, especially the Water EPThanks buddy. Yeah I agree that the water disc is better.

[Tom Good]

I hate to say this... I almost never question the decision someone makes about music, because I realize that there's hardly anything at all that is truly objective, but I feel like if this album really doesn't do anything at all for you, you're simply not giving it enough of a chance. Maybe you're a fan of the old stuff, fine, but you have to at least appreciate the musicianship, the creativity, the lyrics, the melodies... gah, overload. Seriously, though: if you're really not getting this, let it sink in a little bit, then make up your mind.

As a side note, good review. What does everyone think about the idea that it's basically impossible to really review this until we hear air and earth? Amazing as it is, it's still not complete.Trust me...it IS a hard album to review. It's funny because the comments turned out about how I figured they would. Half of the people love the cd and half of the people hate it. It really is a polarizing album depending on your views of Thrice and well, other different kinds of music.

[dildonicsboy]

I freaking love Water, I haven't gotten into Fire as much so far, but I think I'm starting to come around on it.

If anyone has a good playlist that mixes these albums into a regular album well, then post it. I think it would be kind of cool to make a more Vheissu-like album out of this just for the hell of it. Maybe when the next part comes out it will be easier.

Also, to anyone saying the production isn't good, what is wrong with it? I like it, I just want to know what is wrong with it so I can see where you are coming from.

[stupidcrack]

Lyrics are definitely not a 9 in my opinion. They are not inspiring and a little to negative. Vheissu's lyrics were WAY better. Vheissu is still the greatest album written in the history of music, although I think the Water EP is possibly better if you discount the lyrics. I love Water. Fire is good too though.

[Steve Henderson]

Lyrics are definitely not a 9 in my opinion. They are not inspiring and a little to negative. Vheissu's lyrics were WAY better. Vheissu is still the greatest album written in the history of music, although I think the Water EP is possibly better if you discount the lyrics. I love Water. Fire is good too though.
:eyebrow:

[cassusriff]

I don't see how anyone can not like at least half of this cd... it gives Thrice fans both hard and soft music. The water EP is amazing, but the Fire EP is not far behind. It took a long time for me to get in their last cd, but this one took about 3 listens (probably because I was more prepared for this kind of sound). Give this cd at least 3 spins before you make your final judgement on it. I love it.

Great review btw. :)

[Scott Weber]

:eyebrow:
haha that made me laugh pretty damn hard.

[akapral]

I have been listening to Water all day at work, I love it. Listened to Fire probably 2 times so far, love it as well. But of course I could never not like something Thrice put out :)

Some of these comments crack me up.

[Tom Good]

Lyrics are definitely not a 9 in my opinion. They are not inspiring and a little to negative. Vheissu's lyrics were WAY better. Vheissu is still the greatest album written in the history of music, although I think the Water EP is possibly better if you discount the lyrics. I love Water. Fire is good too though.I highly doubt Vheissu is the greatest album in the history of music. That's a bold claim no matter how much you love an album. I think the lyrics are good. Negativity doesn't mean lyrics can't be a 9. Not all songs have to be inspiring to affect people.

[The Breeze]

Happy to read Cave-In in this Tom. They kept coming to mind while listening to this album.

[stupidcrack]

I highly doubt Vheissu is the greatest album in the history of music. That's a bold claim no matter how much you love an album. I think the lyrics are good. Negativity doesn't mean lyrics can't be a 9. Not all songs have to be inspiring to affect people.
OK I cant say its the greastest album ever because I havent heard every album ever made. But to ME Vheissu is lyrically the best album I've heard. There really is no such thing because its all a matter of personal opinion.
I never said the lyrics wont affect people, I believe they will. You are clearly seeing them from a different view point which is fine. Maybe to YOU negativey doesn't mean lyrics can be a 9 but maybe to ME it does. Anyway Im just glad the disc is finally out, now comes the wait for Earth and Air.

[Tom Good]

Happy to read Cave-In in this Tom. They kept coming to mind while listening to this album.Yeah. I actually thought that comparison came to my mind after hearing "The Earth Will Shake" from Vheissu. That was some serious Cave-In influence. Plus I like Cave-In and Clouds a lot so any time I get to use a comparison I will, haha.

OK I cant say its the greastest album ever because I havent heard every album ever made. But to ME Vheissu is lyrically the best album I've heard. There really is no such thing because its all a matter of personal opinion.
I never said the lyrics wont affect people, I believe they will. You are clearly seeing them from a different view point which is fine. Maybe to YOU negativey doesn't mean lyrics can be a 9 but maybe to ME it does. Anyway Im just glad the disc is finally out, now comes the wait for Earth and Air.Well said, I respect your opinion man. Whatever you get out of the music is cool, it's a personal thing. I can't wait to hear Earth and Air, although I have no idea how it will sound.

[breakdownnotup]

Still listening over and over.

Like many I think it took longer for water to hit then fire.
The flame deluge is so epic it's ridiculous. I've never heard anything to haunting and so full of emotion.
It has references to so many things and really makes you think.

How can someone get so into their art they BECOME it? (Dustin becoming fire for the sonnet)

Obviously, I'm a hardcore fan so AITA will probably always be my favorite. But if I want to hear it, i will put it in. It stands the test of time, why make another?

Anyway, good review.
Can't wait to hear the others.

[Tom Good]

Still listening over and over.

Like many I think it took longer for water to hit then fire.
The flame deluge is so epic it's ridiculous. I've never heard anything to haunting and so full of emotion.
It has references to so many things and really makes you think.

How can someone get so into their art they BECOME it? (Dustin becoming fire for the sonnet)

Obviously, I'm a hardcore fan so AITA will probably always be my favorite. But if I want to hear it, i will put it in. It stands the test of time, why make another?

Anyway, good review.
Can't wait to hear the others.AITA is your fav? What about Illusion Of Safety? That album shreds still.

[flip]

count me as one of the people who doesn't "love" it...just likes it a lot.

[Tom Good]

Great as always. I can not wait.Thanks Lauren!

[sambourke]

I haven't heard that many people talking about night diving? I think it's such a cool instrumental and was the first track that really grabbed my attention on the first listen of the water album, havent listened to the whole album enough to decide my thoughts on it yet though.

[Tom Good]

I haven't heard that many people talking about night diving? I think it's such a cool instrumental and was the first track that really grabbed my attention on the first listen of the water album, havent listened to the whole album enough to decide my thoughts on it yet though.Night Diving sounds like ThrISIS

[stupidcrack]

Night Diving reminds me of Metallica around the Load era. When I first heard there was an instrumental song I thought 'oh no' but I really like it. It's a great song and it wouldn't be as powerful with lyrics.
Tom, by the way, other than our difference of opinion regarding lyrics, I thought your review was very good.

[manican sex]

haw anyone seen these guys play this stuff live yet?

[Scott Weber]

Well, on some more listens I officially don't like the Fire disc. I hate Backdraft and Burn the Fleet, the melodies drive me nuts for some reason I can't put my finger on. It's not nearly hard enough and a huge letdown for what I thought was a perfect chance for Thrice to reclaim their balls a little. That being said, Water is really awesome, and The Whaler is a top 5 song they've ever written. It's just so beautiful, and that ending gives me shivers more than any other song since "A Sweater Poorly Knit" by mewithoutYou. I think if I had to rate it it'd get a 7.3 or so in my book because I feel a lot of fire is very weak, but water is sweeping, dynamic, and just plan beautiful sometimes. So if I had to review them seperately - Fire = 6, Water = 8.8

[Just An End]

first Thrice album that I really loved... absolutely beautiful

[Tom Good]

Well, on some more listens I officially don't like the Fire disc. I hate Backdraft and Burn the Fleet, the melodies drive me nuts for some reason I can't put my finger on. It's not nearly hard enough and a huge letdown for what I thought was a perfect chance for Thrice to reclaim their balls a little. That being said, Water is really awesome, and The Whaler is a top 5 song they've ever written. It's just so beautiful, and that ending gives me shivers more than any other song since "A Sweater Poorly Knit" by mewithoutYou. I think if I had to rate it it'd get a 7.3 or so in my book because I feel a lot of fire is very weak, but water is sweeping, dynamic, and just plan beautiful sometimes. So if I had to review them seperately - Fire = 6, Water = 8.8I can totally see where you are coming from. That happened to me with a lot of Vheissu. I looooove the messenger, the arsonist and firebreather though.

[Tom Good]

Night Diving reminds me of Metallica around the Load era. When I first heard there was an instrumental song I thought 'oh no' but I really like it. It's a great song and it wouldn't be as powerful with lyrics.
Tom, by the way, other than our difference of opinion regarding lyrics, I thought your review was very good.Thanks man, I respect your opinion. Thanks for the kind words.

[Jared Kaufman]

I love every single track on both EPs now; I didn't at first, but after a couple of days and more listens it has clicked as a whole.

I don't think Thrice could ever let me down and will always remain one of my all-time favorite bands.

Great review, Tom "You Make Me Feel" Good.

xoxo

[Tom Good]

I love every single track on both EPs now; I didn't at first, but after a couple of days and more listens it has clicked as a whole.

I don't think Thrice could ever let me down and will always remain one of my all-time favorite bands.

Great review, Tom "You Make Me Feel" Good.

xoxoJARED!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! WE MISS YOU!!!!!!!!!

[lauren<3s music]

I love every single track on both EPs now; I didn't at first, but after a couple of days and more listens it has clicked as a whole.

I don't think Thrice could ever let me down and will always remain one of my all-time favorite bands.

Great review, Tom "You Make Me Feel" Good.

xoxo

where the hell have you been? one second im trying to pick your brain about the weakerthan show and then you're gone. don't you know us dc/nova people need to stick together

[airik625]

bring on earth and air! i wonder if the album art is going to be any different?

[Tom Good]

bring on earth and air! i wonder if the album art is going to be any different?Yeah I was wondering that. Maybe it will be like a different color? I think a nice red like the Lord Of The Rings special editions would be pretty good colors.

[airik625]

Yeah I was wondering that. Maybe it will be like a different color? I think a nice red like the Lord Of The Rings special editions would be pretty good colors.

i agree that would look really cool. but not too bright

[Tom Good]

i agree that would look really cool. but not too brighthaha, why not too bright? It'd be like Lord Of The Teppei

[airik625]

haha, why not too bright? It'd be like Lord Of The Teppei

haha. actually now that i think about, the exact same shade of LOTR:2T would look fantastic. i should call dustin and tell him

[Tom Good]

haha. actually now that i think about, the exact same shade of LOTR:2T would look fantastic. i should call dustin and tell himThat's EXACTLY what I had in mind. I think it would look pretty good. It's bad that I think about how these things will look next to eachother on my cd rack, haha.

[airik625]

That's EXACTLY what I had in mind. I think it would look pretty good. It's bad that I think about how these things will look next to eachother on my cd rack, haha.


i was actually thinking the same thing. i was picturing them next to each other and just admiring them.

sadly i have no more room on my side rack. i need to get a real big one that turns and transforms or something. i like all of my cds together and now that they are not i'm not happy since i have so many

[Tom Good]

i was actually thinking the same thing. i was picturing them next to each other and just admiring them.

sadly i have no more room on my side rack. i need to get a real big one that turns and transforms or something. i like all of my cds together and now that they are not i'm not happy since i have so manyYeah me too, I have like a thousand some cds. I have one of those HUGE cd racks, I'm almost out of room on it.

[Phoenix.Hush]

ive never been a huge fan of Thrice, but this album has totally turned me on to them (as well as some of their older stuff lol)

"Open Water" and "Backdraft" are definitely my favorite songs. but the whole thing is very good. but i especially the Water disc...i listened to it a ton of times back to back, then Fire, then the whole thing ;-]

but "Open Water" is definitely amazing..listened to it 20 times in a row 0_o haha

cant wait for Earth and Air..

[Tom Good]

ive never been a huge fan of Thrice, but this album has totally turned me on to them (as well as some of their older stuff lol)

"Open Water" and "Backdraft" are definitely my favorite songs. but the whole thing is very good. but i especially the Water disc...i listened to it a ton of times back to back, then Fire, then the whole thing ;-]

but "Open Water" is definitely amazing..listened to it 20 times in a row 0_o haha

cant wait for Earth and Air..You like it better than Digital Sea?

[stupidcrack]

Digital sea and Firebreather would probably be my favorite songs but since they were released early they kind of feel like a separated album or something.
My favorite is 'Lost Continent', but every song will probably be my favorite at some point in time, thats how it usually goes for me.

[birthstoned]

way better than i thought, they have outdone themselves.

[Tom Good]

Digital sea and Firebreather would probably be my favorite songs but since they were released early they kind of feel like a separated album or something.
My favorite is 'Lost Continent', but every song will probably be my favorite at some point in time, thats how it usually goes for me.I can see that. That's happened to me with albums before.

way better than i thought, they have outdone themselves.Yeah, definitely. I think they totally outdid themselves. I want to hear Earth and Air.

[Tom Good]

I love Dustin's lyrics. great great review, one of the best ever on this site.Woah, thanks Drew. I didn't even see that comment until now, haha.

[cereal4life]

Such a good review! I simply love thrice. Their maturation and musical diversity within and between albums never ceases to amaze me. I just hope they'll do an Aussie tour; I need to see them live.

[stayillogical]

Does Night Diving remind anyone else of Elegia by New Order?

[Tom Good]

Such a good review! I simply love thrice. Their maturation and musical diversity within and between albums never ceases to amaze me. I just hope they'll do an Aussie tour; I need to see them live.You need to see them live. I haven't seen them since TAITA came out though. I've seen em probably 6 or seven times though, just not anytime recently.

Does Night Diving remind anyone else of New Order by Elegia?haha, kind of. That is a good song too though.

[omgshe'sdead]

This album is everything I expected it to be after Vheissu. One of the best of the year.

[stayillogical]

haha, kind of. That is a good song too though.

Good. As long as it's not just me. Anyways, I love both EP's. But Water just a little more.

[bjumpsnota]

great review. i think this album is amazing. they are both stong although i'm liking 'water' more, especially 'open water'.

i saw them last night with brand new and i have to say it was one of the best perfomances i have seen in quite a while. they played a little bit of everything. they made brand new look like crap and brand new was fairly good. the only complaint i had was when the played 'digital sea' the keyboard was way to loud and you could barely hear the vocals. other than that they were awesome

[scole]

I like this album a lot. The transition from Fire to Water is ingenious, and I wish that other bands were this creative in their conceptions of albums. Also, the vocals are amazing, in my opinion.

[Phoenix.Hush]

You like it better than Digital Sea?

actually yea. cant totally explain it, i just like it better. maybe its the weird vocal thing at the end of "Digital Sea" ..dunno..i mean, they're both really good, dont get me wrong. "Open Water" just appeals to me more..sall good

[slam200]

This album definetly does not deserve a 93. I understand where you are coming from but it is not the songs that ruin this album for me, it's the execution. The bands ambitions are way above their heads with the whole "concept album" idea. They should ghave just done what they did wth vheiisu, take the ambitions they have for their music and execute it in a completely humble manner. That's why I loved Vheiisu so much, the complete change of direction sounded effortless and was so powerful at the same time. This album was ruined by the hype created by Thrice and their fans. As for concept albums go, these guys should have just done what MCR did with "the black parade", use the different genres portrayed by the songs and mix them throughout to make an extremely diverse yet cohesive epic. Overall, this album came out sounding forced and uneven. The last four expirimental tracks bored me to tears. This is of course my stupid opinion and you made a great review, maybe it will grow on me!

[polock]

This album is everything I expected it to be after Vheissu. One of the best of the year.

this is the best album of the year, for me anyway

[Tom Good]

This album definetly does not deserve a 93. I understand where you are coming from but it is not the songs that ruin this album for me, it's the execution. The bands ambitions are way above their heads with the whole "concept album" idea. They should ghave just done what they did wth vheiisu, take the ambitions they have for their music and execute it in a completely humble manner. That's why I loved Vheiisu so much, the complete change of direction sounded effortless and was so powerful at the same time. This album was ruined by the hype created by Thrice and their fans. As for concept albums go, these guys should have just done what MCR did with "the black parade", use the different genres portrayed by the songs and mix them throughout to make an extremely diverse yet cohesive epic. Overall, this album came out sounding forced and uneven. The last four expirimental tracks bored me to tears. This is of course my stupid opinion and you made a great review, maybe it will grow on me!Woah! thanks man. I'm glad to see someone actually use some constructive criticism instead of an immature backlash against the review. I can totally see your points and I respect them. I was a little upset about the concept idea at first but it grew on me.

[Hainzey X]

haha thanks man. I was gonna change the avatar soon anyway, then maybe you'll like me:-(. I think the lyrics are awesome too, but a 9 is a ridiculously good score out of 10.

haha im sorry, im really late on this but i must agree. that avitar needs to go !

[army+punk=?]

I was also disappointed by this album. For one releasing only half of the concept makes the release feel incomplete. Only songs that really stood out to me are the messenger, digital sea, and night diving. Granted those three songs are some of the best musical peices I've heard from thrice yet, but I wanted the experience of an album not an EP. This also doesn't really compare to Vheissu in my opinion. The song For Miles from Vheissu contains the most earth-shattering breakdown I've witnessed in a song yet.

[slatkaHRV]

this song is addictive---i've listened to it probably 25 times straight...every day (: sick i know but its just so damn good

[slatkaHRV]

by song i mean lost continent

oops!

[TheDudeOnTheSet]

i was looking forward towards this since i heard about it at work and i was SO PISSED WHEN I HEARD IT BECAUSE IT SUCKED!!!!!M-(

[Tom Good]

i was looking forward towards this since i heard about it at work and i was SO PISSED WHEN I HEARD IT BECAUSE IT SUCKED!!!!!M-( hahaha, why?

[what_ever]

Great review Tom, can definitely tell that it was a beast to write.

I think this is a fantastic album, just how everything completely fits into the concepts or fire and water, but how the lyrics and music can still be applied to life in general. I love how Dustin varies his tone and style of singing to fit the particular song, and how the lyrics and the production fit so well. Like in Backdraft, how the verse literally sounds like fire suffocating and waiting to be re-introduced to the oxygen of the chorus, or in Night Diving, how the in-and-out echo of the intro guitar sounds like the ebb of the tide and the sway of the waves.

My favorite track from each EP would have to be The Messenger and The Whaler, because IMO they both completely embody the style of their respective element and lyrics, and are both very pleasing listens. My least favorites are Burn the Fleet, because I would rather it be harder and less melody oriented (even though it was written that way and perfectly fits the subject matter of the song), and Lost Continent, because it just seems to drag with little variation.

Overall, I really enjoy and appreciate each EP as a separate work of art. Fire is louder and harder, with more lyrical description, and Water is smoother and haunting, with briefer yet more profound lyrical content.

Wonderful album.

[Brissona]

love water.. yet to get into fire though.

[thedondeluge]

I'd say a '9' for lyrics is very debatable, but great review nonetheless. Nice work Tom.

Dustin's Lyrics are amazing.

"I love this city, but i've set and numbered it's days
I love this city, enough that I'll set it ablaze."

[Scott Irvine]

Dustin's Lyrics are amazing.

"I love this city, but i've set and numbered it's days
I love this city, enough that I'll set it ablaze."

Those are amazing? Singing about setting cities on fire is terribly cliche.

[Scott Weber]

Those are amazing? Singing about setting cities on fire is terribly cliche.
Yeah, of all the lyrics to choose that's not the best one.

[thedondeluge]

Those are amazing? Singing about setting cities on fire is terribly cliche.


Along with the Story of the "The Arsonist" they are, and I know those aren't the best lyrics from that CD but those were the first lyrics off of the top of my head.

[Tom Good]

Great review Tom, can definitely tell that it was a beast to write.

I think this is a fantastic album, just how everything completely fits into the concepts or fire and water, but how the lyrics and music can still be applied to life in general. I love how Dustin varies his tone and style of singing to fit the particular song, and how the lyrics and the production fit so well. Like in Backdraft, how the verse literally sounds like fire suffocating and waiting to be re-introduced to the oxygen of the chorus, or in Night Diving, how the in-and-out echo of the intro guitar sounds like the ebb of the tide and the sway of the waves.

My favorite track from each EP would have to be The Messenger and The Whaler, because IMO they both completely embody the style of their respective element and lyrics, and are both very pleasing listens. My least favorites are Burn the Fleet, because I would rather it be harder and less melody oriented (even though it was written that way and perfectly fits the subject matter of the song), and Lost Continent, because it just seems to drag with little variation.

Overall, I really enjoy and appreciate each EP as a separate work of art. Fire is louder and harder, with more lyrical description, and Water is smoother and haunting, with briefer yet more profound lyrical content.

Wonderful album.Thanks bud! I'm glad you enjoyed the review! I agree on your favorite tracks. Those are great ones.