Thrice, based in Irvine, Calif., has moved away from its post-hardcore label and into the realm of progressive and experimental rock in Volumes 1 and 2 of a double-disc release, The Alchemy Index, aptly named Fire and Water.
This is the first half of a long-awaited, elemental themed, follow-up to Thrice’s previous mainstream washout Vheissu.
Picking up where Vheissu left off, and learning from its shortcomings, Thrice has managed to create a voluptuous world within the realms of The Alchemy Index, masterfully establishing its wealth of musical talent and diversity. Each disc showcases this exciting new realm while clearly embodying the element represented.
Fire starts off this masterpiece with the eerie, alarm-like wailings of the anthem “Firebreather” features powerful guitars, haunting sounds and the familiar vocals of lead singer Dustin Kensrue.
“The Arsonist” is a heavier tune that displays one of the more progressive transformations of Thrice while proving that the band can still pull off energetic music. There is a comfortable unity between the various talents of Kensrue, guitarist Teppei Teranishi, bassist Eddie Breckenridge and drummer Riley Breckenridge.
“Burn the Fleet” also shows a more musically mature side of the band and is truly exemplary of the members’ diversity. Despite being a little softer than the other songs, “Burn the Fleet” is not out of place on Fire and provides a perfect transition into the blazing lament, “The Flame Deluge.” The song, which recalls the fire bombings of Guernica and Dresden during World War II, completes the CD.
The second disc, Water, is immediately distinguishable from its counterpart by the more soothing sounds of “Digital Sea.” Displaying a different side of the band, this song seems to be a commentary on the pace of life in a digital age and is an indication of the overall tone of the rest of the second disc.
“The Whaler” is a beautiful ballad of longing and love. A soft and steady piano supports Kensrue and drummer Breckendridge as they weave a tale of leaving and being missed. This magnificent track reveals the tender side of Thrice and is a magnificent musical achievement.
The best song, by far, is the intriguing instrumental “Night Diving.” If any proof were needed that this band had evolved throughout the course of its existence, “Night Diving” provides it. Starting off with a steady rhythm, “Night Diving” has the power to enchant and hypnotize. The track is the best representation of the artistic range of Thrice, everything from simple ambience to seemingly menacing guitar is present. Add a slight ethereal interlude in the middle and this song is oddly reminiscent of Pink Floyd’s psychedelic trip, “Echoes.”
Both volumes of The Alchemy Index provide more than songs; they provide an experience that is difficult to see end.
Obviously, an exceptional achievement, both Fire and Water leave listeners desperately awaiting the completion of the somewhat distant April release of Vols. 3 and 4: Earth and Air.
