Thrice – Vheissu

Going Once, Going Twice

Thrice is a band that has been around for what seems like forever. Without a doubt, they have helped mold what is popular in independent music today. However, instead of sticking with a traditional formula, Thrice’s latest venture, Vheissu, is a journey into new waters, proving their musical maturity throughout.While the opening track “Image of the Invisible” sounds similar to their previous album, The Artist In The Ambulance, by the third track “The Earth Will Shake,” new directions emerge. Instead of pure aggression, it’s reserved — similar to Cave-In, or daresay, Staind. While the tune does not get the push that Thrice is known for, the build-up is intense and satisfying.

“Atlantic” pours into the listeners’ ears subtly, akin to the psychological horror-genre Silent Hill videogame series of soundtracks. Melancholy, moody, and multilayered are the best ways to describe it, as well as many other tracks on the album. Even when Thrice is playing the subtlety card, they know when to press on and play hard, making sure nothing is taken for granted.

Thrice doesn’t forget their roots though. “Hold Fast Hope” is brutal, with intricate guitars contrasting with Dustin Kensrue’s mix of singing and yelling. Other songs such as “Like Moths To Flame” give us beautiful melodies with dark, destructive choruses that further expand their boundaries.

To end this beautiful piece of audio, Thrice goes away with “Red Sky.” The utilization of electronic sounding instrumentation throughout is beautiful, making the traditional drums, bass, and guitar arrangement much more powerful.

Not a group to rest on their laurels, Thrice has outdone themselves on Vheissu. They pour every ounce of feeling into the whole album, without sounding cliché.