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Genre: post-hardcore, experimental rock Check Out: “Backdraft,” “The Whaler,” “Digital Sea,” and “Firebreather.”  myspace |
This album marks a divergence from Thrice’s past of post-hardcore and alternative rock to electronic-tinged experimental rock. The concept of the four volumes of the Alchemy Index* is simple – six songs that reflect their respective element, with the last song a poem set to music. The true mistake in this album was how the elements are divided. Volume 1: Fire and Volume 2: Water do not compliment each other in any way sonically; that is only to be expected theoretically but in reality makes for a jarring album. If they’d only waited until all four parts were done, this would have been hailed as the best album of the year by many critics. As it is, though, it will probably be summarily ignored.
To do the music justice, I’m going to review and rate each volume separately.
Volume 1: Fire
Rating: 
Thrice’s mastery of post-hardcore didn’t make this volume as much of a surprise. Vheissu proved that they knew all about ‘fiery’ music, and they don’t disappoint here. “Backdraft,” however, is a pleasant surprise in that it flickers between quiet and cacophony like a candle’s flame. Otherwise, the rest of this volume blisters nicely.
Volume 2: Water
Rating: 
This, by far, is my favorite of the two volumes. Here is where the jarring difference comes between Thrice’s past and present, because this entire album is electronically-influenced. There is nothing earthy or remotely discordant in their smooth interpretation of this element. Of course, one could argue that water isn’t always so peaceful, but even that is alluded to in “Night Diving.” Not only is this an accurate portrayal of the element, but all six songs blend in perfectly together. “The Whaler” is lead singer/songwriter Dustin Kensrue at his very best.
*The other two volumes, Air and Earth, will be released on April 15th, 2008.
