Although synthesizers and catchy beats are MIA in a new album I picked up recently, the acoustic instrumentation of Irvine-based alternative band Thrice is more than enough to compensate. Thought-provoking lyrics add to the band’s sixth album, Beggars‘s appeal.
Thrice’s new project, released Aug. 11, have many inspirational qualities: the band speaks through their music by creating intellectual lyrics. Beyond the guitar riffs and strong, steady rhythms, they aim to speak to the listener’s conscience. Though the words are often ambiguous, I believe their music changes lives.
“All the World is Mad,” brings back memories of their old metal-like sound from 2001, but it is mixed underneath lead singer Dustin Kenrue’s soft crooning and intricate guitar. The lyrics are intriguing: “All the world is mad/Darkness brings terrible things; the sun is gone/What vanity! our sad, wretched fires.” Despite the dark overtones of the piece, the doom-and-gloom lyrics have a purpose, as they aim to bring listeners truth.
Another gem in this album is “The Weight.” The passionate lyrics and dynamic arrangement work perfectly together and, as a result, I sing it all the time. Kenrue pours his heart out into his words, making it a relatable song.
The two best compositions on Beggars are “Circles” and “The Great Exchange.” The first is quiet and acoustic, the guitar melody set aside to avoid distracting the listener from everything else. The second is also exposed, but fills out as the song continues. The guitar- and cymbal-heavy background compliment the vocals, which completes the balance.
The only disappointment with this record, albeit minor, is “At the Last.” Although well-written, it failed to immediately spark my interest. The instrumentation sounded bland and the words were hidden because the music over-powered it. The order of events seems a bit unorganized, but after the 10th or 12th listen, I have accepted and enjoyed its unusual style.
Overall, Beggars is spectacular through both its message and music. There is no competition for its gentle instrumentation and thought-provoking lyrics.
