Thrice - Major/Minor

Artist: Thrice
Album: Major/Minor
Release Date: September 20, 2011
Label: Vagrant Records

Chances are, if you've read any interviews or talked with any indie or hardcore bands over the past few bands, there's almost always one band that they all say influence them, and that always recurring band is none other than Thrice. Thrice have been constantly progressing through the years, from being a punk band early on, then moving into the post-hardcore scene (before it became over run with countless scene bands with auto-tuned vocals), and are now currently dwelling in indie rock, most notable over their past few albums, especially Beggars, and now on Major/Minor.

Although Major/Minor is still distinctively Thrice, do not just assume that it will be Beggars part two. While the two albums have similarities, Major/Minor finds the band really infusing past elements (not the heavier ones) with the indie rock grooves, for an overall great outcome. The songs on the album range from a more raw, aggressive side ("Blur") to big, melodious, rock songs, including "Anthology" and "Cataracts," the latter with a, dare I say it, soaring chorus, and still even a somber, more contemplative feel, especially on "Call It In The Air," which builds up to a chaotic ending, and emotional, passionate vocals from Dustin Kensrue.

Dustin Kensrue's lyrics are very deep as always, and show of a desperation. One of the best lyrical spots on the album comes on "Listen Through Me," and speaks of Jesus bearing the sins of the world on the cross, and pouring out His love for us. Other topics focus on things such as abuse, on "Yellow Belly." Kensrue's lyrics have always been one of Thrice's best aspects, and Major/Minor is no exception for that.

Overall: For a band that so many others are inspired by, it is no surprise that Thrice have once again put out another great album. Major/Minor truly finds the band honing in on their (now subtle) post-hardcore elements, with a much more melodic, indie, and almost alternative, rock sound. This album is musically a step up from Beggars, which I actually really enjoyed, so in saying that, Major/Minor is a very strong contender for album of the year. Do yourself a favor and go pick up this album, maybe even on vinyl. It's worth every penny.

Rating: 9.5/10

Reviewed by Brooks Ginnan

Tracklisting:

1. Yellow Belly
2. Promises
3. Blinded
4. Cataracts
5. Call It In The Air
6. Treading Paper
7. Blur
8. Words In The Water
9. Listen Through Me
10. Anthology
11. Disarmed

(Buy Here)