Thrice - "Doublespeak" (2009)

Thrice have come a long way in their 10 years together. What started out as a hardcore band playing heavy songs at breakneck speed with plenty of double kick drum has morphed into a band that borrows from all subgenres of rock to create something really unique. Frontman Dustin Kensrue has grown increasingly confident in his vocal ability with each release, trading the screaming delivery of albums past for a more rootsy, gravelly vocal style when needed. That’s not to say he can’t still growl with the best of them. That was evident on the Fire disc of Thrice’s four part Alchemy Index project released in 2007 and 2008. The scope of that project was so broad that Thrice felt the need to become more focused for their next release. So they opted to self produce their new record and record it in their practice space turned studio with guitarist Teppei Teranishi behind the boards. The result is the 10 song Beggars, an album that showcases all of the things Thrice have learned to do well together. While touching on a lot of areas explored in the softer moments of The Alchemy Index, Beggars is still a very heavy record. The guitars hit with a distinct crunch and the overall sound is more organic and raw and less polished. The album was originally set for an October release but was pushed up due to an unforeseen leak of the record. It was released digitally in early August and the physical version will be in stores tomorrow. The CD version will include b-sides and remixes as well as a cover of The Beatles’ “Helter Skelter” that I am very curious to hear. I honestly expected Thrice to wait a bit longer after The Alchemy Index to make another record but they’ve proved that they didn’t need an extra time to create something great. I haven’t fully been able to soak this one up as much as I would’ve liked. However, if I had to pick a standout track it would today’s song. “Doublespeak” features an interesting piano lines as well as one of the best hooks on the record. I recommend checking out Beggars and definitely get the CD version for all of the bonus material.


Thrice - "Doublespeak"