This band needs to be played, and played loud. That isn’t to say that this EP is without delicacy, because there is enough melody, harmony and pop hooks strewn throughout the five tracks to satisfy those who aren’t into the edgier pop rock, but there is a dynamo of power surging under the surface of The Third Cycle, and to appreciate it, you just have to turn it up.
Brand New opens the affair, and from the get go we are introduced to front-woman Jess Donnellan’s powerful, forceful yet soft vocals. Pressing Sound, the title track, is a rocking little belter, with allusions to Scandinavian metal, but oh so pop rock. This juxtaposition may confuse some listeners, but to the adventurous soul, it is rewarding to say the least. The Goodbye Song can stand toe to toe with anything Evenescence has produced, and come out on top. Subtitles & Silence is a fun, delicate and dynamic song. Spheres close the EP and is sure to become a live favorite. It is the longest track on the disc, and has all the markings of a fan favorite.
When I first heard this band I thought ‘There’s something special going on here”. After listening to their debut, I am certain of it. The Third Cycle are heavy enough to satisfy the rockers, yet easily accessible. The vocal palette of Jess Donnellan lures the listener in, while the rhythm section, bassist Clint Ossington and Drummer JB not only provide a steady and versatile backbone, but also pummel you into submission if you put up too much resistance. The riffs and fills of guitarist Matt Dobson cut through the mix like a surgeons blade, yet never with excessive force. Like a surgeon, he knows just the right amount of pressure to apply so as to not destroy surrounding tissue.
I urge you all to check this band out, buy Pressing Sound and play it.
Play it loud.
Track Listing
1. Brand New
2. Pressing Sound
3. The Goodbye Song
4. Subtitles & Silence
5. Spheres
