Reviewed by Ben Martin

Taking a step away from the post-hardcore sound of their previous studio albums, Thrice have made a huge gamble in the release of 'The Alchemy Index', a four part concept on the subject of the four natural elements. Thankfully, this has paid off, and the first two parts, 'Fire' and 'Water', only edify their presence as eminent songwriters and musicians. Split into two discs, the first ('Fire'), is a six track barrage of power, bringing Thrice into realms of intensity which they have not touched before. Standout tracks being "The Messenger" and "Burn The Fleet", the lyrics are easily interpretable with many different meanings applicable, including that of the whole concept being a description of different aspects of God's character. The second disc, 'Water', is a huge departure from the strength and immensity of 'Fire' and is reminiscent of bands such as Radiohead in musical style. Riley Breckenridge's drums are replaced on opener "Digital Sea" with an electronic, clipped drum sound and vocally, 'Water' is much more laid back and calming. With such a contrast, Thrice have done well to distinguish between the character of the two elements conceptually, musically and lyrically. This is a fantastic digression which stands to mark Thrice as a hugely qualified band with a concept under their belts.