Fans of the Grip Weeds, of which there are many, are advised to take note of this band. Not only because Kurt Reil of the Grip Weeds moonlights in Third of Never, but they’re also great in their own right.
The other equally talented members of Third of Never feature Jon Dawson, CJ Grogan, Vince Grogan and Mike Polilli, while Dennis Diken of the Smithereens and John “Rabbit” Bundrick, whose list of accomplishments includes Free, the Who and Eric Burdon – to mention just a few famed figures – stage guest appearances here on the band’s new album.
Hard-edged pop is the main thrust of Downrising (JAM Records), enhanced by occasional voyages into psychedelic summer-land and progressive-rock realms. A swirling funnel of grinding guitars, partnered with lively keyboard flourishes characterizes the material. The vocals are gritty and brash, and the harmonies are catchy and aggressive.
A paralyzing pairing of surging rhythms and hip-hugging melodies make up tracks such as “Automat,” “On My Way,” “So Long” and “Phaedra,” and then there’s the Badfinger-ish power pop of “Yellow House,” which transpires into a hypnotic space age instrumental that recalls prime Pink Floyd.
Heavy enough for metal heads and hooky enough for pop fiends, Third of Never’s Downrising possesses a radio-friendly quality that shimmers and sizzles with intuitive and inspired songwriting and musicianship.
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