Note: This is the trip-hop legends’ first studio album since 1997’s self-titled release.
Sound: It’s less electronic and groove-oriented than their ‘90s output, but it’s equally as creepy and unsettling. Beth Gibbons haunting howls and wails meet up with a bold array of styles made with mostly organic (as opposed to synthetic and sampled) instruments. Galloping gloom, torturous reflection, tribal atmosphere, bombastic industrial, hypnotic psychedelic and even folky acoustic are some of the many moods on Third.
Heavy Rotation tracks: “Threads”; “Silence”; “Nylon Smile”; “We Carry On”
Medium Rotation tracks: “Magic Doors”; “Plastic”; “Machine Gun”
Recommended: The lack of a consistent vibe and the fearless musical experimentation make this a challenging listen for sure. At times, it can be downright uncomfortable. But if you spend some with Third, you’ll be impressed by Portishead’s masterful innovation and execution.
Grade: A- (Top 20 Albums of 2008 Candidate)

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