Comments
One word : Amazing
Thrice
The Alchemy Index Vols. III•IV
Air & Earth finish off the four volume set know as The Alchemy Index. This is supposed to express and reflect the more ambient and organic sides of the band. It’s insane that a band can break down its repertoire into four separate categories, but looking back into their catalog reveals that they indeed can embody these distinct styles – and do them well. Vheissu’s “The Earth Will Shake” and “Atlantic” back to back performances serve as a hint as to how well they can tackle a stripped down, rootsy vibe one minute, and an airy, floating and vocal one the next. Adding to the complexity of their masterful breakdown of their artistic elements, the songs are bound by thematic and lyrical similarities. Air speaks of flying, breathing, the sky and the wind. Earth takes on dirt, graves and animals. A couple of gems for believers and seekers to mull over are found in “Moving Mountains,” which expounds on the theme Paul discussed in his “love chapter” and the persuasive words of Christ in “Come All You Weary.” This collection is a keeper on all levels. [Vagrant] Doug Van Pelt
This album review was originally published in the May/June Issue (#131) of HM Magazine. You can order the Print Version of this issue online or find this issue on newsstands. You can NOW read this entire feature in the online edition of HM Magazine. If you're a subscriber, you get a free online/digital subscription with your print subscription. If you're a subscriber and you don't have or misplaced your password, give us an email and we'll get you that info. You can purchase a single online/digital edition (which includes access to back issues) for only $1.99. A one-year digital-only subscription can be had for only $6.
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