Despite the simplicity of its name, the progressive metal band three (also known as 3) is by no means simple. “The End is Begun” is a complex and appealing release that has an intensity that grows with each song. “The End is Begun” blends progressive rock, pop and metal, among other genres, with dark melodic vocals, resulting in a striking, standout release.
Before even giving “The End is Begun” a first listen, the listener’s interest will probably be peaked by the cover’s distinct artwork.
Originally released in the summer of 2007, Three is set to re-release “The End Is Begun” on Metal Blade Records on Feb. 19. The re-release includes a bonus track, the Pink Floyd cover “See Emily Play.”
Based in Woodstock, N.Y., Three is Joey Eppard (vocals, acoustic and electric guitar), The Gartdrumm (drums, backing vocals), Billy Riker (electric guitar), Joe Stote (percussion, keys) and Daniel Grimsland (bass, backing vocals).
Despite some very dark lyrics throughout most points, “The End is Begun” is overwhelmingly upbeat. Three received some assistance from Jerry Marotta, who offered his famous drum collection and studio, where the band recorded “The End is Begun.”
In 2003, Three began nationally touring with Coheed & Cambria, an act similar in its prog-rock style. Fans of bands such as Coheed & Cambria and Porcupine Tree will surely take to Three. Despite similar styles, listeners might find Eppard’s’ voice to be a bit more likeable and listenable than those of his tourmates. Eppard has a strong yet attractively fragile voice that could easily be transferable across many genres of music.
From the start, “The End is Begun” starts off on an upbeat note with “The Word Is Born of Flame,” which begins with a passionate and technically relentless guitar that does not lessen in its force through the remainder of the album.
Even though the album’s lyrics are menacing in nature, nearly every song is infectiously catchy, and listeners might not instantly pick up on the more gloomy undertones of each track. One song that is definitely a standout is “All That Remains.” It is one of those songs that you’ll find yourself singing along to even though you have never heard it before.
Since its formation in the 1990s, Three has never followed the standard format established by other rock and metal outfits. Its unique and experimental style sets it apart in many ways. However, given the overall allure of “The End is Begun,” the distinctive style is a refreshing change.
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