THREE
THE END IS BEGUN
METAL BLADE RECORDS

The 5th album from the Woodstock quintet is very impressive in both its ferocity and strange syncopation. - Chris Goodson

The End is Begun is a funky mish mash of the sensibilities of progressive rock and blend of funky acoustic tirades. Three has been around longer than one would think, but with this album they truly deserve the attention that has overlooked them in the past. The vocal styling of lead singer Joey Eppard is reminiscent of Geddy Lee, a voice that is high pitched and shrill (in the best way possible), but never overstays it's welcome and the band employs a sharp percussive atmosphere that elevates the bass, keyboard, guitars and vocals to a concussive crescendo in every track.

The excellence of each band member's performance comes through and you get the sense that you are listening to a jazz band actually create and improvise on the spot. Though seeing them live is truly amazing. I saw them play with both the Scorpions and Dream Theater (Progressive Nation '08) and each time I was blown away and truly left wanting more. However, the sound quality of the album itself has some issues and regardless of what system I played it on, I still noticed muddied vocals and a neglected mix that at times was frustrating. But, alas you can see past these minor nitpicks, that few will probably even notice, then you are in for a treat. There are many standout tracks on this album including the title track and "These Iron Bones" in particular. Three is a talented band that should be listened to and now. They do not put up any fancy tricks to amplify their stage presence yet they still have a tremendous lasting effect. The energy and enthusiasm of the music transcends to the listener much faster and smoother than a lot of recent efforts in the genre, but maybe that is because Three constantly defies their own classification. It's good, damn good. Now go Listen.

The Special Edition comes with a DVD of music videos and concert segments

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