The Thermals: A Contradiction in RockThe Thermals: A Contradiction in Rock
The Thermals are a straightforward yet unique rock threesome from the Pacific Northwest. Their latest -- The Body, The Blood, The Machine -- is one of my favorite albums right now. It's got great hooks, powerful and unique vocals and a very unique perspective. It's a "sort of" concept album and it's made great by some powerful contradiction, not only in the lyrics but in the sound itself.
It's blunt yet subtle, accessible yet hardly mainstream, complex yet stripped down and gloomy yet upbeat all at the same time.
I've not had the pleasure of seeing them live, but I hear they're great. Given the raw nature of the sound, I can see it translating to an awesome live act.
CMJ Performances:
Thursday 11/2 @ Bowery Ballroom; 11pm; Sold-out Subpop Showcase (though badges can get in)
Friday 11/3 @ Fontanas; 4:45pm; Free show by BrooklynVegan (no badge needed)
Friday 11/3 @ Studio B; Headlining ProductShopNYC Showcase (so late at night)
