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The Portishead complexity became ever so clear with the release of 'Third'. It was their first studio album in 10 years and at first listen, it can be a little confusing or even off-putting. The static laden samples and sluggish scratching are gone, and most electronic effects have been pushed into a warmly analog moog and theremin role. However, patience and a little faith reveal 'Third' to be a work of sublime subtlety and dynamic depression easily on par with its critically adored predecessors. Tracks such as "
Threads" and "
Machine gun" are audible proof that Portishead's sound has evolved into something greater than ever. Amazing in every way!
I purchased this box set pre-order from Portishead's
online store back when it was released.