Third Development Present New Album 'The Thought of Tomorrow'
Third Development Present New Album 'The Thought of Tomorrow'
Third Development has been described as “lush, elegant, (and) ethereal,” and all three of these words most definitely fit the music found on the act’s debut album, The Though of Tomorrow. The release’s second song in, “Between the Lines,” is beautifully orchestrated. However, this orchestration is both Eastern and Western, as what sounds like Indian percussion, mixes unobtrusively with more classical elements.
This project’s title track kicks off the nine-song collection. While it, like much of the album, is decidedly mellow and melodic, it also includes layered, sweetly sung vocals. Canadian Geffrey James is the mastermind behind this elaborate project, but he works with vocalists and musicians from all around the world.
Lyrically, The Thought of Tomorrow is as illusive as it is introspective. This is exemplified by one called “Hidden Within,” which is sung by a female vocalist over a lightly percussive backing track. Just what the song is getting at, can only be found when looking within. “Stopping Time” is another track that incorporates ethnic percussion into its overall mysterious feel. It almost goes without saying that this album is cinematic. One called “Stopping Time” conjures up images of wide angle, scenic views on film.
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One of the album’s prettiest cuts is simply titled “Home.” Although it also includes orchestration and gentle vocals, it’s introduced with acoustic guitar. Much of the album is synthesizer-based, hearkening to the synthesizer heyday of the ‘80s. This one, however, mixes folk-ish musical elements in with its more electronic foundation.
Third Development is quiet enough for night music, yet deep enough for sincere study and contemplation. Yes, the act applies many familiar pop elements. However, it would be missing the point to categorize this project as mere pop. It’s an album that could only be created after extensive, reflective thought. Rather than focus on the baser elements of humankind, James and his collaborators have used music to help express more philosophical thoughts.
The Thought of Tomorrow makes a strong statement about the enduring validity of the full-length album. While Third Development releases singles (everybody does these days), a collection of single songs just wouldn’t do this music justice. This is an album that creates a mood; a mood that consistently stays true to its aims, from start to finish. Everything sounds to be connected, even though – unlike, say, classical music – there isn’t a recuring melodic theme. Instead, there is a consistent soundscape throughout. Each piece fits together, helping to create a fulfilling whole.
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The Bible tells us we are not promised tomorrow. Perhaps this is why the album title has a kind of speculative comment on the future. Tomorrow may be more of a concept than a reality. Then again, this album name might be speaking to the future in general. Heaven knows the current state of the world makes many believe a bright future is in serious doubt. Whatever the title means, the music clearly speaks for itself. And if the future of music sounds anything like Third Development, our troubled world looks far less troubling. It’s difficult to peg where Third Development fits into
the overall music scene. Maybe a better question is how the oftentimes harsh popular music world might apply a little more Third Development-like beauty to its overall approach. That alone should give you a few good thoughts about tomorrow.
-Dan MacIntosh
