The Alchemy Index

Today's suggestion is actually 4 EPs, grouped by twos into two albums.

Album(s): The Alchemy Index Vols. I & II and The Alchemy Index Vols. III & IV
Artist: Thrice

The Alchemy Index is unlike anything I have ever heard. The concept behind it is four separate mini-albums, each themed like an element (fire, water, earth and air). But it goes far beyond the themed titles and lyrics. The instrumentation and feel of each song perfectly captures that of the element it's about.

The fire tracks are heavier and more of a hardcore-punk/post-metal style, a callback to Thrice's early days.
The water tracks are more muted and flowing, with soft lyrics, creating an ocean-like atmosphere.
The air tracks are somewhat reverbial and organic, if that makes sense.
The earth tracks are acoustic, recorded specially to sound extra rustic and grainy.

Some standout tracks include;
• Digital Sea (from Vols. I & II)
• Moving Mountains (from Vols. III & IV)
• Burn the Fleet (from Vols. I & II)
• Digging My Own Grave (from Vols. III & IV)

In short, The Alchemy Index is Thrice's attempt (and success) at a very unconventional and experimental release. The best word to describe it is quite simply, amazing.