
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
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.
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.