Portishead's latest effort, Third, is probably their most impressive so far. However, it is an album that requires attention from the listeners. Its sound is not immediate, however, repeated listens will reveal layers of emotions and sound, and it sounds better on each listen. To fans of Portishead is familiar, but Portishead also manages to create a completely new sounds which makes Third unique from the rest of their discography. The album is also varied while carrying a constant thread throughout. Some of the songs drone on, with intense beats and jagged guitars. Other flow more and feel softer and very emotional. Gibbson's voice does sound a bit different from the other two albums, but to great effect, and I feel this is her best effort.

It might at times be difficult to love, but repeated listens will open the album up, and continues to fascinate.

I concede that as some of the detractors of this album claim, it IS a noticeable departure from their previous two albums in terms of sound, but in many more ways it is the clear progression from those works, and a worthy successor. As someone else has stated; it will perhaps take a while to grow accustomed to the changes, but once your ear is adapted I don't think anyone should feel alienated by the content herein. In short; give it a go, 'cause it IS still Portishead, albeit evolved, not radicalised.

portishead, have they lost their title of music to have sex to? yeah but isnt this album just a piece of art. got to love it. anyone that thinks they have made a wrong move with this is very very wrong.