Blending crushing riffs and heavy rhythms, World Times Three’s debut album, In Hearts and Stone, is a lesson in how to create mesmerising post-rock music that is equal parts 90s grunge and 90s rock.
The mastermind behind it all is St. Louis rock veteran Mark Cooper (of Kilverez and Runoff) and the album channels a raw intensity and a moody finesse that showcases Mark’s multi-instrumental talents. Handling guitar, bass, keys, drum programming, and backing vocals, one can hear Mark’s ability to create a cohesive and dynamic sound that is enthralling and hypnotising.
Like many artists during the pandemic, Mark created In Hearts and Stone during the period of isolation and introspection many of us faced. The album navigates the complex emotions of grief and joy, often intertwining them in a way that feels both overwhelming and beautiful. But the album is also a celebration of a dear friend and musical brother to Mark who lost his battle with cancer.
While primarily an instrumental, In Hearts and Stone features three tracks with genuine vocals that adds a sonic depth to its fervent landscape. John Lancaster from Chum lends his voice to “Transmissions” that creates a hauntingly beautiful contrast to the heavy instrumentation while Jeremy Cayton of Hybrid Zero graces “Til the Robins Come” and “You’re Going to Carry This Weight” and infuses both with a touching and melodic edge.
With its soaring melodies and harmonies, In Hearts and Stone is not only about perseverance, but a brief escape from life’s burdens.
