Grizzly Bear delivers another winning single with “Three Rings,” ahead of their long-awaited comeback album, ‘Painted Ruins.’

Five-year hiatuses seem to be the rage these days.  Why? Not sure. Alternative rock collective Grizzly Bear returns after a ‘beary’ long break with a new album, Painted Ruins. Painted Ruins marks the band’s first album for RCA. Yep, indie going major.  Ahead of Painted Ruins, four singles were issued: “Mourning Sound,” “Four Cypresses,” “Three Rings,” and “Neighbors.”

“Three Rings” commences with a bold musical sound.  That bold musical sound includes hard-hitting drums, with bass, keyboards, and guitar entering shortly.  It differs from “Four Cypresses,” where the identity and direction of the track is questioned initially. Vocalist Ed Droste enters into the picture too, delivering a lush, relaxed vocal performance.  Vocal harmonies sweeten an already appealing sound, painting the backdrop magnificently.

There is plenty of time allowed for the music to shine itself.  There are a sufficient number of lyrics and vocals, but Grizzly Bear also embraces instruments and sounds sans vocals.  While the music shines, the lyrics and theme of “Three Rings” shouldn’t be ignored.  Droste and company seem to tackle a dysfunctional, on-and-off again relationship.

“Will you move on again? / See that time to flee again / You always make it alright / Is that the way it is? / Let’s get along again / You know your move around the bend.”

Final Thoughts

All in all, “Three Rings” gives Grizzly Bear yet another winner ahead of Painted Ruins.  The music continues to shine, Droste delivers sensational vocals, and the theme and respective lyrics are on-point.  Sure, there are more poetic songs out there, but “Three Rings” works soundly.

Grizzly Bear • Painted Ruins • RCA • Release: 8.18.17

Photo Credit: RCA