The Pineapple Thief breaks out of their comfort zone and strikes a chord with fans in stunning new release
Founded a quarter of a century ago by Bruce Soord as a solo project, The Pineapple Thief has evolved into a quartet that continues to push boundaries in their latest album, It Leads To This. Prog caught up with Bruce, drummer Gavin Harrison, and bassist Jon Sykes to delve into the cathartic experience behind the creation of their new record.
Despite their long day in rehearsals for an upcoming tour, the band members maintain a lighthearted atmosphere in the studio. Bruce shares how Gavin’s straightforward feedback adds a unique dynamic to their recording sessions. The band’s collaborative spirit shines as they aim to elevate their live performances to match their evocative recordings.
Reflecting on their 25-year journey, Bruce divides The Pineapple Thief’s history into distinct phases, noting the significant changes that have shaped their sound over time. With It Leads To This marking their fourth studio album together, the band feels invigorated by the fresh dynamics at play.
The album’s creation process took an unconventional turn as Bruce and Gavin opted for a more hands-on, co-writing approach in the same room, departing from their usual digital file exchange. This change injected a new energy into their songwriting, pushing them out of their comfort zones and inspiring collaborative growth.
While the band members acknowledge the challenges of writing together as a full group, they find value in both their individual and collective approaches. The synergy between Bruce, Gavin, Steve, and Jon results in a dynamic sound that reflects their evolution into a tightly knit musical unit.
Despite the intense nature of crafting It Leads To This, the band members pursued excellence at every turn, ensuring that each track reached its full potential. Bruce’s introspective lyrics, inspired by personal reflection and worldly observations, offer a poignant narrative that speaks to the current state of affairs.
Gavin’s intricate rhythmic patterns, coupled with the band’s melodic backdrop, create a distinctive musical landscape that complements Bruce’s lyrical depth. The band’s collective push towards innovation and authenticity shines through in their latest release, resonating with listeners on a profound level.
As The Pineapple Thief celebrates their 25th year, they continue to explore new territories in sound and storytelling, proving that their creative journey is far from over. With a message of empowerment and change woven into their music, the band invites fans to join them on a cathartic musical experience that transcends boundaries and resonates with the soul.
