Music Review: 3RDEYEGIRL, Plectrumelectrum

By Tyler Hodg

In music, collaboration can often bring out the best in songwriters.The first offering from 3RDEYEGIRL features none other than Prince, who at this point is basically an honorary member of the band (4THEYEGIRLBOY?). Stylistically different than Art Official Age—Prince’s album featuring 3RDEYEGIRL which was released on the same day—Plectrumelectrum is a fairly straightforward rock album, with a few surprises sprinkled in. Ever wondered what Prince would sound with a hard rock band? Here’s your answer!

Hitting you hard right out of the gate, Plectrumelectrum opens with the appropriately titled “Wow.” The song sets the tone for what’s to come and acquaints you with 3RDEYEGIRL’s style, which can easily be described as fully-fledged funk-hard rock. Other than “Stopthistrain,” all of the songs on Plectrumelectrum sound like they belong where they are. “Stopthistrain” has too strong of an R&B vibe to be featured on the album, and would have been better suited on Art Official Age.

Comparing Plectrumelectrum with Art Official Age would be silly, however. The only similarities come from the musicians who played on them and the song “Funk’n’Roll.” Seeing life on both albums, “Funk’n’Roll” gets two substantially different arrangements. Art Official Age’s version is more hip hop-influenced, while Plectrumelectrum’s version sounds exactly how you think it would: a little funky and a little rocking.

The greatest feat of the album is that Prince’s influence is apparent, but never overpowering. Plectrumelectrum truly sounds like a 3RDEYEGIRL album featuring Prince, not the other way around. His contribution to the record adds new elements and layers to the music, but 3RDEYEGIRL still shines through in their own right. It’s not only a testament to the talent of 3RDEYEGIRL, but also to Prince’s ability to be any type of musician he chooses to be.

Plectrumelectrum has not only made Prince fresh again, but has made 3RDEYEGIRL relevant. It may not be the album of the year, but Plectrumelectrum is nothing to sneeze at; it’s a fun rock album that sounds undeniably new. If 3RDEYEGIRL can follow this record up with another killer effort, they will be able to solidify themselves as a band to be reckoned with. Plectrumelectrum leaves you optimistic for future releases from both 3RDEYEGIRL and Prince, whether they choose to collaborate together again or not.

Plectrumelectrum was released on September 30 through NPG Records/Warner Bros. Records.