The Three Calamities

by Heather PharesWith 1999's The Three Calamities, Switchblade Symphony continue their evolution into one of darkwave's most open-minded and far-sighted groups. Jazzy and electronic elements sculpt deep grooves into songs like "Invisible" and "Copycat," while "Naked Birthday" and "Therapy" update the group's faster, more accessible style. Delicate pieces like "Monsters" and "Anmorata" show off Susan Wallace's compositional skills, and Tina Root's versatile vocals heighten the theatricality of "Wicked" and "Fear." The Three Calamities builds on Switchblade Symphony's prior musical successes and puts them ahead of the curve, resulting in the group's most interesting and accomplished album.