Thirdstory Members, Gear & Sound

Thirdstory is a dynamic trio hailing from New York City, comprised of singer/songwriters Ben Lusher, Richard Saunders, and Elliott Skinner. Formed in 2015, the group fuses elements of soul, folk, R&B, and indie pop, drawing inspiration from artists such as Sam Smith, Drake, and Fleet Foxes. Known for their lush three-part harmonies and evocative songwriting, Thirdstory initially gained popularity through their YouTube channel, where they performed intricate covers of popular songs. Their debut EP Searching and full-length album Cold Heart, produced by Grammy-winner Malay, showcase their ability to craft emotionally resonant and sonically rich music.

Thirdstory's sound is characterized by its smooth, emotive vocal harmonies and layered instrumental textures. Their music often leans towards a clean and melodic sound, with an emphasis on vocal clarity and dynamic range. Elliott Skinner's use of the Gibson Hummingbird and Epiphone Masterbilt DR-500MCE contributes to their warm, acoustic tones, while Richard Saunders' Nord Stage 2 88-Key Stage Keyboard adds rich, soulful layers. The combination of acoustic and digital elements provides a foundation that is both grounded and expansive, allowing their harmonies to shine against a backdrop that resonates with emotional depth.