Third Day

    Third Day

    Marietta, Georgia28 reviews across 8 releases

    Third Day is an Atlanta Christian rock band formed in 1991 by Mac Powell and Mark Lee. Its early sound combined Southern rock with melodic pop-rock songwriting and direct Christian lyrics, while its live reputation rested on a forceful singalong attack. The 1996 debut drew comparisons to Hootie and the Blowfish, Pearl Jam, and Counting Crows, but reviews also noted acoustic textures beside the grunge references. The 1997 Conspiracy No. 5 grew more aggressive through distorted guitars and thicker production, while Powell's writing became more confessional. On 1999's Time, the band stripped the arrangements back and emphasized its Southern roots. The circle-playing sessions gave it a relaxed feel, while its simple melodies and worshipful tone moved away from the darker mood of the previous record.

    Brad Avery left in 2008, and later departures by Tai Anderson and David Carr reduced the group to its founding core before the farewell tour. After Offerings had made worship central to the band's public identity, Third Day continued recording and touring through the 2000s and 2010s, with Powell remaining its principal singer and songwriter. The band announced its farewell tour in 2018 and played its final scheduled shows that June. Powell then pursued solo work and formed Mac Powell and the Family Reunion, while Lee continued as a solo songwriter and author. In 2026, the four longtime members reunited for a 30th-anniversary tour. Third Day is active again as a touring band.

    8 releases reviewed