Third

Third is a 1970 double LP by Soft Machine characterized by four extended, side-length pieces that move away from conventional song structures toward extended instrumental exploration. The music blends jazz improvisation and harmonic complexity with progressive and psychedelic textures, featuring organ, saxophone, bass and drums and occasional vocals within loosely composed suites. The album is often cited as a key moment in the band's shift into jazz-rock and experimental progressive territory and reflects the exploratory spirit of the Canterbury scene.