Initially launched as a solo post-rock blueprint by Buffalo-based multi-instrumentalist Josh Martin—renowned for his emotive and cinematic soundscapes—Thought Trials released its early records in this format up until 2023. The project carved a distinct space within the atmospheric and introspective realms of the genre, drawing comparisons to acts like Caspian, Pillars, If These Trees Could Talk, and Solkyri.
On spring 2024, Martin released ‘This Has Always Been With You’ – that he entirely written, performed, and mixed by himself – through POST. RECORDINGS (Glacier, Hubris, I Hear Sirens, Tacoma Narrows Bridge Disaster…). A deeply personal album shaped by his experience with a brain cancer diagnosis and treatment. Spanning eight instrumental tracks, the record explores themes of vulnerability, mortality, and personal transformation with lead single “Oligo” capturing the emotional and physical upheaval of that time, while tracks like “Palinopsia”, “Dendro” and “Glioma” delve into key moments from Martin’s medical journey.
Later that year, Thought Trials evolved into a full band with the addition of Adam Summers, Zack Schoedel, and Chris Wall, expanding both its sonic depth and collaborative energy. Then, the newly formed lineup debuted with the self-released two-track EP ‘EARTHRISE//GAIA’, further exploring ambient and post-metal textures.
More than just ‘another’ post-rock band, Thought Trials blends stark emotional resonance with expansive instrumental arrangements to deliver a cathartic listening experience—capturing both the chaos and clarity that surface in moments of personal reckoning.
