Customer Reviews

Glean

5 star:		(6)
4 star:		(2)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

Since Echobrain's debut in in 2002, the trio has provided many listeners with thier unique brand of alternative folk rock hybrid of music. After touring for the album, it was time for the group to head back into the studio to record a follow-up.

But since Jason Newsted, co-founder and bassist, left to persure a double bass gig with Ozzy Osborne and Vovoid, all bass duties are now manned by Adam Donkin, Dylan Donkin's brother. Perhaps Jason's departure is the reason why Glean is dark and moody (Although, Newsted is credited as Executive Producer on this record).

Musically, the group has grown since 2002, and it shows. While the group's debut album was a mixed bag of musical styles, Glean offers a more alternative edge, reminiscing bands like Soundgarden, Pearl Jam and even a hint of Pink Flyod's "Dark Side of the Moon". Even the lyrics are more down to earth and have a tone of loss and anger (Dylan's vocals on this album sound very close to that of Chris Cornell).

If you didn't like Ecobrain's first outing, Glean might just please you. Now that the guys have decided to stay in one format, surely this record will quickly become one of your favorites. If you are a Echobrain fan, perpare youself for a darker, more humble side of the group.

Of the 20-or-so CD's I've bought this year, this one stands out as my slam dunk favorite. Echobrain knows how to rock, but they also just plain know music.

Within the twelve tracks in Glean, their sound meanders between that of Pink Floyd, the Kinks, and even Radiohead. But even as I made mental comparisons to these bands while listening, I never got the sense they (Echobrain) were ripping anyone off, as they always manage to maintain their own edge.

Seems to me there's a crap load of bands getting a lot more attention than Echobrain ever did that aren't half as good.

Do yourself a favor and check this CD out.

The first Echobrain album was an unexpected find. More power to the listening booths at my music store, otherwise I would never have heard of it and consequently would probably not be writing this review of their second album.

This is a great CD. It eclipses their first one simply because the whole thing feels smooth and confident. I'd also rank this as one of the best releases this year. I really hope it does well for them as I look forward to another one from this very overlooked and talented band.

If you like the summer sounds of 'The Shore' or quieter moments of bands like 'Elbow' then check this one out.

I never would have said that Echobrain's first album was particularly heavy until listening to Glean. Newsted's absence from the creative process is apparent. On the other hand, it allows for some spectactular dynamics and songs that hide heaviness behind beautiful sounds. "You're Sold" and "Heroic Dose" are a microcosm of this album--heavier sections and big guitars combining with soft, warbling vocals and a swirling sound, constantly backed by outstanding drumming.
Not like much music out there in that Echobrain still refuses to be pigeonholed. That's not even criticizing other bands, but rather an admiration of their versatility.

Fantastic album, ubelievable melodies along with mind blowing vocals. Still as unique and unlike anything I've ever heard. The first album blew me away, almost every song on that album has become embedded in my mind and after one listen to Glean my brain is on overload. IF you haven't purchased this cd, I believe it to be a wise addition to any rock lovers collection. I give mucho props to Donkin and the rest of the crew for hanging in there after the departure of Newsted, but that's his loss because Voivod sucks. Sad decision on his part just like leaving Metallica. Echobrain and Glean will move you in such a way that you'll never be the same after listening to it.

This album is incredible. When I heard that Jason Newsted had left the band, I was very skepticle about whether I would like this CD. After the first listen, I was amazed. I can't stop listening to it. This album puts there first album to shame. Don't get me wrong, the debut was good, but it doesn't stand close to the intensity of this album. There may not be a better CD to release all year(not even the new Nine Inch Nails). If you like Soundgarden, Pink Floyd, The Beatles, Radiohead, Alice in Chains, or the Foo Fighters, then this CD is for you. It mixes hints of these bands beautifuly while keeping its own edge. Buy this CD the next time you are itching for great new music. You won't be disappointed.

i got this album and went straight to the CD player, popped it in and enjoyed the best album i've heard in a long time. Imagine Jar of Flies(Alice in Chains) and Superunknown(Soundgarden)mixed together with a dash of Bob Dylan folkiness. The musicianship is incredible, make no mistakes, these guys can play. The only problem I have with the album is that you really can't hear the vocals that well, almost like they forgot to add them in until the last minute and ran out of available volume. They're almost muddled in spots, not as clear as they were on their self-titled debut, but with much stronger musical chops. I hope this band does well, so that Newsted kicks himself for jumping ship to join up with Voivod(what a joke, worse excuse for a band, like a poor mans dream theatre or something--they wicked suck)Anyway, great record, super musicians, if you enjoyed the first, you'll have to enjoy the second.

Since Jason Newsted departure, this peculiar band have experimented changes, if Newsted provided maybe a 20% of heavy sound in their first cd now this 20% has becoming just a 10% heavy, now they sound a lot more alternative and even more funny than before, this band needed to take more seriously this direction , after all Jason cant deny his love for Metal and returned to it with Voivod , and theres a number of side projects he has achieved such as "Pappawheelie" punk style, "IR8" kinda Sepultura sound and the trash project "Sexoturica" all this projects with the collaboration of very well known musicians like tom hunting from Exodus, Devin Towsend from Straping Young Lad, and andreas kisser from sepultura (awesome cds all this by the way im so happy i own) , for this reason Echobrain now without Jason on bass have released "Glean" interesting album
HM