Track 1- Edward Teach
The beginning of this tune has a Boston, the band, quality
with a techno edge ala Pink Floyd. When the vocals from Gina join the mix the
transition has a Fleetwood Mac and ABBA quality with a more intense bottom end
and much wilder color. The song has a certain 80's essence which can not be
denied with strong Pop influences bleeding through. ( ! ! ! ! )
Track 2- Heart of Stone
The guitar work on this song is expertly crafted and
performed coming in forceful phrases. The tight percussionist masterfully
executes the complex time changes. The melody sounds all too familiar, coming
from an era, the 80's, when the cut-out bins in record stores were always
filled with bands that never quite made the charts. ( ! ! ! )
Track 3- The Prey of Nantahala Lake
As a music critic one is always searching for the next
"hot" group that will equal the Beatles. But truth be known there
will never be another band to equal their status. A band has to create a unique
sound and they have to have a hook, this song is one which lacks in both of
these characteristics. Performed superbly by all of the musicians makes for an
interesting presentation, but interesting is not always enough to keep one
focused and engrossed in a song. ( ! ! ! )
Track 4- Voices
Still maintaining an 80's keyboard sound with techno
effects, leaves one wanting something new and unique. Berlin had a sound much
in the same vein as did Pink Floyd, take these influences and learn from them
don't copy them. This is a lesson which signing einstein needs a refresher
course in. Again they are tight musicians, but do they want to be a cover band
or an original band? These are original songs which one could incorrectly
relate with a multitude of 80's artists. ( ! ! ! )
Track 5- Heart Beating
Following the same formula and including no variety in their
sound could certainly be the end of the road for signing einstein. Once again
the melody is too familiar, although the solo instrumental breaks are well
crafted and captivating elements. This is one of the better tunes on the album,
because the structure has a unique quality with much of the originality featured
in the charismatic vocals. ( ! ! ! ! )
Track 6- Hit Me Like a Train
Now this tune has a refreshing vibrance to it and has a very
original feel about it. The beat is unique and quite technical, the keyboard
and guitar accents add color and depth to the captivating melody. The bass
guitar work is relentless and adds a tight bottom end to the fast paced time
signature. Even the vocals have a strong presence with an energetic emotional
quality. ( ! ! ! ! ! )
Track 7- Be That as It May
The quality has gone back to the average sound that feels a
bit too comfortable for the group. Tight music without any heart and soul, or
more precisely meat and potatoes, in the composition. A tune that is cool, but
sure isn't a hit, best describes this number.
( ! ! ! )
Track 8- Love, the Same
Another 80's flashback comes via this piece. "Please
don't bring me back", one screams as signing einstein keeps pulling the
listener into the 80's abyss. Some will leap into the pit, but more will turn
and run to the future. Catch me if you can. ( ! ! ! )
Track 9- Time to Decide
The energy level on this piece is on high, but the sound is
like canned Casio keyboard crap. The drums have a cheap electronic quality,
while the oom paa bassline has an equally poor feel. The vocals are adequate,
but as an artist does one really want to put the effort into it. ( ! ! )
Track 10- Wipe the Pages Clear
This tune has a contagious and charismatic melody. The beat
with a slight Island quality has a great dance quality. Unfortunately, this tune
is so similar to Blondies "The Tide Is High" that one wonders if
signing einstein ever listens to Pop radio or is that all they ever listen to.
( ! ! ! )
Oct. 03, 2001 – Downeast Record and CD Review
(33/50) B Rating: Excellent- ! ! ! ! !
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Nix- !