Brain Thrust Mastery
by We Are Scientists
  • Record Label: EMI
  • Release Date: May 13, 2008
Metascore
64

Generally favorable reviews - based on 19 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 6 out of 19
  2. Mixed: 13 out of 19
  3. Negative: 0 out of 19
  1. AllMusic
    60
    There are some solid album tracks that recall the more daring aspects of the debut, particularly the abstract, dark-hued cool of the opener, "Ghouls," and the catchy and energetic "Tonight." But the rest of Brain Thrust Mastery consists of pleasantly tuneful pop songs that barely register with the listener even after several repetitions.
  2. Pitchfork
    53
    As far as mainstream pop-rock records go, Brain Thrust Mastery occasionally gets the job done.
  3. PopMatters
    50
    Brain Thrust Mastery contains a lot more variety than its predecessor, which, although enjoyable, blended together at times.
  5. Uncut
    60
    In a world of fast thrills, WAS remain admirably opaque. [Apr 2008, p.109]
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  6. Mojo
    60
    We Are Scientists now sound less like a band you might have seen on a bill with Bloc Party. [Apr 2008, p.112]
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  7. Q Magazine
    60
    Amazingly Brain Thrust Mastery manages to be both calculating and emotional in the same breath. [Apr 2008, p.117]
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  8. musicOMH.com
    50
    None of it stops you longing after the energy and charm of their debut.
  9. The Guardian
    60
    It's another guilty pleasure from an album that sacrifices identity in a scramble for catchy tunes.
  10. Spin
    60
    Murray doesn't sound like he's going anywhere but straight home after last call. [June 2008, p.119]
  11. Paste Magazine
    60
    The Brooklyn band’s innate charm and accessibility allows forgiveness of its near-abandonment of bass-driven new wave.
  12. Slant Magazine
    50
    Brain Thrust Mastery eschews the scenester party-and-sex themes of the band's sorta-breakthrough "With Love and Squalor" for more grown-up subject matter.
  13. Boston Globe
    60
    Their copycat approach is a bit too formulaic - it seems they've lost their kooky chemistry found on the first album. Though these new tracks are enjoyable enough and may give the band more of a mainstream audience, there's nothing mind-blowing on the Scientists' latest experiment.
  14. Urb
    60
    The album certainly excells when the faux-accent is beaming British. When it isn't, the album can grow monotonous but overall, Brain Thrust Mastery keeps the trash smelling absolutley delightful.

User Reviews

All reviews »
User Score
8.7

Universal acclaim- based on 78 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 68 out of 78
  2. Mixed: 3 out of 78
  3. Negative: 7 out of 78
  1. NathanG
    May 17, 2008
    9
    Great album, more songs that stand out than the first album. It has a great 80's sound, can't wait to see them play this album live Great album, more songs that stand out than the first album. It has a great 80's sound, can't wait to see them play this album live live, thats where WAS really exceed over all other bands.… Full Review »
  2. DavidA.
    May 16, 2008
    6
    This is an OK effort, but compared to their first album I would sat this is a step backwards. They seem to have switched styles to a more This is an OK effort, but compared to their first album I would sat this is a step backwards. They seem to have switched styles to a more 80's dance rock, from their previous indie sound. I am not a big fan of the change. The album is OK, but I hope I can chalk it up to sophomore slump.… Full Review »
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