• 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. Negative: 0 out of 19
  1. Brain Thrust Mastery wouldn't exist without the '80s, but We Are Scientists offer up more than just retro-rock, even when they get as danceable as The Killers.
  2. Just because Brain Thrust Mastery doesn’t attempt to shoehorn some hamfisted social commentary or poverty-ending rhetoric into its 11 tracks doesn’t make it lightweight indie fluff; far from it–-We Are Scientists are serious about having fun.
  3. It’s a mixed bag then: sometimes they hit bull’s-eye, other times they miss the board altogether, but the erratic results reveal a band dragging themselves out of their comfort zone.
  4. Things get really sketchy, in the sense that most of the tunes are just that, sketches, with an arrangement or melodic idea worth pursuing that doesn't reach high enough.
  5. Under The Radar
    70
    We Are Scientists hit all the right notes--albeit in a most self-deprecating tone. [Summer 2008, p.90]
  6. Alternative Press
    70
    While such eclecticism usually plays better across the pond, it's hard to resist the nimble melodies and kinetic enthusiasm the Scientists put on display, even if the authenticity is somewhat suspect. [July 2008, p.158]
User Score
8.7

Universal acclaim- based on 78 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 68 out of 78
  2. 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 »