Alright, let’s dive into this wild ride of an album—Brain by Various. Released in 2003 outta Germany, it’s like someone threw a buncha genres and styles into a blender and hit puree. You got your Electronic vibes, some Rock grit, and then they sprinkle in Psychedelic Rock, Krautrock, and Prog Rock for good measure. It’s kinda all over the place, but in the best way possible. Label creds go to Brain (yup, same as the album title) and Universal Marketing Group GmbH.
Now, I gotta say, this album isn’t just one of those “throw it on in the background” deals. Nah, it grabs you by the ears and says, “Hey, pay attention!” Two tracks that really stuck with me? Let’s break ‘em down.
First up: “A Meditation Mass Part 3 (Excerpt).” Man, this track is trippy as heck. It starts off super mellow, almost like you’re floating in space or something. But then—BAM!—it shifts gears and gets all intense. The synths are buzzing around like hyperactive bees, and there’s this drumbeat that feels like it’s stalking you. Honestly, I remember it because it’s one of those tracks where you’re not sure if you wanna chill or freak out. Like, am I meditating or losing my mind? Either way, it’s unforgettable.
Then there’s “Rocken Mit Eduard.” This one’s a total vibe shift from the first. It’s got this groovy, almost retro feel, like someone dug up a forgotten jam session from the ‘70s and gave it a modern twist. The guitar riffs are sharp enough to cut glass, and the rhythm? Oh man, it’s impossible not to nod your head along. There’s even this weird little breakdown halfway through that sounds like a robot having an identity crisis. I dunno why, but it made me laugh the first time I heard it. That’s probably why it stuck in my brain.
Other tracks like “Der Elektrolurch” and “Radio Marrakesch / Orient Express” keep things interesting too, but those two above? They’re the ones I’d tell my friends about. Well, assuming my friends are into music that doesn’t play by the rules.
So yeah, Brain is one of those albums that’s hard to pin down. Is it Electronic? Is it Rock? Is it trying to mess with your head? Probably all three. And honestly, that’s what makes it so cool. It’s like taking a trip without leaving your couch. By the end of it, you’re left wondering, “What did I just listen to?” But in a good way.
Oh, and here’s a random thought: If this album were a person, it’d probably be that eccentric uncle who shows up unannounced at family gatherings with stories about living in a van down by the river. Love him or hate him, he’s definitely memorable.