BANDS:

Punk & Ska
80's New Wave/
Post-Punk/
College Bands
90's & Beyond
Virginia, North
Carolina, & DC

Echo Us: Self-Titled
[Absolute Probability]

Echo Us is a solo project of Ethan Matthews, former member of the groundbreaking progressive rock band, Greyhaven.  At first glance, Mathews album is a kinder and gentler spin off from the intense metal style of his past.  Moody, transient sounds emanate through the album, coupled heavily with influences of the 80s.  Moments of Depeche Mode, A-ha, and Erasure weave in and out, and the final sound delivered is nothing short of eclectic.

Through the electronic sounds, the album strings together compositions of organs, chimes, and a synthesizer, showing the breadth of Matthews musical talents; but the album falters with clumsy transitions, mediocre vocals, and the intensity of the 80s influence. 

I was first struck by the dark atmosphere delivered by Dreaming, but this track soon stumbles when it hits monumental guitar solos (think Eric Johnson), breathy vocals, and uninspired melodies that simply drone along to the finish.  Who Loves You is one of the cleaner tracks, incorporating a chiming synthesizer and quick rhythm reminiscent of Circus by Erasure.  But again, the song is still plagued by off-key vocals and an unnecessary anthemic guitar solo.  Its only I Radiate I that truly holds my attention.  Opening with an Asian-influenced tune, the song disintegrates into something harder that is not present in the earlier tracks.  The result is a much more abrasive and stripped down electronic feel, reminiscent of Jesus Jones Perverse. 

The album deserves recognition for its unabashed experimentation, but its weaknesses become unavoidable distractions.  Every song is drowning in chimes and synthesizers, only compounded by Matthews breathy and off-key vocals.  At the base of it, Echo Us has produced an album that will appeal to a select few.  Those who feel heartfelt nostalgia for the sounds of the alternative 80s popsters will feel a kinship with this album, but for the rest of us.

This album can be purchased at the Amazon

Absolute Probability Official Website

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