Mene
Brand New · 2015
6 min · 2 tracks · alternative rock
A raw, urgent blend of alternative rock that channels existential angst through sharp instrumentation and introspective lyrics.
Top tracks — play these first
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Mene — The title track serves as a powerful statement of the band's return, featuring frenetic energy and emotionally charged lyrics that encapsulate themes of disillusionment.
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Out of Range — This track showcases a more reflective side of the band, blending melodic elements with introspective lyrics that delve into feelings of isolation and longing.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
The single showcases strong songwriting and production but lacks the depth for lasting impact.
What we noticed
- The title track 'Mene' features a driving rhythm with layered guitars that create a dense soundscape, while the vocals are delivered with an urgent intensity.
- The second track 'Out of Range' shifts to a more subdued tempo, incorporating atmospheric elements and a more melodic vocal line.
- Both tracks maintain a consistent lyrical theme of disconnection and introspection, enhancing their emotional weight.
- Composition 25% of the score
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7/10
- Craft 20% of the score
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8/10
- Durability 25% of the score
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6/10
- Distinctiveness 18% of the score
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7/10
- Sequencing 12% of the score
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5/10
the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics
production, performance, arrangement
whether it rewards returning to it
whether it sounds like itself
running order, pacing, length
Little footprint beyond its audience. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.
Where this album fits
- In the catalog
- Experimental — Mene represents a shift after years of silence, exploring new sounds and themes.
- Career context
- Released in 2015, Mene marked Brand New's first new music since their 2009 album Daisy. This single came during a period of uncertain activity for the band, as they had been largely quiet while fans awaited a follow-up to their critically acclaimed earlier work.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Taking Back Sunday· The Wonder Years· Dashboard Confessional
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 Mene 2:29
- 2 Out of Range 3:40
If this landed
Records by other artists that run on the same instinct.
Trouble Will Find Me
The National
Shares a similar introspective lyricism and raw emotional urgency set against lush instrumentation.
Kintsugi
Death Cab for Cutie
Explores themes of emotional isolation with sharp, reflective lyrics and a blend of raw and polished sounds.
Strangers to Ourselves
Modest Mouse
Combines existential angst with a raw alternative rock sound and introspective lyrical depth.
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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