From Bandcamp, “Two years after releasing their self-titled debut album, Boston “Garage Prog” five-piece WE BROKE THE WEATHER sit in a place far above what they imagined when they began jamming in a basement as strangers with no musical agenda in 2018. Critics and fans alike have praised the band for their bold fusion of disparate genres and influences. Written in the depths of the pandemic, “Restart Game” is riddled with anxieties and uncertainties. It explores the idea of shared psychic trauma – whether it’s Covid, climate change, or any other number of horrific things happening in the world at any given time – and what it takes to live with it and perhaps even heal.”

The album has seven songs, and “Vestige” is first. Out of the gates, melody streams, and the songwriting is sophisticated. The woodwinds add a bit of a strange element to the sound, but it’s obvious that this isn’t your run of the mill band. When it settles in however, the sound is more concise, and pleasing. I can tell that this album might be hard to digest, but that is the beauty of music for me. “Lake St. George” comes out faster and with an energized sound. It quickly shifts to a slower and more somber sound. The sound is just a little disjointed for me, but let’s keep listening.

“Heavens Were a Bell” has an ominous edge to it, almost like you can view storm clouds rolling in, as well as some psychedelic elements. As a trio, these first three songs are quite different, and that shows the mark of strong songwriting…not being afraid to take chances. “Marionette” has some hard angles at first, sort of like the mechanical movements of a puppet on a string, but the chorus has hooks. Still, there is an outerworld quality to the song, as if you were wondering what era it was written in. “Seavenseas” makes heavy use of synths in an epic tale of adventure. The sound is even, and smooth, though dark. The seas churn, and when you are in the open water, you never know what to expect.

“Aromatic Decay” is a short little number than has a fun sound, giving you a brief reprieve in an otherwise dreadful day. Soak it in, and let it ride. “Cycles” closes the album, and is led with study bass notes and polished vocals. As the song continues, it grows less patient, and the psychedelica becomes more pronounced. My summary of the album is that it is highly personal in nature. Each person who listens to it intently might come away with an entirely different message. I found the sound fascinating, although strange, and I admire their convictions and their talent.