AuralAdventures.com...

"The Brian Cline Band established themselves as a major musical force with release of the CD "Hold The Keys" in 1999. Within weeks of release the title track was being played on dozens of commercial radio stations across the US, with many including the song in strong rotation. This put the band on the FMQB and New Music Weekly radio charts for the AC format, and rocketed them to #3 nationwide on the New Music Weekly chart for "Most Added" single!

"Within Without" continues the band's musical tradition of blending insightful lyrics, soulful vocals, and acoustic sounds into an honest and captivating musical experience. Incorporating elements of acoustic folk, pop, and a funky rhythm or two, Brian's easy-going style always comes from the heart." Written by Bill Barnes [top]

Encore Magazine...

"Brian Cline's latest six song release once again showcases this Californian's penchant for hook laden, groovin' mid tempo rock tunes. Cline and company utilize the dynamics of acoustic guitars behind a rock band backdrop proficiently ("Sea Of Lies"), but that's not all this quartet is capable of. Creamy choruses that have got that pop-rock stamp all over them ("Within") are a staple of BCB, and they're right up there with Goo Goo Dolls and Bon Jovi when it comes to putting together a convincingly cohesive song that is easy to sing along to ("What's On My Mind"). For some feel good rock with mass appeal, Brian Cline Band is an outfit to watch." Written by Mike SOS [top]

The Global Muse...

"Though I'm no stranger to Brian Cline's music, I have to say that I am extremely impressed with this album. The music of this band has progressed ten fold since the last album. Their "modern rock with an acoustic edge" style is even more infectious and pop/rock sensible than before. The songs are also very well written with great lyrics, vocals, and musicianship. It's very rare that I like every song on an album, but this album did come very close. The Brian Cline Band can be very proud of this effort, and expect a lot of critical acclaim for their accomplishment. Music fans should be head over heals for this music, as well. It's just that damn good. This is definitely an album that I'll be listening to more." Written by Michael Allison [top]

Indie-Music.com...

"Before I review the music, take a look at the CD cover. Isn't that a really cool water graphic? The Brian Cline Band is the leading contender so far for most interesting CD cover of 2001. I found myself staring at it, mesmerized, while listening to this CD, until one of my co-workers asked me if I was stoned.

I've been eagerly awaiting this follow-up from the Brian Cline Band since reviewing "Hold The Keys" last year. That CD won this California band a lot of acclaim – their music has been featured on MTV's "Undressed" and "Making the Video," IMAX theaters, the Odyssey Channel, "Another World," "Guiding Light," and several other programs. Their music, an acoustic-based blend of rock and pop mixed with intelligent lyrics, has been reaching a broad range of rock fans. The band plays approximately 150 dates a year.

Their follow up "Within Without" took me by surprise. They've kept the high-energy music with introspective lyrics, but they've cranked it up a few notches. They've got a harder rock sound, thanks to some incredible electric guitar work by Rob Sherman. The attention-grabbing first track, "Day to Day," proves that the band has sharpened a grittier edge on their sound.

The band still has all its musical elements together. The music hasn't lost its celebratory feel. All four band members are strong singers, as evidenced by the harmony on tracks like "Sea of Lies." They still shy away from formulaic, predictable writing – the song "Within," for example, is a driven rock party that pauses for breath at times as it quiets down on the verses, and then gears back up for the chorus.

Despite the harder sound, Cline still hasn't lost his sense of humor. I like the struggle of a man trying to communicate with a woman in "What's On My Mind":

"I love you, oh you're so fine,
No, I don't have one thing in mind.
I want to hold you, you're just hot,
I really like your curves a lot.
I never said that you were fat.
How did you extrapolate that?"

I also love the poetry in "Within," which sounds like the pain of loss:

"She's wrapped within
Wrapped within the wings of an angel.
From a rainbow, you can see, down below, incomplete."

I found an interesting parallel between this CD and the previous one. "Hold The Keys" ended with "A Moment Here in Peace," a lullaby about being tucked safely into bed, hidden away from the world. The new CD ends with a track called "In Slumber." It's also a smooth, cool way to close out the CD, but it has a different feel – thoughts of seductive, sensual longing and a desire to connect. Instead of turning out the lights on this CD, they're leaving an ember burning." Written by Jennifer Layton [top]

The Lance Monthly...

"I developed a keen interest in Brian Cline's musical career last year when I reviewed his band's first CD, "Hold the Keys." I pointed out that all of the twelve tracks on that album are "of a soft, classic, folk-rock genre masterfully written, sung, and arranged by Brian" and in a later writing, "Brian's passion for music can be traced back to when he was five-years-old" and that "one day [he would] become a musician of excellence."

Now comes "Within Without" and there's a new twist: A little metal has been expertly provided by lead guitarist, Rob Sherman but not to the extent that it would compromise the band's original unhardened, beautifully performed folk-rock efforts. Everything's the same as before except now, it rocks! Aside from Rob's noteworthy distortion licks, Paul Batres' complicated drum timings are impeccably rhythmic and they've been masterfully enhanced by Andrew Lion's well-balanced blend of bass patterns.

Brian's vocals have also risen to a new level of professionalism in this CD project. A good voice is nothing unless the vocalist has the ability to convince the listener that he or she means it. Brian has no problem with that. His vocal outputs are very convincing.

"Within Without" is six well-written songs with real verses and bridges! This is where a lot of aspiring artists miss the boat. They spend too much time on effects and turn their backs on the mechanics of song writing . . . good melodies, cleaver verses, and strong, catchy hook bridges which repeat the track titles. Brian Cline and Company figured this out a long time ago and have become masters at it!

Tracks: Day to Day - Believe in Me - What's on My Mind - Sea of Lies - Within - In Slumber For additional information on "Within Without"(Icourse 22) or other product by The Brian Cline Band, go to: www.briancline.com." Written by Dick Stewart [top]

The Muse's Muse...

"What one remembers about the Brian Cline Band debut, Hold the Keys, is that here is an act that is establishing itself. With the basics. Good performances wrapped around tight, catchy material. We were all fish back then, going for the shinny, exciting hooks that Cline and company dangled before us. Now he’s back to cast 5 more songs, and we couldn’t be more pleased.

That first release did a lot for them. National distro; festival touring from NY to CA; songs included in soaps Another World and Passions, plus MTV’s Undressed and IMAX Theaters; heavy airplay, and a good N. California following. When you hear Within Without, you’ll understand at once all the truth. No hype involved.

‘Day To Day’ lays guitar upon guitar for its opening, marshaled in by some great Paul Batres drumwork, everything directed superbly by Brian Cline’s soft rock vocals that radiate with a sheen not often given out with such amicable invective.

For drivin’ music, go into the simple beat of ‘What’s On My Mind’ and cheer at the backing vocals that make this an immediate Cline classic. But we must’ve forget Rob Sherman’s powerhouse guitar creations that keep these tunes rocking the automobile regardless of the road. Cline himself takes up acoustic guitar, beautifully adding a full Matchbox 20 kinda sound to the highly pop ‘Sea of Lies’ especially. One of the best.

If this music were any more radio-friendly, it would start passing out cigars and bucking for loans. Where are the smart suits of major labels? That they haven’t picked up an act like this makes one seriously doubt the credibility of such a powerful industry. Straight pop-rock, or rock-pop, with no qualms about friendly-vibe tossing, that be BCB. The Beach Boys of their kind, perhaps. Counting Crows for fans wanting to start over from scratch and discover just how wondrous and natural the world’s most necessary genre can get." Written by Ben Ohmart [top]

MuzikMan...

"The Brian Cline Band has released a six-song recording titled “Within Without” to follow up their previous “Hold the Keys” outing in 2000. I didn't have the pleasure of hearing that, but I can tell you one thing, these guys have what it takes to become very popular on a global level. Everything is in place…all the hooks, rocking guitar, and soulful emotionally drenched vocals with a polished professional sound and production for radio ready rock pleasure.

I was however very disappointed when the CD ended, as I absolutely loved every single song. So I just went ahead and gave it spin again. These guys are poised to break nationally in a big way. I wish the labels would get off their duffs and realize the potential that they have sitting right underneath their noses. “Within Without” is just a teaser, just wait until they put out another full length album. If they aren't outright stars by then there is definitely something amiss in the music business." Written by Keith "MuzikMan" Hannaleck [top]

Outrider Magazine...

"This act makes a great first impression. Three of the quartet's members and two outsiders are given writers' credit for one or more of the six cuts on this release. One immediately envisions a product resulting from camaraderie, trust, friendship and community, which sounds like a good start. It is. Picture a first album by The Who, had they started out twenty years later. This is it. While all the songs have simple foundations, there are subtle twists that set them apart. While they are all evocative of other songs, they don't really sound like other songs. Tight vocal harmonies and simple, narrative lyrics throughout allow the band to communicate and get listeners on their feet at the same time. They are clearly road warriors, polished enough for the fringes of Vegas but rough enough for Carolina Beach, the Brian Cline Band has stumbled upon a sound that is unique yet familiar, distinctly theirs yet right for many venues and settings. Picture a first album by The Who, had they started out twenty years later." Written by Arthur Shoey [top]

Score Magazine...

"Brian Cline Band, a Northern Californian quartet, recently released Within Without, a six song EP, on Icourse Recordings. They play a more adult-oriented rock sound that could fit into the likes of Top 40, or Alternative. Their style is something everyone can enjoy, being that this album is so versatile. There is nothing about this album that doesn't sound right. Every note is where is should be and the album is flawlessly put together. Brian's voice could not match the music any better. My personal favorite song is "Sea Of Lies", a slower-paced tune about someone who gave their trust and was fed lies instead of the truth. If you like acoustic pop, this album is surely for you. " Written by devon [top]

Surburbia Magazine, Italy...

"Brian Cline is an artist that works with amazing feeling and do that with passion in every single song, with a kind of music very bright like american melodic rock. This is the classic band that we can hear on the radio stations of the American highways. Emotionals songs with a great background on high tecnical and stylistic levels. "Day to day", "Believe in me", "Sea of lies" are spectacular songs on this EP that is incredible for every emotion that propose. Melodic Rock and dance tune rock on "What's on my mind". Six incandescent songs that you will find intense and irresistible.

Many magazines around the world speak well of this band. We are waiting to hear a new album of this great band that is climbing success with style and musical tecnique; in this EP Brian Cline plays acoustic guitars, keyboards and cello, creating original and dreaming atmosphere. For informations click on www.briancline.com" Written by Nicolò Mulas [top]

YBFree.com Ezine...

"Once again, I’ve found a winner! I sincerely hope someone from a mainstream radio station is reading this review. The Brian Cline Band deserves some airtime and a track from Within Without played is most definitely suited for play on most adult contemporary and Top 40 stations.

The Brian Cline Band's sound is very soothing – nothing hard-core about this band – but not to the point where it becomes soft rock. You can tell that the band has been seriously influenced by acoustic and alternative music. Brian Cline has a very soulful voice on par with that of Brad Arnold, front man for 3 Doors Down. The group’s harmonization is reminiscent of another well-known alternative rock group – I don’t know anyone who hasn’t heard of Train.

The lyrics are actually well written and flowed rather nicely. My favorite tracks on Within Without are Day to Day, the lyrics of which inspired the title, and Sea of Lies. All of the songs on the CD are love songs, but not the sappy type of love song that makes you groan and feel like your ears have just been assaulted by maple syrup-coated lyrics.

I listened to this CD three times before writing this review, and each time, I found myself liking the Brian Cline Band more. I find myself wondering why these guys haven’t had more radio play. I mean, their songs have been featured on MTV – Undressed, The Pretender, Another World, Guiding Light, Passions, and more and have enjoyed some radio play, but only on a handful of stations. Wise up all you folks in the radio industry! Instead of toting bands like LFO that look pretty, but stand around crooning inane lyrics that make absolutely no sense, take a look at the Brian Cline Band!" Written by Talon Karrde [top]

Allmusic.com...

"Brian Cline lists Toad the Wet Sprocket as a key influence on his music, and, indeed, Hold the Keys is full of the same upliftingly acoustic, melodic pop of that band. He has been compared to Dave Matthews, but that seems a convenient comparison based entirely on the swaying acoustics of both artists' music. The comparisons generally end there, with Matthews going off into an improvised, funk-inflected direction, while Cline opts for highly melodic pop/rock that combines strains of folk and emotive songcraft featuring deft, full-bodied acoustic guitars and unintrusive, breezily rhythmic percussive underpinnings.

Hold the Keys was a year in the making. Cline plays every instrument on the album, save for the drum and percussion work of Joey Jam and occasional guitar by co-producer Mark Yamamoto. And it is obvious from the primary themes and concerns expressed in the songs that it was an intensely personal effort. The title track sets the standard for the rest of the album. It has easygoing, calming verses which break into aspiring choruses that simply elevate (in fact, the song communicates a message of self-empowerment), with expert classical guitar accompaniment.

Cline seems to be a close musical peer of Duncan Sheik as well, though he is much less lyrically dour. Still, Cline also reveals a sense of loss and confusion ("What's That Do for Me?" is a sarcastic take on selfish love, while "Eye of the Storm" concerns forbidden passion), even delving into anger on occasion. This is serious music that wants to be taken seriously, and as such, can seem rather unrelenting. On songs such as "Let Us Remember" and "Endless Ambition," Cline eschews personal concerns for observations of some of the world's problems, always a tricky line to walk since an artist runs the risk of alienating listeners with a subjective view. Many of the songs are minor-key-based, and, perhaps, too persuasively sorrowful because of it. The tension created when songs draw the listener in with melancholy undertones before bursting forth with inspiring choruses could be construed as pulling the listener's strings unfairly, but that is not really the case here. Cline pulls it all off with aplomb because his views are so grounded in empathy, and his music, buoyed by his breathy vocals, is so passionate and crafted. It requires diligence on the part of the listener, certainly, but it fully compensates the effort. Hold the Keys is a beauty any way you slice it." Written by Stanton Swihart [top]

Ear Candy...

"Brian Cline is unlike any of your standard solo artists in the way that, similar to Dave Matthews, he relies on the overall power of his band rather than the output of its vocalist/lead. Despite the fact that Cline's intense vocals are more than enough to keep the listener intrigued ("What's That Do For Me"), this 10 track disc is overall intriguing due to the entire soundscape. Various uses of percussion and adventurous basslines ("Something To Tell") play off of Cline's acoustic guitar and inviting vocals to create emotional yet radio friendly music. Suitable for those who dig things a little more on the light side but still with an edge ("Let Us Remember")." Written by MikeSOS [top]

The Global Muse...

"Modern Rock with an Acoustic edge is how this music has been described. I totally agree, but the acoustic edge is not just description, but the total feeling of the music. The songs are very soulful and present a very refreshing feeling. The songwriting is very smart with a more Adult Alternative appeal. I completely enjoyed this entire album. There is something about this music that is so alluring to me. Maybe it's the powerful vocals or the great way that the acoustic guitars present a feeling of warmth and beauty. Maybe it's the way that the lyrics bring back memories or conjure up images of life and it's passions, failures, heartache, happiness and enjoyment. Thought it could be any number of things, it is sure to be something different for every listener. Choose your own reason for loving this music, because that is what Brian Cline's music is all about. The pure enjoyment. I can't imagine anyone not being able to enjoy this sound. Brian Cline is definitely at the top of his game." Written by Michael Allison [top]

Indie-music.com...

"Intro/general thoughts: I've been listening to a lot of cynic-rock lately with titles like "I'd Tell You I Love You, But You're Probably Going To Cheat On Me And The Earth Will Crash Into the Sun Soon Anyway (So Let's Just Get Drunk)". I've received quite a few of those types of CDs to review. So "Hold The Keys" by The Brian Cline Band was a welcome breath of fresh air. It's not that they don't sing about sad times. It's just that they refuse to get hopeless about it. Brian Cline (who wrote and arranged all the songs) is very introspective and intelligent, examining his feelings and looking for just the right words to express them. I spent a good part of this CD thinking, "Yeah, I know exactly what you're talking about!" In many ways, these lyrics are therapeutic.

The music is also good for the soul - free-spirited and uplifting in some places, funky and edgy in others. (LOVE that bass-heavy groove in "Joe"!)
Type of Music: Folk/pop
Hometown: Napa, CA
Notable: This band works hard to promote themselves. The song "Hold the Keys" has been used in commercials and soap operas.

Highs: I just can't get over these lyrics. Almost every song had a message that clicked with me. In "Take Time," Cline sings about lessons of life and adds, "Can't they teach us this when we're younger? Has anybody gotten it right one time?" (This song also caught my attention because of the percussion that sounds like raindrops, adding to the mystical sound of the verses.) I also like the effect of the background noises in "We're All Here." I don't know if this was the intended effect, but I felt like the murmur of the crowd emphasized the singer's loneliness. Surrounded by people, he still sounds alone. "Hold The Keys" is also a high point in itself. I really like this song. It sounds like a celebration. It almost has a gospel feel.

Lows: I'm not sure about "Let Us Remember." This is a serious song with dark images of suffering and pain set to music that doesn't seem to match. The music sounds a little to light for such somber lyrics.

Favorite Lines: "What's That Do For Me" is a relationship from a self-serving point of view. Cline sings: "I'd like to give, I'd like to pay, I'd like to watch, watch you stay, I need you now, I need your love, but if you push, then I will shove, I will shove... what's that do for me."
But my favorite lyrics come from "A Moment Here in Peace." What a beautiful way to end this CD. Anyone could relate to the feeling of serenity while wrapped snugly in their blankets at night: "This is all I'll ever need, a moment here in peace, safe from all the hate, here where nothing's wrong, here's where I belong, pull the covers tight, till the morning light."
Fans: Fans of the Dave Matthews Band and other VH1-friendly artists will like this CD.
Foes: Folks who like their rock music with screeching electric guitars and enough volume to rattle the walls. Which reminds me - my upstairs neighbors finally moved out.

Summary: Here is your proof that pop/rock, radio-friendly music can be insightful and thought-provoking without getting depressing. These songs are open and honest without getting too self-absorbed. The music is uplifting, playful, and fun without turning into party-band music. I definitely want to hear more." written by Jennifer Layton [top]

Lance Monthly...

"LANCE'S CD PICKS OF THE MONTH: "HOLD THE KEYS" (Dionysongs) A 12-song compilation...of a soft, classic folk-rock genre masterfully written, sung, and arranged by the artist, Brian Cline. No heavy drums here. In fact, bongos and congas dominate the rhythm section along with Brian's excellent acoustic guitar, bass, keyboard, and cool electric cello efforts. He does some nice leads on the electric guitar too. Brian has a very appealing voice and the catchy melody lines he creates in his material have all the hooks. All music lovers would like this CD no matter what their tastes. Nice job, Brian." [top]

Listen.com...

"Acoustic-based four piece plays tender pop ballads with a glint in their eye. Careful harmonies and easy-going rhythms steer you down a teeming river of passion. Similar Artists: Goo Goo Dolls, Matchbox 20, Counting Crows" - Doug R. [top]

Mish Mash Music...
"Brian Cline proves that you don't need an electric guitar to be aggressive. His blend of anxious acoustic folk rock is powerful in its subtlety. At times, Cline reminds me of acousto-rocker/songwriter Jeffrey Gaines, especially in his soulful vocals and storytelling lyrics. It's a simple setup, but one that works wonderfully. The title track is similar to the funky acoustic pop sound of DCTalk on their "Jesus Freak" album, while the driving rhythm of "Eye of the Storm" builds in intensity and urgency thanks in part to the steady drums of Joey Jam. Cline has an edge in his voice that draws you right in--it has a serious and questioning quality that shows a great deal of insight when belting out lines like "But if you push, then I will shove/I will shove/What's that do for me?" (from "What's That Do For Me?"). Cline shines with passion and skill--a combination that always wins. MISH MASH Mandate: Passionate acousto-rock." [top]

Muse's News...

"'in a hurry, in a mess / to keep the clock from beating us / sometimes I think its not life at all / in a rush to get it done / what happens / when its not enough / and nothing's left that matters / its all gone'. So says the rock title track 'Hold the Keys'. Sometimes Brian lets us go soft, like 'Joe (for Pop)', since much of this is a pensive, peaceful cd, with a cool, clear Cline at the voice. Acoustic guitar is the primary instrument, but it's far from folk. This is pop-rock, folks, introspective though it is. More uptempo than down on the rocks, and very professional sounding. Good songwriting all along the radio-quality voice." [top]

Music Dish...

"The Brian Cline Band is a vibrant experience into the harmonies of life. Originating from the San Francisco Bay area they are ready for national exposure. The BCB is Andrew Lion on fret-less bass, Rob Sherman-electric guitar, Paul Batres-drums, and Brian Cline on acoustic guitar and vocals. The band is well put together, with a variety of talent. The lyrics are well written as well as sung. They originate from Brians own life experiences. Giving the album a familiarity to it's listener. The BCB is expecting a release of a follow up album shortly and I'd be interested in hearing it. I hope they were able to put the same heart into it as Hold the Keys " -written by Kerry Bryer [top]

Nefarious Music Magazine...

"Do you long for the days when good music meant songs had real heart and meaning? When the music behind the words wasn't hidden behind electric rifts and drum machines? Well then, reminisce no more because Brain Cline is just what you've been waiting for. "Hold the Keys" is a beautiful combination of heartfelt lyrics, stunning vocals, and aco ustic musical blends that merge into a harmonious symphony of folk and pop. This CD is a rare treat sure to tantalize even the most finicky of musical pallets. With tracks like "Hold the Keys", "What's That Do for Me", and "Eye of the Storm", you can not only relate Brian Cline's feelings but find yourself connecting with them. When music can touch you that deep it is truly powerful. Brian Cline's "Hold the Keys" has been picked up by Icourse Recordings, they will be re-releasing it nationally this month through DNA/Valley media. So look for it today at a store near you! Rated the highest of 5 notes. www.nefarious.com" -written by B.R. Kennedy [top]

Nephis Music World...

"Hold the Keys, the impressive CD by Brian Cline (who after the release of the album met and formed what is now the Brian Cline Band) marks a solid debut for a musician that is destined to go far. Already playing around 150 dates a year, BCB seems to be a group on the verge of worldwide recognition.

The group is comprised of bassist Andrew Lion, guitarist Rob Sherman, Paul Batres on drums and percussion, and lead vocalist Brian Cline who plays acoustic guitar.

Cline produces a CD stuffed with positive, thoughtful lyrics and no-frills music all telling tale after tale of Cline's personal experiences. Fitting easily into categories such as acoustic pop, alternative, and modern rock, Cline's unique sound contains influences from pop, acoustic, Americana, alternative, folk, progressive, funk, and decades of rock.

The title track, "Hold the Keys," is perhaps the strongest song on the CD. A song about self-empowerment, it stirs the spirit with standout lyrics such as "Standing by for years / Although my heart / Has drowned in tears / I tried to run to others just to cope / I found my love was quicksand / And my world was sinking / But I stood there / Waiting with no hope."

The second track, "What's That Do For Me," keeps up the pace with its biting sarcasm, offsetting softer sounding songs such as the contemplative "Take Time" and the feelings of yearning in "A Moment in Peace."

Cline shows himself to not only be a talented musician and vocalist, but his strength as a songwriter is unmistakable. All ten songs, with the exception of "Eye of the Storm," a collaboration with coproducer Mark Yamamoto, were written and arranged by Cline.

Hold the Keys is a must for any music collection.

Grade: A" -written by Jason Klein [top]