Glasseater's evolution as a band has been scattershot and disorganized, at one moment precariously balancing penultimate hardcore bravado with candy-coated pop/punk whimsy, and the next reintroducing themselves as an introspective emo-pop hybrid. Much of this had to do with several line-up changes including the loss of then vocalist Jason Calleiro, yet never were they allowed to sound as confident and accomplished as they do on "Everything Is Beautiful When You Don't Look Down". Ranging from quirky punk-inflected emocore ala RUFiO and Fall Out Boy to streamlined alt. rock in the vein of Hoobastank and latter-day Blindside, Glasseater have recorded the album that should prove to be their breakthrough into mainstream consciousness.

This is an album that quickly allows it's intentions to be known, as "Greetings...Goodbye" documents dreamy emo exposition with brief forays into throaty hardcore tenacity, yet as the song cascades through one's ears you realize Glasseater have matured. Though this is an all too common assemblage of sappy love songs, there is a stronger emphasis on atmospherics (which is all the more effective by the powerful production values evidenced within). The feeling of claustrophobic intimacy that results makes for a much more sincere album, and though the music is often upbeat and quite accessible, there is an aura of personality that few groups of this style manage to convey. From J.C. Lopez's spastic riffage which opens "Shortcut To A Quick Getaway" to Julio Marin's desperate pleas on "Break Away", the band surge forth with raw, emotional urgency that cannot be overlooked.

This album does have its speedbumps, as on "Art Of Communication" they almost mirror New Found Glory, while "From Cradle To Grave" feels like little more than overindulgent pop filler. Yet the group still keep their head above water by relying on their most prominent strength: domineering pop hooks. In fact, this is exactly where this album succeeds and where past efforts have faltered, as Glasseater have now grasped the understanding of how a song can pay in dividends when an ear-catching chorus captures the listener. With that comprehension, these men have overcome their flaws to record an album that shares the familiar bonds of love & friendship -- entertaining with heartfelt sincerity and all-consuming pop music technique. This is an invigorating release that marks their Victory Records debut, and offers listeners only a taste of what the group can create when allowed to extend themselves beyond the pop/punk boundaries. Although this is a rather formulaic album that rarely opts for pure originality over a good hook, Glasseater have grown into very competent musicians & songwriters, as this effort is proof enough that their bad luck has faded away, leaving them miles ahead of where they left off.