Album review – Beirut

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Beirut – ‘The Rip Tide.’ (Pompeii)

Four years since their last album, Zach Condon and co. return to the fray with a long anticipated and highly anticipated new record. Two months ago, as the single ‘East Harlem’ appeared, it seemed that the wait might indeed have been worthwhile. And on listening to this record, it most definitely has been.

This is a very warm sounding record, right from the opening note’s of ‘A Candle’s Fire’ (am I the only person who hears this as a cousin of ‘Have you ever seen the rain?’ Er, probably. Anyway). It’s not just about the opening track and single, of course. ‘Goshen’ (actually the b-side to the single) is heartbreaking, and ‘Payne’s Bay’ reminds you just how awesome Beirut’s use of brass is.

It’s not perfect – the title track could do with being stripped of what sounds like a cheap eighties casio keyboard, which detracts, somewhat. No matter. It’s good to have them back, and this is an album that you should take the time to hear.

****

The Rip Tide is released on Pompeii on August 29.

Beirut – East Harlem by Revolver USA

The return of Beirut

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A mere four years after The Flying Cup, Beirut will return with their new album at the end of August.

The new album by Zach Condon and his merry men is entitled The Rip Tide, the tracklisting is as follows:

A Candle’s Fire
Santa Fe
East Harlem
Goshen
Payne’s Bay
The Rip Tide
Vagabond
The Peacock
Port of Call

‘East Harlem’/’Goshen’ has been released as limited 7″ out now, and the album is released on August 29.

The cover artwork for the 7″ features these gorgeous dogs, Beagles, I think. Meanwhile, you can stream ‘East Harlem’ and download it for free below. Rather lovely -I’ve just played it six times on the trot. The PR company have promised me a copy of the album very soon…

Beirut – East Harlem by Revolver USA