to be released on February 16, 2009
if you aren't familiar with Beirut, buy Gulag Orkestrar IMMEDIATELY.
it is one of the greatest works of art of our time.
anyhow, unlike Sufjan Stevens, who initiated but later abandoned a themed musical project (he wanted to have an album for each of the 50 states but only succeeded in finishing two in that vein, Michigan and Illinois-both excellent albums, especially the latter), Beirut are actually following through with their musical journey through the globe.
Gulag Orkestar was Balkan.
The Flying Club Cup was French.
March of the Zapotec is very very folksy Mexican.
I think the Dutch might be a little confused (and/or offended) by their album though. Whereas Zach continues to use an accordion in March of the Zapotec (and a bit more conventionally, might I add), Holland is a lot more like a cool techno dance party in Germany than a trip through the Netherlands. Then again, I have no idea what Dutch culture constitutes, other than Van Gogh (who was more French anyways) and flat lands. Oh, and they were religiously tolerant, right? This EP is credited to "Realpeople", which is one of the names which Condon went by before assuimg "Beirut" permanently.I'm interpreting that as a break from "Beirut", as he is exploring new territory in a novel way. And maybe this is really an accurate portrayal of the low countries, and we Americans are just miserably uninformed.
The verdict?
If you're already a Beirut fan, go ahead, buy away. You'll be pleased by the new direction Zach is taking. On Holland he's like a more refined Kevin Barnes, lost in a dream world and not wanting to be found.
If you're unfamiliar with Beirut, try out their first two LPs first, and definitely give March of the Zapotec a listen. It's much more true to what Zach Condon's music really is. Holland is the family's black sheep, but the one who will inevitably get the most attention. I like it, but think that Zach should stick with what he knows. Soaring music which transcends, not just another band making dance music.
Beirut - On a Bayonet [mp3]
(from March of the Zapotec)
this song makes me want to take up smoking cigars, just so I can keep up with how incredibly cultured Condon is. trumpets galore, no vocals. a stunning masterpiece, perhaps the one least in the theme of Mexico, but my favourite of the bunch.
Beirut - The Concubine [mp3]
(from Holland)
if you ever wondered if electronica could be beautiful, look no further.
[[opening track "My Night With the Prostitute from Marseille" remains to be my favourite from Holland, mostly because Zach's vocals are a lot more faithful to old Beirut)
March of the Zapotec: 3.5/5
Holland: 3/5
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