Global Beats

Beats Antique, a trio from San Francisco, delivers an LP chockfull of world electronica and rhythmic belly dance compositions that intrigue the listener.  Yet this nearly ancient style of music is reborn with a clever use of electronic mixing and elaborate instrumentation. This LP, Blind Threshold, is meticulously crafted with an array of sounds and a variance of melody.

The electronic blends and spot-on percussion elements of “Revival” provide a jam worth some hip shakin’ dancing. An element that seems to be missing is a lack of vocalization, which would definitely add an extra interesting spice. The string composition in “Vardo” is also well-worth a listen, but the album seems to be filled with classic belly dance tracks, such as “Egyptic” and “Grandstand.” One surprise off the LP is the beautifully written piano ballad “Prelude,” which seems out of place, but positively so.

The mixing capabilities of the group are most definitely visible in “Merry Go Round,” for this is definitely a premiere track. However, the strongest track is undoubtedly “There You Go”; two cultures are fused with a blues-Middle Eastern vibe. Blues-harmonica expert John Popper caps this song, for this amazing display of talent propels this piece to the next level.

It is an utterly outstanding idea to bring these two genres into one effectively tight track, and the mixing is superb. In the next coming work from this group it would be interesting to leave the comfort zone and explore new variations and genres to use, therefore allowing for more song innovation. Simply put: this album requires a listen and possibly two, to fully absorb a unique spin on today’s electronica music