Review of No No No Album by Beirut
Each Beirut album has its very own character and sound, none ever the same as its predecessor. No No No marks 10 years since Beirut's debut album Gulag Orkestar, an album hugely inspired by Eastern European music. The Flying Club Cup followed, a Parisian-sounding album, filled with strings and accordions. Then came The Rip Tide, which had a sudden leap into electronic sounds and styles that the band hadn't explored much before. Somewhere in amongst all of these influences sits No No No.
Beirut have garnered themselves a strong, loyal fan base over the last 10 years, from both indie and world music audiences alike. Lead singer Zach Condon has one of the most unique and timeless voices around; he could be from anywhere in the world and be any age (he is actually American and only in his twenties). When listening to the band's debut album from 2005, it's hard to imagine that it's a teenager singing with such depth and wisdom. 10 years on, Condon has matured and sounds more at home making music than ever.
No No No is probably the band's most settled and structured album to date. It flows seamlessly from upbeat, catchy songs to more melancholy, deliberate tracks. The lead single 'No No No' is the catchiest of them all, pop-inspired and sure to stay in your head for days after. Current single 'Gibraltar' shines as the opening track, a perfect summer song and Beirut at their very best. 'At Once' is a beautiful, brooding song, showing the more contemplative side of Condon, his voice exuding depth and loss. The album soars, taking you on a beautiful journey that's sure to make it one of the best albums that 2015 has produced. As always with their albums, you are left wishing it was just slightly longer.
It's a carefully crafted indie pop album, infused with sounds from across the world. It's clear that the band are enjoying themselves hugely, making the album a real treat for both existing fans and newcomers alike.
No No No is released on 11th September 2015.
Louise Mawson
