This is the record I've been waiting Beirut to make since I first heard them in 2005. After a Balkan-influenced debut album, a French-tinged sophomore album, and a Mexican/Electronic double EP, I was curious to see which direction the band was headed in. Turns out that pop music trumps all. Pop w/ horns, that is.
The album opens with a solid 1-2-3 punch, including the standout track East Harlem. It might be the finest song Zach Condon has ever composed (with the possible exception of After The Curtain). Late album track Vagabond seems instantly recognizable - and instantly likable. Closer Port of Call is rather brutal in the way that it leaves the listener wanting more. And after only nine songs in 33 minutes, I've often found myself relighting the candle's fire right away.
The Rip Tide is, by far, Beirut's most consistent and polished record to date. They are quickly becoming the next Spoon, a band so talented and solid that their releases tend to get overlooked by critics and taste-makers. Don't make the mistake of missing out on this gem.
East Harlem by thespiralcase
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