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Beirut's EP: More Than Just World Music
17 Oct
Summary
- New EP showcases Condon's songwriting skills beyond ethnic influences.
- Beirut's sound evolves with a larger, more vibrant eight-piece band.
- The EP offers a glimpse of maturity and authenticity in Condon's voice.
The five-track, 16-minute EP "Lon Gisland" by Beirut, released in fall 2006, showcases Zach Condon's songwriting capabilities beyond his characteristic global music influences. Previously criticized for "cultural appropriation," Condon, then 20, moves beyond solo bedroom recordings with an expanded eight-piece band, adding a vibrant, communal feel to the music.
This EP demonstrates a progression from the ambient pastiche of "Gulag Orkestar." Tracks like "Elephant Gun" feature a more authentic and joyous sound, while instrumentals such as "My Family's Role in the World Revolution" and "The Long Island Sound" offer playful, experimental textures. The remake of "Scenic World" highlights the band's collaborative energy.
"Lon Gisland" serves as a preview for Beirut's upcoming full-length album. It proves Condon can create compelling music independent of his distinctive horn arrangements, asserting a newfound gravity and maturity in his vocal performance and artistic direction.
