Beirut - The Flying Club Cup

Beirut
The Flying Club Cup
(10.2007/Ba Da Bing!)
10.0/10

Just when you thought he couldn't get any more "multi-instrumentalist" on you, the now 21 year old, Zach Condon graced us with his second gorgeous release of the year, full to the brim with new instruments and layers. The Flying Club Cup lacks the immediate hits of Gulag Orkestar, such as "Postcards From Italy," but overall is a much more balanced and intriguing album. Zach finally moved overseas and now lives in Paris, so most critics are claiming that his music has evolved from Balkan folk to French, but I don't really see that. If anything, it feels more Irish to me. The Flying Club Cup has the highest production value of any release of his yet. It was recorded in Arcade Fire's now famous Masonic church studio. Members from A Hawk And A Hacksaw helped again, as well as Man Man, in order to make some of the most passionate and resonating songs I have heard all year. Beirut's style has seen a definite although slight change on this album. Upon first listen I enjoyed it, but wasn't fully convinced that this new Beirut could compare with one of last years best releases. After getting thoroughly addicted to it for the last few weeks and listening to nothing but, I think this may very well be the best album of the year. It's gorgeous vocal melodies get entwined in your brain and you have to keep listening the album on repeat. I am absolutely in love with this album.

-Sassigrass

La Blogotheque filmed every single song from The Flying Club Cup being played live. They are gorgeous. WATCH THEM ALL - CLICK HERE!!! ...or just watch the one below.