The Beta Band - Heroes to Zeros

If The Moody Blues started making music in 2004, they would probably sound, on their best day, like The Beta Band. In fact, I’m willing to bet that the lush layers and dreamy psychedelic music on Heroes to Zeros would make the purveyors of trippy rock with a conscience rather envious. More than just a record, Heroes to Zeros was a “meeting of the minds” for the UK foursome. This was the first time the guys produced themselves, and the result is an album that is uncompromisingly innovative and imaginative. There is nothing here that doesn’t make sense, and the music is more cohesive than ever. If you read SU’s interview with John Maclean, then you know that the process for recording this time was also unique. Each member had the freedom and technology to create something individually for every track. When they got together to listen to and assemble the pieces, what eventually ended up on the record was the best of everything that was brought to the table. And believe me, it shows. The first single, “Assessment,” is a full-on rock song complete with dueling guitars and a politically fueled video portraying “the history of human warfare.” The tumbling rhythms of “Space” and janglely bounce of “Easy” are two of my favorite tracks. “Troubles” delicate strains express the band’s feelings about the tumultuous climate of the world around us and in our own back yard: “It’s about time we had a laugh; I know that I’ve been cryin; too many people; too many troubles; too many miles of lyin.’” “Out-Side” features tribal beats and a variety of sound bites from dog barks and trains to thunderstorms and this weird sound that made me think my cell phone was about to explode before I realized it was the song. And by far to me, the coolest song on the record is “Liquid Bird.” There is an almost machine gun-like beat in the background and rippin guitars. It almost sounds incongruous when you consider the rest of the disc, but there is enough of the band’s rich layering to make it fit perfectly. Really, the whole experience of the disc is one that would be a good opener for folks who have yet to get into the band as well as a rewarding ride for anyone who’s been a fan for years. The Beta Band didn’t have to seek indie cred with Heroes to Zeros; they are already critical and fan favorites, and yet you end up feeling better and better about loving them every time you pop the disc in. This is one club that I’m pretty happy to belong to. [www.betaband.com]