The Beta Band
From Heroes to Zeros (Astralwerks)
by Josh Kimmelman
I first heard Scotland’s The Beta Band when I witnessed a quick, urgent set of theirs as openers for Radiohead a few summers back. The atmosphere that fine evening was of anticipation for the main act, and my anxiety meant that I wasn’t too concerned with this sonic outfit’s charmingly melodic set. But now I wish I had paid more attention. On the new disc, The Bata Band successfully amuse listeners by weaving intriguing ambient landscapes with soulful lyrics to create an easy listening space for indie aficionados and shoegazer cronies to curl up in and zone out.
(www.astralwerks.com)