The Beta Band - 'Hot Shots II' (Regal)
4/5
By: Toby L
On the surface, luck is something that has never seemed to be on the side of this lo-fi Scottish act. After completion of their debut album, they actually realised themselves that it really didn't justify their true ability too well... In fact, they proclaimed it to be the worst album of the year. Hmm. Following this, however, their first chart-elligible single, 'Square', had to be held back from release due to the fact that another track (by I-Monster) had used the same sample as its main hook - and was scheduled to come out at the same time. Oh dear...
Despite this, though, 'Hot Shots II' is evidence that all the toils of the past will be made up for them. From the outset, the aforementioned 'Square' opens the album in fine style, setting the mood superbly as to what's to come. The downbeat nature, which fuelled much of the debut's work into a state where it was too stoned-like to move or have any focus, has been replaced with a friendly fuzziness that seems to have found itself some form of direction. Maybe this has been aided by producer, C-Swing - most notable for his work with UK R&B artist, Jamelia. Although sounding like a beyond-bizarre collaboration, on record, it works out to be a truly sweet and endearing partnership.
It's probably the openminded, try-anything-once tactic which rewards this record with most of its rich and highly textured qualities. The mildly amusing rap-segments on 'Dragon', ultra warming harmonies throughout and stunning 'Quiet' showcase the work in a fine and genuinely inspired light. The final track, 'Eclipse', rounds it off in a spectacular subtlety and - as can be said for the whole 45-minute experience - frontman Steve Mason's voice is essential throughout, to the extent where his sumptuous croon will most likely be namechecked in reviews of future recordings for comparison purposes.
To those that are put off by The Beta Band's reputation for being so relaxed that their music will just send you to sleep, discard these misconceptions: march right into that store, purchase your copy of 'Hot Shots II' and live your life in the blissful satisfaction that you've bought one of the records of the year.
Artists in this article: The Beta Band
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