The Beta Band has always signified brilliance in the alternative music scene, and finally they have returned with the much awaited 'Heroes to Zeros'. They do not disappoint.

They've never been famous for writing typically 'catchy sing along' tunes, but 'Heroes to Zeroes' has tracks which will unexplainably stick in your head for days, but not in the usual 'sing along pop song' type of way. They've achieved an ethereal sounding album with truly memorable songs without sacrificing their signature rich vocal harmonies. It's these harmonies that continue to astound me as the album goes on. There is much to be said for a band who can write such complexity without overwhelming a song with it.

Steve Mason says "We've carried on trying to hone out sound down to a pop song"; but don't let that put you off. Their sound is more pop in the sense that its more accessible, but thankfully they haven't abandoned their alternative roots. Their eccentricity remains integral to their song writing, but through instrumentation within the fabric of the tracks rather than through lyrics, as in previous albums.

Lyrically this album is much easier to follow and less surreal than past albums. I'm not sure if this suggests they've been laying off the drugs, or if Mason has found love, either way it works well for them. The lyrics of "Troubles" are frankly beautiful and polish a gloriously moving song.

The most surprising track off 'Heroes to Zeros' is the funk inspired 'Easy', which employs more orthodox bass-riff driven song writing technique, which adds depth to the album as a whole. Whilst 'Outside' is out-and-out rock which is almost psychedelic in places.

'Heroes to Zeros' is incredibly diverse, proving that not only is the Beta Band capable of writing ambient chillout alternative music, but they can also provide juicy riffs when required. Every one of the twelve tracks is a gem and thoroughly deserving of the 5/5 I'm going to give it. Please make every effort to see this band on their upcoming tour. You owe it to music.

Rating: 5/5 by Ros Bell

Tracklisting

1. Assessment
2. Space
3. Lion Thief
4. Easy
5. Wonderful
6. Troubles
7. Out-Side
8. Space Beatle
9. Rhododendron
10. Liquid Bird
11. Simple
12. Pure For

Further links

Regal.co.uk

UK label featuring The Beta Band, Cathy Davey and Athlete

Beta Band.com

Official site of the lo-fi no-fi weirdniks