Back catalogue: Progressive Rock

Review: Bristol trio Beak>, like their co-founder Geoff Barrow, have always had a tendency towards the obtuse, choosing to go where they please musically with an air of disenchanted veterans whose faith in the world is waning all the time. This dystopian streak was evident on their 2009 full-length debut, where they consciously avoided overdubs and studio trickery, and it has returned to the fore on their widely acclaimed fourth studio set - a collection of 'head music' that they insist should only be listened to in its entirety. If you do that - and you should - you'll be treated to a delightfully cosmic, psychedelic and otherworldly journey through organ-heavy dream pop ('Strawberry Line'), wide-eyed krautrock-influenced funkiness ('The Seal'), acid-fried soundtrack weirdness ('Windmill Hill'), gentler and more intergalactic excursions ('Bloody Miles') and much more besides.

Review: Beak> returns with their fourth studio album, >>>>, embracing the concept of head music to be experienced as a cohesive album rather than individual tracks. Recording began at Pen Y Bryn in Talsarnau, Wales, amidst the remnants of the COVID era, before transitioning back to Invada studios in Bristol. The opener, 'Strawberry Line,' a tribute to their furry friend Alfie Barrow, sets the tone for the album. This release marks their debut on Temporary Residence in North America. ;Brean Down' is a more confident Barrow with vocals prominently featured in a traditional verse-chorus structure. The track pairs sparse arrangements with shrieking guitar, a doomsday bassline, and Barrow's militant drums, maintaining their dedication to crafting modern Krautrock. 'Alle Sauvage,' the lead single, exudes cosmic dread with coarse synth arpeggios and a rhythm section that builds tension and cinematic soundscapes. The album cover, depicting Barrow in a hazmat suit, hints at an apocalyptic theme. >>>> captures Beak>'s essence, delivering a raw and deep, introspective journey.