Spring usually means two things. One, it’s time for me to dust off my stockpile of Claritin. Two, the winter music doldrums are over, and new release lists start warming up. Spring 2004 has, thus far, held true to form. Though, I’ve been plagued by sneezing, wheezing and coughing fits for the past month, listening to “Seek”, the stellar third full-length CD from Munich-based duo Beanfield, has soothed my respiratory misery. “Seek” took me on a sonic journey through springtime’s unfolding, unimpeded by the accoutrements of breathing assistance. It’s a balanced effort with just enough sappy love songs to satiate the hopeless romantic, and just enough edge for those open to a little challenge. Beanfield delivers a blissful melding of cozy electronic sounds and live instrumentalism, blooming with thoughtful soul-kissed vocals.
Since their 2001 release “Human Patterns”, Beanfield has experienced a bit of change. Former member Tobi Meggle went off to pursue a solo career leaving behind Jan Krause. Jan then hooked up with keyboardist Michael Mettke, and together they slowly surely evolved into the new Beanfield incarnation. Their musical relationship has proven to be a source of growth and fulfillment for the both of them, and “Seek” is the product of that growth.
Though Beanfield’s line-up transformed slightly, they brought back vocalist Bajka, known for her work on their classic “Seasons”. She breaths the perfect kiss of life into “Home” and “Tides”, with a style somewhere between Erykah Badu and Micatone’s Lisa Bassenge. By the way, don’t miss Chateau Flight and Carl Craig remixes of “Tides”.
Swedish vocalist Ernesto is the man behind the romance on this album. “Someone Like You” takes up where George Levin left off, with a tune that’s about as mainstream R&B as the “underground” can get. “Kiss” is a songwriting triumph, with beautifully warm chords and lyrics that say it all exactly as it should be said.
The instrumental tunes are no less impressive,“Cargo” being my personal favourite. With horns swirling in and around a syncopated rhythm, over and through lush chord progressions, it’s the perfect tune for a breezy spring sunset.
“Seek” is a many splendored thing--the cure for the common allergy, the Compost label’s best effort in a long time, a staple in my CD player’s current diet—a definite must have.
