25. "Midnite Vultures" by Beck (1999)

Let's talk about composers: Beck is a great one.

These guys, Mozart and Schubert, they were amazing, creative men who revolutionized music in their time. We like to think of their music as "old", but in their time they were not only innovative with the new technology (i.e. the "pianoforte"), they incorporated other styles and genres into their music. For example, a style called "Strum und Drang" was a German style of music and poetry that was popular before Mozart's time that he sometimes incorporated, or alluded to, in his music. In fact, it can be shown that part of Mozart's genius was his ability to borrow and synthesize various styles into that of his own.

I think you see where I'm going with this. "Midnite Vultures" sounds like a disco throwback album, but with updated electronics. There are some really nice funk grooves here and even a horn section. There are parts that sound like Prince. One of my favorite tracks, "Beautiful Way", is a slow groove that features a pedal steel and a harmonica. My favorite track, "Mixed Bizness", has a guitar riff and horns that pretty much rips off The Ohio Players.

I shouldn't say "ripped off" because Beck does it in such great style that makes me want to go and buy an Ohio Players CD and listen to it. (Ha, notice I didn't say, "Put on the record album.")

So I can't say that I am a Beck aficionado because I've only listened to it a couple of times now (at the behest of Emily), but I can say that this is a fun dance party album in a good, grooving way that makes you remember the best parts of disco and funk and which omits the afros, disco balls and shoes with really tall heels.

cds