The result is dense and overpowering, but is never a chore to listen to.Įdan is also a much more refined lyricist this time out. On top of that, he adds moog sounds, as well as tons of reverb and other vocal effects.
As a producer, Edan samples an eclectic mix of soul, psych and prog rock, and obscure records from countries around the globe. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band with a VHS copy of La Planete sauvage with Edvard Munch’s The Scream.Įdan follows spiritual godfathers like Afrika Bambaattaa and Prince Paul to create the musical backdrop for Beauty And The Beat. It’s like if some mad scientist cross-bred a Cold Crush Brothers bootleg cassette with a Lord Finesse album with Sgt. Edan Portnoy is able to take his music to the next level in terms of scope and ambition. The album has a ton of replay value, because even at only 34 minutes in length, it feels like an epic undertaking.īeauty And The Beat is one of the best albums of the 21st century and among the greatest albums ever released. And that’s whether I’m listening to it in the car or through headphones while on the job or taking a walk or on a home stereo. Whenever I listen to Beauty And The Beat, I feel like I need to play it all the way through, from beginning to end, with no interruptions. And 15 years after its release, it’s a joy to consume. It’s eclectic without being impenetrable. Like many of the best types of albums, it honors its influences while still being forward-thinking. It bursts with creativity, imagination and intellect in a way few albums have before or since. Happy 15th Anniversary to Edan’s second studio album Beauty And The Beat, originally released March 29, 2005.Įdan’s Beauty And The Beat is a truly unique piece of art.