What is the Beirut project, and who is its primary creative force?

Beirut is an American indie folk project that originated in Santa Fe, New Mexico, in 2006. The project is primarily the work of singer, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist Zach Condon, who is the sole constant member and the main recording artist.

Who are the musicians who regularly perform with Zach Condon in Beirut, both in the studio and live?

While Zach Condon is the core of Beirut, he is consistently joined by a rotating group of musicians. This ensemble typically includes Nick Petree on drums, Paul Collins on bass, Kyle Resnick on trumpet, Ben Lanz on trombone, and Aaron Arntz on piano and keyboards.

What is the origin and significance of the band name 'Beirut'?

The band is named after Beirut, the capital city of Lebanon. Zach Condon chose this name to reflect the city's complex history of conflict and its role as a place where diverse cultures intersect and collide.

What musical genres are blended in Beirut's distinctive sound?

Beirut's music is characterized by a fusion of several genres. It incorporates elements of indie rock, Balkan folk music, and broader world music influences, creating a unique and eclectic sonic palette.

How many studio albums and EPs has Beirut released to date?

As of the provided information, Beirut has released seven studio albums and four extended play (EP) records. The band has also released compilation albums and DVDs.

Describe the first live performance of Beirut featuring a full brass section.

The band Beirut performed live with its full brass section for the first time in New York City in May 2006. This performance was in support of their debut album, *Gulag Orkestar*.

Where did Zach Condon grow up, and what were his early musical experiences?

Zach Condon grew up in both Santa Fe, New Mexico, and Newport News, Virginia. As a teenager, he played the trumpet in a jazz band, and jazz music remains a significant influence on his work.

What experiences influenced Zach Condon's musical direction during his youth?

While attending Santa Fe High School, which he left at age 17, Condon's interest in diverse music was sparked by working at a cinema that showed international films. This exposure led him to explore Fellini's arias, the sounds of Sicilian funeral brass bands, and Balkan music.

How did Condon's travels influence the development of Beirut's sound?

At the age of 17, Zach Condon traveled to Europe with his older brother, Ryan. This exploration of world music was instrumental in shaping the melodic and distinctive sound that defines Beirut's music.

How was Beirut's debut album, *Gulag Orkestar*, primarily created?

Zach Condon recorded the majority of the material for *Gulag Orkestar* independently in his own bedroom. He later completed the album in a studio setting with the assistance of Jeremy Barnes and Heather Trost, who were early collaborators.

Which record label initially signed Beirut based on the *Gulag Orkestar* recordings?

Ba Da Bing Records signed Zach Condon to their label after hearing the recordings for *Gulag Orkestar*. This led to the album's official release and the formation of the live band.

What was the critical reception of Beirut's debut album, *Gulag Orkestar*?

Beirut's debut album, *Gulag Orkestar*, received positive reviews. Brandon Stosuy of Pitchfork described it as 'an impressive and precocious debut,' highlighting its unique sound and Condon's early talent.

What were the primary recording locations for Beirut's second album, *The Flying Club Cup*?

Beirut's second album, *The Flying Club Cup*, was largely recorded in a makeshift studio set up in Albuquerque. The album was then finalized at the studio belonging to the band Arcade Fire in Quebec, Canada.

What cultural influences shaped the sound of *The Flying Club Cup*?

The album *The Flying Club Cup* features a notable French influence, stemming from Zach Condon's interest in French chanson music during the recording process. Condon specifically cited Francophone singers like Jacques Brel, Serge Gainsbourg, and Yves Montand as inspirations.

What is the significance of the 'Take-Away Show' session involving Beirut?

In September 2007, Beirut participated in a 'Take-Away Show' acoustic video session, filmed by Vincent Moon. This session was later compiled into a DVD titled *Cheap Magic Inside*, which was eventually made available as a digital download.

What led to Beirut canceling European tours in 2006 and 2008?

Beirut canceled European tour dates in both 2006 and 2008. Zach Condon cited exhaustion from extensive touring as the primary reason, emphasizing his desire to ensure that any performances would be of the highest possible quality.

What was released in January 2009 under the Beirut name, and what did it contain?

In January 2009, Beirut released a double EP titled *March of the Zapotec/Holland EP*. This release featured *March of the Zapotec*, inspired by Condon's trip to Oaxaca, Mexico, and *Holland*, which contained electronic music produced under the alias 'Realpeople'.

When and where did Beirut make their first U.S. television performance?

Beirut made their debut television appearance in the United States on February 6, 2009. They performed the song 'A Sunday Smile' on the *Late Show with David Letterman*.

How did the sound of *The Rip Tide* (2011) differ from Beirut's earlier work?

Reviewers noted that *The Rip Tide* marked a shift towards a more distinct and personal sound for Beirut, moving away from the heavy reliance on foreign musical influences found in previous albums. The album was described as having a more pop-oriented structure and embodying an 'old-fashioned American pop' spirit, while still retaining some European elements.

What was unique about the recording process for *The Rip Tide*?

Unlike previous Beirut albums where tracks were often laid down individually, *The Rip Tide* was recorded with the band playing together as a unit. However, Zach Condon added the lyrics only after all the musical components had been completed.

What personal challenges did Zach Condon face prior to the recording of *No No No* (2015)?

Before recording *No No No*, Zach Condon experienced significant personal turmoil, including going through a divorce. He was also hospitalized in Australia due to exhaustion following a demanding touring schedule.

What inspired the album title *Gallipoli* (2019)?

The album *Gallipoli* is named after the Italian town of Gallipoli, located in the Apulia region. Zach Condon wrote the title track for the album while in this town.

What instrument played a key role in shaping the sonic direction of *Gallipoli*?

An old Farfisa organ, which Zach Condon had acquired years prior and used on his earlier albums, was instrumental in shaping the sound of *Gallipoli*. Condon began writing songs for the album on this organ, and the production aimed to push sounds to their limits, similar to the organ's own worn-out state.

Who produced *Gallipoli*, and what was the production approach?

Gabe Wax, who had previously produced Beirut's album *No No No*, produced *Gallipoli*. The production approach involved channeling instruments through broken amplifiers, tape machines, and PA systems to achieve a raw, intense sound, pushing every element 'to its near breaking point'.

What is Beirut's 2022 album *Artifacts*?

*Artifacts*, released in January 2022, is a compilation album by Beirut. It gathers previously released EPs, singles, B-sides, and other early works, including a re-release of the *Lon Gisland* EP.

What is the inspiration behind the title of Beirut's 2023 album, *Hadsel*?

The album *Hadsel* is named after a specific island in Northern Norway. Zach Condon spent time on this island in 2020, and the location inspired the album's title and themes.

How was the album *Hadsel* received by critics?

The album *Hadsel* received positive critical attention. For instance, The Guardian awarded it 4 out of 5 stars, with reviewer Dave Simpson describing it as 'a triumphant celebration of life'.

What are Zach Condon's primary instruments as a musician?

Zach Condon's main instruments are the rotary-valve trumpet and the ukulele. He initially acquired the ukulele as a humorous stage prop but found he enjoyed its sound and could play it effectively, even with a wrist injury that affected his guitar playing.

Beyond his main instruments, what other instruments does Zach Condon play?

Zach Condon is proficient on several other instruments, including the piston trumpet, euphonium, mandolin, accordion, various keyboard instruments, and even a modified conch shell, which features on the album *The Flying Club Cup*.

Who are the current members of the band Beirut?

The current lineup of Beirut, as listed, includes Zach Condon, Nick Petree (drums/percussion/melodica), Paul Collins (electric bass/upright bass), Kyle Resnick (trumpet), Ben Lanz (trombone/sousaphone/glockenspiel), and Aaron Arntz (piano/keyboards).

Can you list some notable musicians who were formerly part of Beirut?

Several musicians have been part of Beirut's lineup in the past. Notable former members include Jeremy Barnes, Heather Trost, Jason Poranski, Kristin Ferebee, Jon Natchez, Tracy Pratt, Greg Paulus, Jared van Fleet, Perrin Cloutier, and Kelly Pratt.

What is Realpeople, Zach Condon's electronic side-project?

Realpeople is the electronic music side-project of Zach Condon. It was under this moniker that Condon created his first, unreleased album, *The Joys of Losing Weight*, when he was fifteen. The *Holland* EP is also credited to Realpeople.

What is the '1971' side project, and what EP was released under this name?

Under the name '1971', Zach Condon released an EP titled *Small-Time American Bats*. This EP was recorded around 2002 when Condon was approximately 16 years old, in collaboration with his friend Alex Gaziano.

What is Pompeii Records, and why was it founded?

Pompeii Records is the independent record label established in 2009 by Zach Condon. He founded the label to maintain complete creative control over his music and that of the Beirut project. The first release on Pompeii Records was the *March of the Zapotec/Holland EP*.

On which albums has Zach Condon made guest appearances as a musician?

Zach Condon has contributed guest performances on several albums, including A Hawk and a Hacksaw's *A Hawk and a Hacksaw and the Hun Hangár Ensemble* (mandolin, trumpet, ukulele), Alaska in Winter's *Dance Party in the Balkans* (trumpet, ukulele), Get Him Eat Him's *Arms Down* (on the song '2x2'), Grizzly Bear's *Friend* EP (first and last tracks), and The New Pornographers' *Together*. He also played trumpet on Blondie's *Panic of Girls*.

Which notable artists have featured Zach Condon on their tracks?

Zach Condon has been featured as a vocalist on 'Found Too Low RMX' by Pictureplane and on 'We Are Fine' from Sharon Van Etten's 2012 album *Tramp*. He also contributed to four songs on Mouse on Mars' 2018 album *Dimensional People*.

What song did Beirut contribute to the charity compilation *Red Hot + Rio 2*, and what was the album's purpose?

Beirut contributed a cover of the Portuguese-language song 'O Leãozinho', originally by Caetano Veloso, to the charity compilation *Red Hot + Rio 2*. The album's proceeds were dedicated to raising awareness and funds for the fight against AIDS/HIV and related health issues.

What are the titles and release years of Beirut's studio albums?

Beirut's studio albums include: *Gulag Orkestar* (2006), *The Flying Club Cup* (2007), *The Rip Tide* (2011), *No No No* (2015), *Gallipoli* (2019), *Hadsel* (2023), and the upcoming *A Study of Losses* (scheduled for April 18, 2025).

Which EPs has Beirut released, and what are their approximate release dates?

Beirut has released several EPs, including: *The Guns of Brixton* / *Interior of a Dutch House* (November 13, 2006, a split single with Calexico), *Lon Gisland* (January 30, 2007), *Pompeii EP* (February 28, 2007), *Elephant Gun EP* (June 25, 2007), and *March of the Zapotec/Holland EP* (unofficially released January 27, 2009, officially February 16, 2009).

What is the significance of the *Artifacts* release?

*Artifacts*, released in 2022, is a compilation album by Beirut that brings together various collected EPs, singles, B-sides, and earlier works, offering a retrospective look at the band's output.

What DVDs has Beirut released?

Beirut has released two DVDs: *Cheap Magic Inside* in 2007, and *Beirut: Live at the Music Hall of Williamsburg* in 2009.

Where can fans find additional media related to the band Beirut?

Additional media, such as images and videos, related to the band Beirut can be found on Wikimedia Commons.

What is the official website for the band Beirut?

The official website for Beirut can be accessed at www.beirutband.com.

What authority control databases list information about the band Beirut?

Beirut is cataloged in several authority control databases, including international identifiers like ISNI and VIAF, and national identifiers from Germany (GND), the United States (LCCN), the Czech Republic (NKC), Norway (BIBSYS), and Israel (NLI). They are also listed in music-specific databases like MusicBrainz and library/archive systems like IdRef.

What was the chart performance of *The Flying Club Cup* in the Netherlands and Ireland?

Beirut's album *The Flying Club Cup* reached number 54 on the Dutch Album Top 100 chart and number 51 on the Irish Albums Chart.

How did *The Rip Tide* perform on the UK Albums Chart?

*The Rip Tide* reached number 49 on the UK Albums Chart.

What was the peak position of *No No No* on the US Top Rock Albums chart?

Beirut's album *No No No* peaked at number 10 on the US Top Rock Albums chart.

Which album by Beirut charted highest on the Swiss Hitparade?

Beirut's album *The Rip Tide* achieved their highest charting position on the Swiss Hitparade, reaching number 29.

What is the significance of the '--' symbol in the discography chart data?

In the discography tables, the symbol '--' indicates that a particular recording did not chart in that territory or was not officially released in that region.

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About Beirut

Global Fusion

Beirut is an American indie folk project, originating in Santa Fe, New Mexico, in 2006. Spearheaded by Zach Condon, the band is celebrated for its distinctive blend of Balkan folk, world music, indie rock, electronica, and baroque pop influences. Condon, the sole constant member, crafts music that evokes a rich tapestry of global sounds and emotions.

Sonic Identity

The project's name, Beirut, was chosen to symbolize a place where cultures converge amidst historical conflict. This theme resonates through Beirut's music, characterized by Condon's evocative vocals, intricate arrangements featuring brass instruments (like trumpet and trombone), ukulele, accordion, and a sophisticated melodic sensibility that transcends geographical boundaries.

Artistic Evolution

From its bedroom-recorded origins to its acclaimed studio albums, Beirut has consistently evolved while maintaining its core artistic vision. Condon's exploration of diverse musical traditions, from European folk to Latin American influences, has cemented Beirut's reputation as a unique and influential voice in contemporary music.

Historical Trajectory

Genesis and Early Years

Zach Condon, born in Santa Fe, New Mexico, developed an early affinity for jazz and diverse musical styles through international films and travel. After formative experiences in Europe, Condon began recording the material that would become Beirut's debut album, Gulag Orkestar, primarily in his bedroom. Early collaborators included Jeremy Barnes and Heather Trost, who contributed significantly to the band's initial sound.

Breakthrough and Expansion

Signed by Ba Da Bing Records, Beirut's debut garnered critical acclaim. Subsequent releases like The Flying Club Cup (2007), influenced by French chanson, and The Rip Tide (2011), which showcased a more distinctively "Beirut" pop sound, further solidified the band's artistic identity. Condon's willingness to experiment, as seen in the March of the Zapotec/Holland EP, demonstrated a commitment to exploring varied sonic territories.

2006: Formation of Beirut; debut performances in New York.
2007: Release of The Flying Club Cup, featuring French influences.
2009: Release of March of the Zapotec/Holland EP, showcasing electronic experimentation.
2011: The Rip Tide released on Condon's Pompeii Records, noted for its unique pop sensibility.
2015: No No No released on 4AD, following a period of personal turmoil for Condon.
2019: Gallipoli released, inspired by travels and a vintage Farfisa organ.
2022: Artifacts, a compilation of EPs and B-sides, is released.
2023: Hadsel, named after a Norwegian island, is released to critical acclaim.

Influences and Philosophy

Condon cites influences ranging from jazz legends and Fellini's cinematic scores to Sicilian funeral brass and Balkan folk music. His approach to music creation emphasizes authenticity and emotional resonance, often drawing inspiration from personal experiences and cultural exploration. This dedication to artistic integrity has guided Beirut's consistent output and critical reception.

Discography

Studio Albums

Beirut has released a significant body of work, charting their evolution through distinct sonic phases. The following table details their primary studio album releases and chart performance.

Title	Details	US	US Rock	AUT	FRA	GER	IRE	NLD	NZ	SWE	SWI	UK	Sales
Gulag Orkestar	Release date: May 9, 2006 Label: Ba Da Bing	—	—	—	—	—	—	—	—	—	—	—	US: 79,000
The Flying Club Cup	Release date: October 9, 2007 Label: Ba Da Bing	118	—	—	64	—	51	54	—	—	94	69	US: 78,000
The Rip Tide	Release date: August 30, 2011 Label: Pompeii Records	80	15	20	42	69	89	28	26	52	29	49	US: 93,000
No No No	Release date: September 11, 2015 Label: 4AD	46	10	12	24	38	62	13	39	—	38	37
Gallipoli	Release date: February 1, 2019 Label: 4AD	—	42	10	75	21	—	36	—	—	21	61
Hadsel	Release date: November 10, 2023 Label: Pompeii Records	—	—	40	—	68	—	—	—	—	—	—
A Study of Losses	Release date: April 18, 2025 Label: Pompeii Records	—	—	—	—	79	—	—	—	—	97	—
"—" denotes a recording that did not chart or was not released in that territory.

Compilations & EPs

Beyond studio albums, Beirut's discography includes significant compilation work and EPs that offer deeper insights into their creative process and early explorations.

Artifacts (2022) - Compilation of EPs, singles, and early works.
The Guns of Brixton / Interior of a Dutch House (2006) - Split single with Calexico.
Lon Gisland (2007) - Early EP release.
Pompeii EP (2007)
Elephant Gun EP (2007)
March of the Zapotec/Holland EP (2009) - Dual EP featuring Zapotec-inspired tracks and electronic music under the "Realpeople" moniker.

Personnel

Core Members

Zach Condon is the principal songwriter, vocalist, and multi-instrumentalist, adeptly playing trumpet, ukulele, accordion, and various keyboards. He is consistently supported by a core group of talented musicians in live performances and studio recordings.

Zach Condon – Vocals, Trumpet, Flugelhorn, Ukulele, Accordion, Keyboards
Nick Petree – Drums, Percussion, Melodica
Paul Collins – Bass Guitar, Upright Bass
Kyle Resnick – Trumpet
Ben Lanz – Trombone, Sousaphone, Glockenspiel
Aaron Arntz – Piano, Keyboards

Former Contributors

Over the years, numerous musicians have contributed to Beirut's sound, enriching its diverse instrumentation and live presence. Their contributions have been integral to the band's dynamic performances.

Jeremy Barnes – Drums, Percussion
Heather Trost – Violin, Viola
Jason Poranski – Guitar, Mandolin, Ukulele
Kristin Ferebee – Violin
Jon Natchez – Baritone Saxophone, Mandolin, Glockenspiel, Keyboards
Tracy Pratt – Trumpet, Euphonium, Flugelhorn
Greg Paulus – Trumpet
Kelly Pratt – Trumpet, French Horn, Glockenspiel, Keyboards
Jared van Fleet – Piano
Perrin Cloutier – Accordion, Cello

Related Ventures

Realpeople

Realpeople is Zach Condon's electronic music side-project. Under this moniker, Condon produced his first, albeit unreleased, album, The Joys of Losing Weight, at the age of fifteen. The Holland EP, included with March of the Zapotec, is also credited to this project, showcasing Condon's versatility beyond the primary Beirut sound.

Pompeii Records

Founded by Zach Condon in 2009, Pompeii Records serves as the independent label through which Beirut releases much of its music. This venture grants Condon and the project significant creative control over their artistic output, beginning with the March of the Zapotec/Holland EP.

Soft Landing

Soft Landing was a collaborative project initiated by Beirut members Paul Collins (bass) and Perrin Cloutier (accordion), alongside Mike Lawless. Their self-titled debut album, released in 2010, was described as a more pop-oriented and energetic iteration of Beirut's aesthetic, blending elements of freak-folk with danceable rhythms.

1971

Operating under the name "1971," Condon, alongside friend Alex Gaziano, released the EP Small-Time American Bats. Recorded around 2002 when they were approximately 16 years old, this project offered another glimpse into Condon's early musical explorations.

Guest Contributions

Collaborative Efforts

Zach Condon has lent his musical talents to various other artists, contributing instrumentation and vocals to diverse projects. These collaborations highlight his broad musical network and stylistic adaptability.

A Hawk and a Hacksaw: Condon played mandolin, trumpet, and ukulele on their album A Hawk and a Hacksaw and the Hun Hángár Ensemble.
Alaska in Winter: Contributed trumpet and ukulele to the album Dance Party in the Balkans.
Grizzly Bear: Featured on tracks from their EP Friend.
The New Pornographers: Contributed to their fifth album, Together.
Blondie: Played trumpet on their 2011 album Panic of Girls, including a ska cover of Beirut's "A Sunday Smile."
Red Hot Organization: Performed a cover of Caetano Veloso's "O Leãozinho" for the charity compilation Red Hot + Rio 2.
Sharon Van Etten: Provided guest vocals on the track "We Are Fine" from her 2012 album Tramp.
Mouse on Mars: Contributed to four songs on their 2018 album Dimensional People.

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Beirut: Echoes of the World

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About Beirut ℹ️

🌍 Global Fusion

🎶 Sonic Identity

🌟 Artistic Evolution

Historical Trajectory 📜

👶 Genesis and Early Years

🚀 Breakthrough and Expansion

💡 Influences and Philosophy

Discography 💿

🏛️ Studio Albums

📦 Compilations & EPs

Personnel 👥

🌟 Core Members

⏳ Former Contributors

Related Ventures 💡

💻 Realpeople

label Pompeii Records

🤝 Soft Landing

🏷️ 1971

Guest Contributions 🎤

🎵 Collaborative Efforts

Teacher's Corner 🧑‍🏫

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📜 Important Notice

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

About Beirut

Global Fusion

Sonic Identity

Artistic Evolution

Historical Trajectory

Genesis and Early Years

Breakthrough and Expansion

Influences and Philosophy

Discography

Studio Albums

Compilations & EPs

Personnel

Core Members

Former Contributors

Related Ventures

Realpeople

Pompeii Records

Soft Landing

1971

Guest Contributions

Collaborative Efforts

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Disclaimer

Important Notice