Heroes to Zeros

Light 3

Ugh, yet another British band. There were a couple of songs that were alright, but several songs were whiny and annoying and I had to skip. (2.5)

Removed

Not bad at all. Cool rock music at the turn of the century.

I was not previously with this artist or album. It's a sort of rock with indie influences. There's nothing particularly objectionable here and it has its catchy moments, but there's nothing truly intriguing either. I could take it or leave it.

Decent psychedelic indie rock. Vocals were fine. There were some strange instrumental compositions that were interesting, but they didn't lead to anything more, and ended up feeling gimmicky as a result. 2.5 stars.

I'm not entirely sure why we need this on the list. It's on my shelves, but seldom played. Mostly unremarkable. They've done better. Heard before ✅️ Listened this time ✅️ Revisit ✅️ ★★★☆☆ (6/10) Total reviewed : 318 Already owned : 71 Purchased : 15 To buy : 4 Nope : 228

This had a kinda 80’s vibe. It was solid.

Interesting and enjoyable, but probably requires at least a few listens to not feel kind of all over the place. But might be worth a return!

First listen: 3 stars: neat, enjoyed, but nothing stood out to me and I was ready to listen to something else at the end.

3.5

Not nearly as bad as I expected after reading the reviews. While the music didn't exactly blow me away, it didn't bother me in the least either. That said, I don't really feel the urge to listen to the album again. 3/5

59/100. A laid back electronic rock record. The production is one of its strongest aspects, where they bring in some genuinely interesting instrumentation. At the same time, the pacing can hold it back.

I was a little frightened about this when I skimmed the reviews -- turns out it is perfectly fine, and it follows a trend on this list where British albums get flack by uncultured whingers. I love The Beta Band, and I thank John Cusack for getting me into them. oh, and the production is excellent too.

You know the bit in the film high fidelity when John Cusack puts on Dry the Rain by the beta band and the shop nod their heads along to the quietly building groove. That was my first experience of the beta band and few things bring me as much joy as the bit when the horns come in on dry the rain. This album isn’t as good as that, but opener assessment has a similarly wonderful horn line. The rest of the album alternates between steadily building grooves and meandering songs that don’t quite go anywhere in a really purposeful manner. It’s not an album in a rush to get anywhere

Nice sounds, ok songs. There's some great guitar work and creative genre combinations but the album kinda blends in. It's solid but not much I would return to.

5/10

i probably would have liked this if i first listened to it in middle/high school. sounds like so much stuff from that era. fine

1 - Assessment (a spacious opener that sounds like a slowed-down version of U2's I Will Follow. This one shows a lot of promise from the get-go. Love how everything sounds so far apart and keeps expanding as the song goes on) 4.5/5 2 - Space (a grounded shuffle and some very sparse instrumentation for most of this. I guess if you're trying to communicate space, make everything extremely distant...? This one is a good follow-up to that bright and wide-eyed opener but there's a little bit too much openness in the instrumental breaks) 4/5 3 - Lion Thief (a folky, almost medieval sounding track, complete with close harmonies. A very foresty vibe on this one where the previous 2 tracks scream "outer space." A change like that does not feel out of place on this album for some reason) 4/5 4 - Easy (a lively and bouncy tune that reminds me of walking down the street with a little extra swagger. This song is SCREAMING to be mixed louder but everything is played at such a low volume it's like the band is trying not to wake anyone up) 4/5 5 - Wonderful (a more acoustic piece with some strange sounding harmonies offsetting the ordinary 60s-styled folk melody. This one meanders for a while and feels much longer than its 4 and 1/2 minutes would suggest. The climactic section at the end is nice but it's too little too late for me unfortunately) 3/5 6 - Troubles (atmospheric and a vocal performance very reminiscent of a 70s soft rock singer. The verses are intermittent and come after some extended instrumentals; odd to say as the song is only about 2 and 1/2 minutes in length, but it's concise and gets everything done) 4/5 7 - Out-Side (probably the rockiest track on this album so far, and the only song mixed to the level it should be - seriously, why is everything so hushed? There's an almost punk edge to this one, that is, until the glitches and electronics take precedence. A great opener to what I feel was the band's attempt at creating distinct halves in the CD era) 4/5 8 - Space Beatle (led by a single synth line and a zoned-out vocal performance, there's some occasional bursts of energy here and there, but it feels like they're trying a little too hard to make this song the piece of drifting psychedelia. It's a fine addition but that could use a little more movement to balance it out) 3/5 9 - Rhododendron (the instrumental interlude of this album, led by a couple of synth chords and a simple beat. It sounds like the intro to a song rather than a song itself, but I suppose that's sort of the point) 3/5 10 - Liquid Bird (this one is a quick burst after the 2 tracks drifted around. This is the most anthemic the band sounds on this album and conjures up images of Zoo TV-era U2. Elaborately produced and mixed as it should be -just a little too loud, this one is a definite highlight for how varied and interesting it is) 4/5 11 - Simple (this one is a slow and groovy piece that somehow doesn't slow the album's momentum even coming in after the banger that was Liquid Bird. It again sounds very much like something the Moody Blues would do. It's a pretty good addition to the latter half of this album in all honesty) 3.5/5 12 - Pure For (there's an interesting contrast between a droning electric piano and a plaintive harmonica. It's a little like Spiritualized before all the noise comes in; this album honestly does sound like a synthesis of all the band's favourite influences. This one functions fine as a closer and actually leaves the listener wanting more, which is the best thing any closer can do) 4/5 OVERALL - 7.5/10

Definitely interesting. It's kinda a blend of indie rock/folk with some electronic elements. Cool, but yet somehow kind-of boring.

Not sure anyone needs to hear this before they die, but it was OK.

Kinda mediocre. Almost went 2/5.

Very good, but brighter and more alert than anything else I heard from Beta Band and I'm having a hard time accepting that.

Fun to get another Beta Band album in the collection, and while fewer of the tracks here made it to the "Best of the Beta Band" compilation, it's still a very solid album, and sadly the last from a talented band that couldn't quite stick it out together. My favorites are probably "Assessment" (with a fun video), "Lion Thief" and "Easy", and "Simple" (with a sad but well-done video). I also liked the homage to Siouxsie and the Banshees in "Liquid bird" (and way more homages packed into the somewhat-too-clever video for "Out-side"). A shame they went their separate ways after this, as they could have made several more good albums.

very very cool sound kind of dragged down by shapeless songs, the baffling inclusion of this over their actual most acclaimed release, and the fakest album cover of all time. by far the strongest reaction i had about this was the sheer bafflement of seeing it pop up in front of me for the first time. far from bad tho!

Hmmm the omega shit band huh? Album title change petition: Zeros to zeros

I have no idea what this album is doing here. It isn't that it's bad, it's just mostly unremarkable. It starts off well enough, but then the neo-psychedelia just becomes too much and none of the songs feel like they go anywhere in the middle part.

Experimenty indie rock with a sleepy tone to most of it, it's interesting and it has some good things to offer, the music's just missing a little something to make it come to life

Better than the album cover would have you think. I listened on my bike so didn’t hear very clearly, it might be better than that.

Okay, but no more than that.

Good album. Makes me want to listen to the other albums from this band and Steve Masons solo projects. It’s musically broad feeling, meaning that it’s almost operatic in its scope at times and movement. Overall probably a 3.5 for me. Not sure it hits 4 stars quite.

Chill listen. 3.5/5

jammy, trippy, funky, great vibes very cool sound desing and glitchy grooves feels like a mix between king gizzard and pink floyd, lots of very enjoyable moments but nothing too memorable

three-ro's

Who? Electronic Rock. The album doesn't seem to be very popular on Spotify, and Wikipedia says that the album only got better than average reviews (3 - 4 stars, no 5 stars), so I can only assume that the compiler of this list must be a fan. However, the album is not that bad, but doesn't grab me.

The Beta Band seems to be over represented here (how the have multiple albums while a band like Weezer has zero is beyond me). This has been an occasion complaint of mine in this project. Heroes to Zeros is a solid album, and I think the band had a sizable following that probably thinks this is great. From my perspective there were just so many similar albums from this period that were simply better, and this album feels to me like a lukewarm cup of good quality coffee: it taste good but could be better and more enjoyable, ultimately a little forgettable.

it's fine

Qobuz likes to give me some of these songs. A nice listen overall, slowed down a lot toward the end. 3.5

Fun!

Zero real expectations on this. Solid early aughties rock. Definite influences of early psychedelia. Strong work, but i don't know if it's memorable? Probably the album ive had the least to say about so far. I'm not sad to hear it, but I feel like, even if I was to compile 2002 albums, this wouldnt make the top. There's a lot of music out there. A pretty square 3*. Top track? Liquid Bird really caught me more than anything.

This sounds like AI slop.

A bit of stereotypical 2000's alternative rock and about as risk taking as leaving your car parked, but there were some solid tracks throughout this, although it didn't really hold any stability throughout.

Strange in a way that I don't really care about

I’ve never heard of this band. Can definitely hear the late 70s early 80s influences and it doesn’t at all sound like the early 2000s. They clearly resonated with people but I don’t hear it.

Nice background music. No reason to be on a list of albums you must hear before you die.

Random thoughts: * This album is an excellent reason why 1001 is bullshit. This album is totally fine. I could understand that it might have hot the author a certain way and was his favorite album of 2004. But we don't need 2 Beta Band albums on this list. I'm glad the other one was Hot Shots II. That was all we needed. If this is truly one of the 1001 albums you must hear before you die then this list is too long. * Now that I'm off my soapbox, I did like this album. Even played it through twice today. Lion Thief was probably my favorite track but it was a solid listen. * Definitely not a must listen. But still a good one.

This is fine. Should it be on this list? Probably not.

Loved the fades and static in Liquid Bird, and Assessment was quality. Otherwise, not quite as entertaining as Hot Shots II.

Heroes to Zeros has a very experimental, early-2000s feel, with a hazy, genre-blending sound. I can understand why it might not have achieved major commercial success, but its distinctive atmosphere makes it appealing in its own way.

I think this was was an okay listen, but it was boring and repetitive. The best song on the album was out-side. I think it had a dog barking in it and a telephone. A few other crazy stuff I did like the way they mix all sorts of weird shit together every song sounded like I'd already heard it before. It's a three from me.

Some really interesting stuff in this, but I feel it got a bit tiresome toward the end and ran out of new ideas.

Pretty generic, but at least mildly entertaining

My familiarity with the Beta Band, like most Americans, is rooted in the "Drive The Rain" reference from High Fidelity and a resulting purchase of "The 3 EPs" albums. I generally liked that record, and prefer it to this one. There just seem to be fewer interesting ideas here to build around their indie inspired psychedelic folks. It feels like a band running out of steam. Listenable and occasionally interesting with a few highlights (Assessment, Wonderful), but on the whole completely inessential.

nicer than the name and cover art indicated but remained a bit pale

whole album pretty much sounds the same

Best Track - "Assessment"

Kind of forgettable. Pleasant enough indie psychedelic poppy experiments. Really great rhythm section, nice variety of sounds and textures. Nothing challenging, this album juuust flirts with boredom. Singer was pretty monotonous.

Seeing today’s album and cover art, my first thought was “Oh, that’s that band on the SCOTT PILGRIM VS. THE WORLD soundtrack.” After some rumination on the cinema of Edgar Wright, I realized it was the US movie HIGH FIDELITY where I’d first heard of The Beta Band. I assumed the band was a fictional creation. When I did get around to listening to them — probably THE THREE E.P.’S — all I recall is that I was unimpressed. “Maybe it was the best option [director Stephen] Frears had,” I thought at the time. “Definitely doesn’t strike me as a band Nick Hornby would use in this story.” So, what does a listen to their third album in 2026 reveal? The prog-rock vibe, vocals and harmonies on “Space” and “Lion Thief” bring to mind 1960s Pink Floyd. If not for the crisp production, this might be a lost soundtrack to an unfinished Antonioni film. There’s a lot to like about the music, especially the variety, and “Liquid Bird” is my favorite track. But I can’t get past the banal and uninspired lyrics throughout. Repeating lines like “She’s so wonderful”, “I love your way”, “I love you to pieces” and “I’m so glad you found me” four, eight, sixteen, 24 times is far from poetry. Sure, HEROES TO ZEROS’s musical atmosphere can be interesting at times, but a confessional line from “Space Beatle” sums it up: “What I’m saying has no meaning.”

Heroes to Zeros has a great album cover that instantly sets the mood, and the music follows suit—easy, enjoyable, and perfect as a background groove. Not a standout-heavy record, but consistently pleasant enough to land around a 3.2 for me.

Kind pointless to also include this album when the much superior previous release is already in here. While not a bad album, it just doesn't deliver anything new or worthwhile that that album doesn't also, but better. If they really, really wanted to include another Beta Band record, they could have gone for their The Three EPs compilation instead. Not a proper album, I know, but that didn't stop them when it came to Miles Davis. Key tracks: Assessment

I think with more listens I could really like this, but after an initial listen it was just okay.

The artwork was not giving me much hope but I was pleasantly surprised. Listenable

Meh. I’m not really into The Beta Band.

interesting

not too shabby if I heard this in an Irish pub I would be giving 2.75/5

lowkey not bad

I've heard of the Beta Band from John Cusack vehicle "High Fidelity" and have listened to them a bit because of it. They've never really interested me enough to continue. Some of it's good enough but nothing that really catches me. I'm sure this will repeat in my head again in the future.

Did I like it? More or less. There were some interesting bits, though it was all over the place. Easy was fun, but Wonderful was a skip. Bonus points for being Scottish.

Sounds very much like the last time we ran into the Beta Band. Fine, a bit like Beck, kinda faded into the background.

initial impression: for scottish dudes they're pretty easy to understand halfway through: no bangers yet, but no skips either. overall the songs are well done. 'Lion Thief' is my fav so far. final: Not bad, I don't know why its on this list but not bad. 'Out-Side' is going in the rotation.

this is some of the music of all time

3.5/5 https://rateyourmusic.com/release/album/the-beta-band/heroes-to-zeros/ It's nice and it's kinda up my alley, but it's also nothing really special. As for some other albums post-2000, I don't get the inclusion in this list (especially given some pretty prominent snubs).

Not their best album.

Still sound like a band of Betas, but better than their previous entry on this list.

for a portion of this album they sounded weirdly like Elliott smith

I feel ~okay~ about this album. Nothing special that sticks out, but I marginally enjoyed it

Can appreciate it

enjoyable

[Already rated. Original Review:] Very pleasant listen. Nothing earth shattering here, but a cool record.

Interesting...may require a few more listens but think I'm into it

Beta Band er ålræit. Litt mangel på minneverdige låter her.

Occasionally interesting, but not particularly memorable. Sounds a bit like an amateurish Blur tribute. The only other thing I’ve heard from this band is the Three EPs, which I enjoyed much more.

Really liked it actually

Don't get me wrong, I like the Beta Band. They're quirky, a bit different, you know it's them with the hodge podge of styles thrown at a wall. It's fun. However, they really should only have one album on this list - I think some people could argue if they should have any at all as they never really made any impact when they were around or after. Best Tracks: Assessment; Easy; Out-Side

Listenable, not much else to say

"Lion Thief" and "Wonderful" were catchy and a bit ethereal. That was a nice respite from the tone/pace of other tracks. "Out-side" had a really nice groove. The rest was okay, but nothing memorable.

Some decent tracks

Full disclosure. I listened to maybe half this, Liked it a lot, and got sidetracked. I do not want to say I "did not listen" because I earnestly did start to. I think I would like to spend more time, not only on this album but on the Beta Band more properly, as they seem to be very interesting to my musical tastes. For now, the sake of this 1001 album generator thing I will give them a solid three stars: but on a positive note, that is subject to change.

***a good, easy listening album

Fairly midling unoffensive indie. Didn't hate it, will probably be fine never listening to it again.

Mediocre

Singer has a good voice but music feels a bit throwaway at times

I did not finish it, I listened to half the album but wasn't really pulled in. I didn't necessarily dislike it, I just didn't enjoy it either.

I like the Beta Band. Not sure why this is the album that made the list (maybe there's another?) but I'd listen to it again.

I like it and it has some really good songs. Don't quite know how them having two albums is justified though

nice safe sound a bit primal scream in places ...not a bad thing

I went into this expecting something far blander than what I got. Based on the reputation and some of the commentary around it, I assumed this would be forgettable, vanilla Brit pop. It isn’t that. There’s actually a fair amount of variety here, and the band clearly isn’t just phoning it in or chasing an obvious formula. That said, it still doesn’t fully land for me. I appreciate the textures and the way the album shifts moods, but it rarely pulls me in emotionally. It feels clever and carefully constructed, sometimes to its own detriment. I can admire the craft without feeling much urgency to revisit it. What surprised me most is that there’s more good here than I expected, even if there’s not much I truly love. This sits firmly in the “better than advertised” category for me: not essential, not something I’ll reach for again, but far from the dull misfire I was led to expect.

Interesting indi rock. Sounds like influenced from a couple different places but never completely sounded like someone else.

Too much of everything

I have never heard of this band nor album before. The only name involved in this that I recognized was Nigel Goodrich (who mixed this album) - I have seen his name involved with Radiohead, U2, Beck and other artists I love. I listened to this 3 times in a row. I occasionally find it is reminiscent of artists such as Blur, Gorillaz, Beck, Flaming Lips, and somewhat The Beatles and The Kinks - all of whom I like - not an exact copy or anything but definitely similarities in certain instances. It started growing on me after the 2nd listen and I started liking a bunch of the songs. In particular I really like the 6 song stretch in the middle from "Wonderful" to "Liquid Bird" + "Assessment" and "Pure For". So now I am curious to listen to their other stuff - some of which has many more streams on Spotify. Liked songs on Spotify: 8/12 Rating: 3/5

That turns out not to be a concept album / children's TV series ost

Meh. Any of these records that only appear in one edition of the 1001 and are newer i.e. post 2000 are typically not all that interesting. I guess I'll give it a three in the spirit of my other ratings, as I tend to not get mean when something is just meh, but I could see giving it a two.

I remember these boys getting a lot of hype in the press at the time - that odd time in rock music when you didn't know where the fickle winds of popularity would fall, coming after Nu-Metal and Pop Punk, and before the dreary onslaught of crappy US and UK 'The' bands. And yet, I don't think I ever actually heard any music by this lot. These guys were never going to be the next big thing. They're too weird for a start - not mainstream enough. But they have that quirky quality which will ensure they remain a cult band. There's a lot of good stuff here, songs are varied - even if they do suffer from 'which instrument haven't we tried yet' syndrome. As varied as the songs may be, there's a sense of dullness and repetition within them. Maybe it's the fact that the singer sounds like knock-off Chris Martin, maybe the fact that quirkiness only goes so far, or maybe that this type of music knows no levels - it never goes hard, it never has edge, it never withdraws - there's a definite sense of sameness.

It felt very generic in parts and very interesting in other. right down the middle of the road again with this one

Not bad, but I really only need the Three EP's compilation from this band

I'm very surprised by this one, i expected to hate it!

I enjoyed listening to this, just a good listen overall, good band.

Wild album. Lots of different vibes. It's hit and miss song to song for me.

After The Three EPs, I was disappointed by each subsequent “proper” albums they released. The sound was still there, but the magic seemed reduced and elements of what defined their greatness had become a bit irritating. I never even made it as far as this one, but have since picked up a bargain CD. It’s not a revelation, but to be fair, it is probably my favourite of their actual albums when I expected it to be the worst.

3.8

It was okay but it is understandable why this is a relatively unknown and obsolete band.

Idk by that one jamiroquai song plays in my head everytime i see "hero to zero"

I liked it in parts. Sounded like a slightly more listenable Elbow album

Meh. A 3.

Fine

Good effort. Can't wait for the release version

Not nuh to say. Meh

Very pleasant listen. Nothing earth shattering here, but a cool record.

A nice cruisy Saturday afternoon in the sun with a cold drink. Pleasant and unobtrusive.

nothing really exceptional listenable songs space has some pretty instrumentals easy has some fun ones the harmonies on wonderful need some work but otherwise a lovely song space beatle is nice rhododendron is a calm little interlude liquid bird is probably my fav off this, I like how the guitar and drums sound on this pure for a is a good closer

Great production, pretty good but samey tracks. Favourite tracks: Lion Thief, dunno...

Low 3, pretty basic overall but had some interesting sounds in-between

Solid if unspectacular album. Some good melodies but I wanted it to elevate/change. This is a good mellow album for background reading. Top tracks: "Assessment," "Lion Thief"

Final thoughts: I'd give this a 3.5 if I could. This is good pop album with enough experimentation to keep things interesting throughout, but it lacks a true blue banger. The Three EPs show off this band's talents a little better but I guess it's not eligible for the 1001 because it's a compilation. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------- --Assessment...I like the guitars --Space...a scifi bop --Lion Thief...really dig the way these guys record their vocals. love the dreamy breakdown in the middle --Easy...odd but fun and funky number --Wonderful...starts out of tune. stays that way but it works somehow? --Troubles...pleasant --Out-Side...now for a little rock --Space Beatle...next time a little more Beatle, a little less space --Rhododendron...sounds like christmas --Liquid Bird...lots of things going on. most of it is compelling. these guys definitely are trying things --Simple...I may be a slut for Nigel Godrich --Pure For...sleepy closer

Not as good as the Three E.P.'s but I still like quite a few songs on here. Favorite track: Assessment

Nice but unremarkable

Didn't know anything about them but not bad

2.5/5

This is fun Easy Neo psychedelia A little of blur maybe Some weird fun guitar effect in out-side Some boring songs, the last one wasn't too memorable This was okay

Not bad. Honest straightforward rock with a dash of electronica here and there. Vocals are understated and a bit underwhelming, but the beats keep the songs rolling.

I’ll start with…..this is not what I expected. I expected more Bella Fleck and less electro pop Beatles. I’m trying to figure out why I know of these guys. I don’t hear anything familiar. I guess that says a lot about their reach. If I’m familiar but not familiar with them, that’s a form of Star power because I am a person who keeps my finger on the pulse of coolness via music. Not that these guys are great. Don’t be fooled. This is an so so album with upside. I found myself thinking that I do not like a specific song yet I kept listening as it had just enough that kept me moving on. I’m not impressed . I’m not a new fan. I approve of this though. That’s ok for you to listen. Trust me

A gateway to the 2000s post-punk revival.

Kind of the annoying jangly side of early 00s indie

As someone who read the NME and Select in the late 1990s/early 2000s, it always felt like the music critics were willing The Beta Band to be better than they actually were. This album re-enforced that - I quite liked it, but I'm not sure I'd listen to it again.

Decent album

Regular early 2000s rock album. Some tracks stand out, but the best thing about this record is that it reminded me of how good "Dry the Rain" is (and it is not even on this album).

Jazz is Jazz. Can only listen for so long. Enjoyed it though.

Hypnotic. Find groove, repeat. Fun at first, but a whole album? Becomes a little, well, hypnotic. At their best, in small doses, really interesting (and I really liked Dry The Rain and some other earlier stuff).

I first learned of the beta band when their music was in the movie high Fidelity. I really like their vibe, and they’re probably more of a 3.5 but not quite a four.

Pleasant enough. The most entertaining thing may be their bio. By their own account, they may just be the most important development in music since the invention of the guitar string.

The sound drifts around the room effortlessly. It’s perfect for staring at the ceiling or walking nowhere in particular. It never asks too much, which is actually really nice. It’s not something I’d blast at a party, but it’s great for focusing or zoning out. It’s solid, middle-of-the-road indie rock. Spins: 1 Playlist Additions - Assessment - Troubles - Simple

The album cover is excellent. This album was nice and variety of sound but a bit too middle of the road for me to say anything really about it. The highlights were liquid bird and out-side. Nice but lacked a bit of something

Two Beta Band albums feels excessive for this list. The last one was their seminal one, this is ok but doesn’t add anything new? Maybe it’s just for the cover

British, throw it on the pile

The album art was much more interesting than the album itself. It seems like they tried to do more things than they were good at.

Derived from many bands and it shows: the Doors, Sneaker Pimps, etc.

Didn't expect a blend of trip-hop with a few rock elements in this album, it was soft and nice to listen to. Will listen to it more often.

Have never heard of this band, but they give me 80s vibes a little bit and I like them. Another good find through 1001 Albums Generator!

I had a good time with this album but I have to question if this really deserves a spot on a list that's supposed to be 1000 of the best of all time. I think this one could grow on me if I listened to it more, or if I got into the band when I was younger

there's a band called The Hunger. they had one real hit ("Vanishing Cream") and only one CD I ever spent any real time with (Devil Thumbs a Ride). they aren't what I'd call essential listening and I wouldn't think of them right away for my favorite music, but I've got a fondness for that album that is maybe disproportionate to its actual impact. these are honestly some of my favorite kinds of bands. That's what this album feels like. I like it! it's neat! I do not understand why the beta band has two albums on this list.

Pretty good but nothing too special. Horrendous album cover

pleasant

Is anyone representing the zeros more than Alexander Isak at the moment? For 600 million, he really has been dog shit. How about his 300 millon teammate Timo? He's at least ran around a bit though.

I wanted to hate this album after reading their Spotify “about the artist” narrative. It was so self-congratulatory, it was Trumpian. It starts off, “Arguably one of the most acclaimed and loved bands of the time,” and it goes downhill from there. I was familiar with Dry the Rain, which is great, but not a lot else. The first time through, I thought it was fine but it didn’t really grab me. I liked it better the second time and appreciate the range of sounds and influences. They are mostly atmospheric indie pop but sometimes head directly into the party and occasionally even get funky.

3/5 - I liked this well enough. Probably would have been a better listen with headphones to hear all the sounds. Felt like middle of the road british indie music. Essential? Not really.

Better than I thought it was going to be based on the reviews. Don't think that was a high bar. Feels very forgettable, but that means that (one song's intro excluded) it was also v inoffensive. Some interesting things here ! Songs added to playlist: - Assessment - Easy - Out-Side

Ok

Totally fine. 3/5 Pleasant, but nothing spectacular or necessary.

Big fan of the album cover but that’s it really…

just ok i think

I got this album when it came out. I didn't think much of it then either.

Throw it on the “bands that don’t need multiple albums on the list” pile (2.5/5)

6/10

This was boring. Production was bad. One song sounded like the beginning bass line to sweet child of mine. Not bad. Not good. Already forgot a huge majority of what I listened to.

Joa

Favorite Track: Easy

Odd fun album. I feel like this band was somehow familiar but had slipped from memory. A decent amount of variety in the arrangement and an interesting slant on folk and rock.

Pleasant and enjoyable, weird energy vibe

Gets better as it goes

Interesting and different, sounds timeless. Just didn't stick with me

I can't remember any of the lyrics, is that a bad sign? I enjoyed the album as background while cleaning. Very Beatles influenced.

There's a mood where this is what I want to listen to, but it doesn't strike me often

Man, I like a lot of what's going on in this album, but I don't love any of it, and I find a lot of the vocals annoying. It was an interesting one, and not unpleasant, but I'll be honest, I have *no idea* what it's doing on this list.

This is a band doing a lot of things I really like, they're just not doing them super well. The music is varied, groovy, and playful. They've got some punk, some psychedelic rock, some jam band swing, they remind me of Cake, they try a lot of stuff! Unfortunately, I agree with the band themselves that they really shouldn't have produced this album themselves, it's... not great. And all the ambition and experimentation never jells for more than half a song at most. They're let down by the vocals and sometimes the music just wanders off. They're getting a lot of leeway from me because I love to see so much musical variety, but ultimately, it's mid, I'm rounding up a 2.5 here. The cover is cute and well done, that's a 4/5.

A very charming, quirky album. I thought I'd tire of it as the album went along. I actually liked it more as it got toward the end. Came very close to a 4 star rating for me.

Pretty good, maybe a 4 but a solid 3 for now

Just like nearly every other American music nerd of a certain age, the Beta Band will likely never fully escape the scene from High Fidelity where Rob says he'll sell five copies of the Beta Band album as he proceeds to drop the needle on "Dry the Rain." And like half of those viewers, I forgot about them shortly afterwards — it's as if they went from Heroes to Zeros then and there. Maybe the band felt that moment as a plunging momentum and they couldn't help but give it a name later when they were putting this record together. They always seemed uncomfortable with the spotlight and that their best defense was self-deprecation and trivialization. So what does it mean to say this album does not disappoint?

7.5

Not my heroes.

Not an unpleasant mix of electronics and rock but nothing particularly stood out for me

I liked Hot Shots II that I got earlier in this project, but this one doesn't strike me nearly as well. It's...fine? Multiple Beta Band albums that I need to hear before I die probably isn't true. It starts off strong with Assessment, goes into the very Beck-sounding Space, but fades away after 4-5 tracks into ambiguity and becomes pretty repetitive as you go through the 2nd half. That said, still a pleasant sound throughout.

Enjoyable indie, never heard of them

Hey, this was pretty solid. A good ‘ol 4-piece band making some unique stuff by reaching out to experimental sounds that break the mold. But not so left-field that it becomes inaccessible. The album cover had me afraid this was going to be some corny pop-punk record but was pleasantly surprised!

Imagine a list of 1001 albums you must hear before you die containing two albums out of the only three made by a band that shot their shot and couldn’t make it.

Highlight Song/s: Easy Didn't like the previous album I got from them (Hot Shots II,) THIS one however improves on the album before it. I really like the emphasises on atmosphere and dance elements on the album. Liquid Bird had me thinking my headphones were bugging out. Not cool man, not cool... I'm still not sold on this band even if they did improve. Instead of a 2 it will get a 3 instead.

I reviewed Beta Band’s Hot Shots II a while ago, but I don’t remember much about it. My review said that it was fine, and I gave it three stars, so I’m expecting more of the same on Heroes to Zeros. This is an interesting album cover though, and quite an artistic departure from Hot Shots II. I wonder if the music will follow suit. Like Hot Shots II, Heroes to Zeros was fine. It was entertaining enough to listen to, but I’d react to songs with a ‘meh’ or ‘oh, that’s kinda nice.’ The opening track, “Assessment,” reminded me a lot of U2. Granted, I just reviewed Achtung Baby yesterday, so maybe it’s recency bias making me think that. The guitar playing on “Assessment” was pretty good, and I liked the horns at the end. “Lion Thief” was good too, and I liked how the gentle guitar tone was supplemented by some darker sounds. The drumming on “Lion Thief” was particularly good, as were the rhythms as a whole. “Out-Side” was the first track that really snagged my attention. The main guitar riff was really good, and the added effects were really good too. “Space Beatle” was good too, and I liked how it started off with a really chill sound before adding some really beautiful layered melodies. “Liquid Bird” was probably my favorite song on the album though. The sampling of Siouxsie and the Banshees was great, and I loved the darker tone and pounding drums and bass. Even though this album had some good songs on it, it’s one of those albums that I forget about as soon as I shut it off. The Beta Band has a unique sound, but to me, they never really don’t really leveraged their strengths much on this album.

Was okayish, didn't listen to it, I don't like the title honestly

Listens: 2 Standout Tracks: I'll be honest. I did not expect to see a second The Beta Band album on the List... I mean... man, I hope to hear some other bands that have yet to come up. Grateful Dead, Modest Mouse, Notorious BIG, Portugal. The Man, Thievery Corporation, ODESZA, Rage Against the Machine, Run The Jewels, Audioslave... If The Beta Band can get two albums, these bands have to be able to get at least one on the List, right? RIGHT!? The music is mediocre. Its average. For the sake of staying objective, I went back and listened to Hot Shots II. Both of these albums hit the level of "oh, this might be interesting..." and then sort of never really rise to the occasion. The music just sort of exists. Before embarking on this journey, I had never heard of The Beta Band, and I had practically forgotten them until their second album (on the List) came up. That's probably what will happen again. Because there's nothing wildly disappointing and it doesn't make me want to pull my hair out, a 3.

2000s rock. Electronic elements. Not very exciting.

This was fine but forgettable. I listened to the whole thing and can’t remember a single song

Wasn't my cup of tea

Wow, I was just talking about Souxie and the Banshees today (album features samples from her). I’ve also been talking a lot about the Baader-Meinhof phenomenon. So much so that it has become the phenomenon. Ok, let me listen to the album. Yes, it's a high 3, for sure. Some crazy electronic/guitar riffs. Honestly, this could have been a 4 if it weren't following a long string of 4 predecessors.

I wouldn’t call this a bad album, but I can’t imagine ever revisiting it. It’s perfectly fine while it’s on, yet leaves no real reason to come back.

This is really fun! But is it is a “NEED TO LISTEN TO THIS BEFORE YOU DIE?” Don’t think so.

Pretty decent fun

Man, I love the Beta Band more than most, and this is a decent record, but I bet even they themselves wouldn't put it near an all time top 1k

Des moments Radiohead, et des moments un peu meilleurs.

ok

Points for being unique

The album was okay. No issues, just not overly interesting. 2.5/5 Probably won’t listen again

No está mal, pero es rara la obsesión de esta publicación con The Beta Band

I just don’t think they’re a band that deserves 1001 status. Not bad and the other album is more deserving but this eh. 3/5

Somehow I crossed paths with Dry the Rain a long time ago and have always loved it. I wish I loved this album the same way, but who knows, maybe it’ll grow on me.

OK, a little unusual at times, especially their videos. Not bad, but don't really hook me

Good album

Ovo im je najbezvezniji album ali ova navika britanskih bendova da pjevaju harmonije preko sunčano depresivnih instrumentala u meni uvik ima plus

Was ok, a couple of strong tracks but overall a little non descript.

Abandoné por un par de días este coso. Pasó lo siguiente: este disco no lo tengo muy escuchado (le tengo cariño a The Three EPs pero no me enganché mucho con lo demás que hizo la banda) y PASARON cosas: el miércoles estuvo el cierre de campaña en Buenos Aires de LLA, haciendo un acto en el que fue muy poca gente y fue muy divertido burlarse de ellos (noche twittera) y el jueves salió SILKSONG. Todo bien con el 1001 albums generator, pero un hombre tiene necesidades, amirite? En fin, Heroes to Zeros está bien pero es un poco decepcionante. Es The Beta Band intentando llegar al mainstream. Nunca entendí porque, porque creo que ya habían decidido separarse después de este disco. Y es un problema un The Beta Band más mainstream, más pop, más accesible... porque Beta Band no hace música más mainstream más pop, más accesible. Lo digo de otra forma: esta es música agradable, pero no se me queda en la cabeza, no tiene melodías espectaculares que tarareo mientras lavo mis turgentes pectorales en la ducha... es música que se queda a medio camino, y eso es un problema. Estoy siendo muy crítico y no es la idea. El disco ESTÁ BUENO. Simplemente se nota que quisieron dar un salto al pop, de ser más como U2 y no lo consiguieron: no es tan memorable..., pero sí es un disco agradable. Por ahí en varios años me termina de hacer click y digo "ah, no, esto es buenísimo", pero parece poco probable. Sobre canciones: hay algunas que creo que podrían haber sido grandes canciones con algún estribillo más pegadizo o incluso con un cantante más adecuado para este tipo de música; otras son canciones que "están bien": no sobresalen pero tampoco son malas, tienen arreglitos y soniditos simpáticos (el disco lo mezcló, después de todo, Nigel Godrich, pero no se le puede pedir mucho más). Canciones que banco: Space: Empieza medio pelotuda y tal vez lo sea, pero los arreglos están buenos y nunca deja de ser interesante. Desconozco si fue single pero podría haber sido el tema del disco. Lion Thief: También está bien. Es la primera canción muy Elbow del disco. Como es la primera todavía no aburre el efecto. Y está muy buena la electrónica de la canción. Lindo título jaja. Out-Side: Otro claro para sonar en las radios (como el primer tema y Wonderful). Este es el mejor del montón. Rhodendron: Es muy simpática. Me hace acordar a música de Charly García. Y eso es una cosa buena. Hay como unos ruidos de distorsión que me caen medio para el orto. Simple: La mejor canción del disco, sin dudas. Anticipa un poco a Vampire Weekend, pero menos freak. Es VW haciendo una canción más normalita. Canciones que no banco mucho: La primer canción: una declaración de principios: "Queremos ser U2". James quiso ser U2 y le salió bien. A ustedes, muchachos, no tanto. Easy: lo más cerca a una canción mala del disco. Quiere cancherear y ser sassy. No lo consigue. Wonderful: Claro single del disco. Si bien tiene algunos leves toques psicodélicos que están buenos, la veo apuntando a la radio con demasiadas ganas. Y es un tema largo, dura como 5 minutos. Canciones como Space Beetle o la última: son canciones breves con arreglitos de Godrich copados. Están bien, pero siento que no van a ningún lado. Bueno, y toda otra canción que no nombré. Tres estrellas, pero son tres estrellas que duelen: Si hubieran tenido un poco más de pelotas o si el disco tuviera una GRAN GRAN canción hubieran obtenido 4.

This was far from blowing me away, but it's a nice dreamy soft rock album and I enjoyed listening to it

When I'm told that a band is compared favorably to Oasis, Blur, and Radiohead, I am filled with dread, for I do not enjoy these bands. Oh sure, there might be a track here and there, but for the most part I do not like their albums as experiences. So imagine my surprise, when, with as much of an open mind as I can muster, I am genuinely find myself enjoying this album. I personally do not hear anything about this album that suggest either of their predecessors. As a new act to me, perhaps that was in reference to their earlier albums. All I know is that it did not, in my opinion, reek of the British Brit Pop BS that litters this list. To me this was an album that did not forget to bring the hooks. A genuinely good folk/electronica album that doesn't suck. Seriously, there are far fewer of these than you might think. And thank you for keeping the album to a trim 42 minutes! There was just enough song differentiation that kept my attention, but not enough to frustrate my album listening experience. As a decades long comics fan, their album cover is totally in my lane. I still think that the Naughties were the worst decade of albums releases in all of Western Popular Music history, but apparently there are a few more gems out there that I had not yet heard. Favorites were "Space", "Lion Thief", "Out-Side" and"Rhododendron".

A principal virtude do álbum é sua riqueza de temas e arranjos, que o fazem um disco bastante diversificado e agradável, trazendo canções pop com inspirações psicodélicas.

Never heard of this band before and probably won't again after this.

Like it 3/5

It has some interesting songs but is mostly average at best. 3 stars or C-.

I was clement with their #171 "Hot Shots II" that I knew and (once) liked songs of, partially out of nostalgia and in a vast anthology of recorded music, for all I care, The Beta Band might even earn a mention. But not two. This doesn't add anything to either their work or music in general. Boring. Another spot wasted...

Ok. Not memorable. Might have to listen again to appreciate.

This was OK. Nothing special. Couldn't see myself going back to listen to it again.

Some very cool tunes that I had not heard before.

Hidasta tahtia ja haikailevaa tunnelmallista meininkiä jota osaan kyllä arvostaa

I really wanted to like this more than I did but ultimately it is lacking in something. There are some promising ideas and moments but they don’t go anywhere. The potential is there. Disappointing

It's an okay album. Nothing amazing though. I don't even know exactly what the genre is... Pop/Rock?

Almost every song is intriguing but they all feel undercooked

Cool art, neat style, not much substance.

It’s just so bland. I might give it three stars just because it didn’t necessarily annoy me. Three stars is my equivalent of “meh”, and this is definitely a “meh” album. Not sure how it got on this list

They didn’t need 2 Beta Band albums on the list. This one notably less popular than The Three E.P.’s. Luckily for Beta Band I quite like aimless indie music. The vibe of this band I like. I would say though that the production quality was poor - so understand why the band regret doing it themselves. 3/5

Today is a solid 3 for me, i love elements of it that remind me of Doves and Elbow and i think Godrich did a good job on the mixing save! It sags quite a bit in parts though and half the tracks felt noticibly weaker - i will check out some more of their stuff

Interesting rock / fusion project. Calming to listen to. Some bops First listen: 6/10

Tem suas inspirações óbvias, mas parece um álbum datado. Hoje em dia ouvindo, parece uma soundtrack de filme dos anos 2000. Mas não é de todo ruim. O finalzinho é interessante, principalmente em Out-side e Space Beatle.

Fairly pleasant, nothing too weird. But really quite bland. Thinking back, I can’t remember a single track. Nothing stood out, and I couldn’t even identify anything that might have been a single. *shrug*

tío que es esto? 😭 vale pensaba que era de una serie de superhéroes PUJAJAJ, la verdad que no está mal 3.5/5

was okay, kinda interesting at points but nothing major

Mmmmmmmmeh.

I liked this one a bit better than the last of their albums (kudos for getting Kaare Andrews to do the cover art; he is one of my faves as a comic artist). But I fail to see why we needed a SECOND album of this on the list. They only have three albums and 3 EPs. The two albums listed are not starkly different from each other. The first one I rated a 3, this one gets the same. Top tracks: "Wonderful," "Liquid Bird," "Pure For," "Space Beatle"

I mean, it was alright. Some good moments, some more forgettable. At times the new age, indie alt electronica was too much. Was there any song I particularly liked? Shrug. Maybe Out-Side?

Good few tracks

Another one that I don’t understand why it’s here.

Good

Feels like it was on the verge of something great but didn't quite get there

I don't particularly like it. It's different enough to be on the list. Favorite song: liquid bird.

Kände inte till detta band men lät bra!

The formula of strong bassline and Beach Boys type harmonies continues, as on the flowing 'Space'. However, so does the generally disinterested feel of every track. Some gems shine through, 'Lion Thief' in particular, which is a succession of great passages around a funky beat. I love 'Rhodedendron' and would have loved to have seen more of this. An effortless piece of synth and harpsichord-led baroque pop. Tantalisingly brief. Then there's 'Out-Side' which has an energy but simply no lasting impression. The Beta Band to me seems like a band that has been handed a collection of great melodies. And they've done their best to make them feel quite uninspiring. As with 'Hot Shots II' a little harsh to go for a 'two' rating. This scrapes a three by the barest of margins.

I gave a quick 2nd listen to a few tracjs which allowed me to enjoy this much more. Got some Alt J vibery to it.

A lot of good songs which had me surprised I hadn’t heard of them previously

Never heard of this band but I kind of liked it. Enjoyed the blend of electronic and rock

Awful album cover, alright music

curti algumas músicas, mas nada demais

Heroes to Zeros manages to be a solid album from an interesting band who have always forged their own unique path, without having any real stand-out songs or massively memorable moments. The kind of album you don't really think about much once the final track has played out - it holds your interest for it's duration, but I'd imagine for anyone who is not a fan this represents the least of The Beta Band's LP outings, despite being the most accessible and upbeat in many ways. I like it, but I can see why many might not.

Some nice indie psychedelic rock tunes, never blew me away but a pleasant listen

This had kind of a cool sound to it, but I got tired of it about halfway through

Some interesting ideas, and a sound I actually kindda like. I absolutely cannot stand the vocals though.

Decent Not as good as their other one but good

Fave Tracks: Assessment, Space Beatle, Pure For Liquid bird kinda sounds like a Ween song. 3.2/5

No idea why you would call yourself beta ever.

Overall, this was an average album mixed with mostly upbeat and good vibey music. While I wouldn't probably listen to it again, the experience itself of the first listen-through wasn't negative so it will receive the average 2.5/5 and be bumped to 3.

This album felt like it was meant to be epic and significant but it just fell flat of that for me. Not to say that it was unlistenable or boring. It just didn't really stick the landing.

Schattig schijfje. Ze vonden het zelf matig geproduceerd, lees ik. Het voordeel daarvan is, dat het uitstraalt dat de band dit echt wil maken. Ik heb me er ook geen moment aan gestoord. Ik zal dit album niet zomaar nog eens opzetten. Maar als het aanstaat, zal ik het ook niet uitzetten. Toch wil ik deze 3 geen vergeetbare 3 noemen. Daarvoor is het te sympathiek.

Vanaf de eerste klanken ademt dit zeroes. Ik ben ze gek genoeg nooit tegengekomen op de grotere of kleinere festivals. Had denk ik prima gepast, ik vind het wel aardig klinken, als een soort Elbow en aanverwanten. Het is ietwat psychedelisch en zweverig (ook wel sfeervol genoemd als het je bevalt), met wat elektronische invloeden en soms ook een fijne rocky basis. Ik mis zoals wel vaker een hitje. Sowieso valt de hitgevoeligheid een beetje tegen van de nummers, al luisteren we daarvoor niet naar een albumlijst op zich. Een of meerdere hitjes had het album wel wat meer aanzien gegeven. Het verkent nu soms teveel de grens tussen sfeervol en zweverig. Uiteindelijk heeft het iets herkenbaars in zich, maar is het ook uitermate vergeetbaar. Dan ben ik bang dat ik op een 3 uit ga komen. Overigens zijn zowel de snobs als de goegemeente deze band en dit album ook vergeten. De wiki weet weinig noemenswaardig te melden en in mijn papieren versie van de lijst is dit album al weggehaald. Ik stel me zo voor dat dit de persoonlijke favoriet was van een van de meewerkende auteurs, die hoopte dat het zou uitgroeien tot een cultklassieker en dat hij dan kon zeggen dat hij het altijd al een goed album vond. "Kijk maar, ik heb het toen al in de lijst gezet!". Hier zou het eigenlijk een extra strafpunt voor moeten krijgen, maar de snobs zijn tenminste tot inkeer gekomen en hebben het er al snel weer uitgehaald. Ik blijf bij de vergeetbare 3.

Generally a fan of this band, but this album petered out a bit for me after the first few tracks. They become repetitive and at times grating, and had me skipping early to hear the next track and just get to something different. "Assessment" is a banger though.

I did really appreciate this, saw a description as something in-between blur and alt-j and totally agree

Музыка своего времени, песни хорошие. Лучшая песня - Liquid Bird.

A decent rock album that incorporated some electronic sounds, but not in a way that really excited me

Nothing too special, another easy listening one

The style is somewhere between Stone Roses, Catherine Wheel, and Beck, but like a Lite version. Songs are well structured and have a strong rhythm, but it seems like they never really reach or strive to get out of their comfort zone. Not bad at all, but I can’t imagine returning to it.

Weird kinda generic britpop but like on a slightly different drug than the rest of Britpop. I’m a sucker for this kinda vibe and I enjoyed this.

This feels a generic British album, which means that it is totally at home on this list.

Had a bit of psychedelic 60's feel to it throughout. Not a bad listen

Its ok but why is this an album i need to listen to?

Decent, but nowhere near as good as their previous album. I love their previous album but this album should not be on this list.

Sometimes I think the algorithm is not coincidental, we had all those 60s psychedelic albums last week, and then it’ll give you like 3 Bjork albums in a row. Funny to be Beta Banding again so soon, this is real real good, but maybe because I heard the other one so recently it suffers in comparison. But still highly good.

Almost back to back in the Beta Band. I didn’t like this as much as the other one. It was still pretty good, but not a 4.

Ned so meins hab's Ned ganz gehört

There’s some interesting sounds on here but they don’t always quite take them interesting places. Maybe a 2.76 stars but much better than the garbage Byrds country album y’all made me listen to.

Bien sans plus

I like The Beta Band, but this is not their best work and is not deserving to be listed.

Just a bunch of confusing noise. No purpose

Sounds good but nothing of note that really stood out. Album washed over me, it was a good listen but I couldn’t tell you which song is which and I doubt any of these will make a playlist or warrant a second listen. Beta Band is right Lol

Liked this more than I thought I would. Eclectic, unique sound. Cool production. Interesting to listen to. I like the dreamy, echoey vocals too. Quite repetitive though, and not very cohesive.

Hmmm.. liker jeg det? Kanskje

this album would be better if they were a bunch of fuckers

I wanted to rate this 4 stars, but then I listened to it all the way through. It all seems fine, I don't understand what all the fuss is about.

not sure how much i’ll return to this one, but i quite liked it 3.5

First off, the cover artwork is stellar, so my expectations were high, despite never actually listening to The Beta Band (except for a snippet in the film, High Fidelity). It starts strong, but loses a bit of energy towards the end. It was a bit of a letdown, but overall it was a fine fun listen with a lot to like with plenty of catchy melodies and grooves. Nothing special here, so I question it's inclusion on the list, but there are a lot of worse gloomy shit to listen to on a warm sunny afternoon. Three thumbs up!

Mellow rock, enjoyable but nothing stood out

This reminds me of an 80s sci-fi movie, where they imagined the world would be like in 2025.

Progehko indiepop, eli mun alueella. Pidinkin niistä elementeistä, joista tuli Flaming lips ja Death hawks mieleen. Easy on hyvä erottuva biisi (joskin uskon, että joistakin rasittava), lehmänkellosta pisteet!

I've heard of The Beta Band before but didn't know much about them. Good album, but it's nothing special compared to the rest of the list

Judging from the album cover, I was kind of hoping to hear some NES-inspired, ultra nerdy ADHD-fest involving a whole bunch of chiptune; now that would have shaken this list up. Instead I got a kinda interesting, kinda quirky indie rock record, a bit like a Ween lite. I can't really complain in the end, although the overall sound definitely outshines the actual songwriting.

Didn't care much for their previous release but sure let's have a 2nd album by a band nobody knows outside of a few UK pockets - I guess you get Radiohead's producer and that'll elevate you in the NME. Hate the album cover so we're off to a rough start. And the music .... ok fine. It's not bad. It's a bit as I remember their last one - a singer with zero emotion - and I recognize my hypocrisy since I hate singers but this is approaching slackerdom which is probably what got me to hate singers in the first place. Better vocals and a tweak or 3 here and there would have made this something. Jeez even an all black cover would be better - you could see yourself in both sides.... It's fine. We do not need 2 from this band. We might not need 1. 5/10 3 stars

Interesting.. modern psychedelia I guess?

2000's Scottish electronic rock. There was some interesting moments ("Lion Thief", "Easy", and "Out-Side") but for the most part it just felt like low-budget Gorillaz.

I like the vibes overall, but nothing really stood out. 3 Stars.

Aburridisimo. Algunos temas parecían armarse lindo y mmmm nada. Nota aparte, amé el simpleo a Painted Bird de Siouxsie, solo por eso le subo puntos. Nota: 2.7

I really dig a few songs from their other albums, but 1st time listening to a full record by them. Good, but nothing really stood out. Maybe I need to give it a few more listens to really make a connection with it.

Kinda boring and pretty forgettable. Not offensive or anything, just very meh. 3/5

This is the second Beta Band album on this list. Neither was bad by any means, but I'm struggling to figure out why I had to listen to them before I die.

Not bad. Not my favorite of their albums, but it’s ok.

I remember listening to this and then instantly forgot everything about it

"I shall now sell 5 copies of The Three EP's by the beta band." That moment will be the most famous this band will ever be. Their music is fine. But nothing special. The movie should have picked Elbow or something for more impact. This particular album has two or three really good tracks. But the rest is filler.

Not bad.

On replonge aujourd’hui dans les méandres de ma discothèque et, plus précisément, dans ce fameux pavé des « 1001 Albums qu'il faut avoir écoutés dans sa vie ». C’est parfois une bénédiction, souvent une malédiction, et aujourd'hui, c'est surtout un petit pincement au cœur. On va parler de The Beta Band et de leur chant du cygne de 2004 : Heroes to Zeros. Alors, remettons les choses dans leur contexte. On est en 2004 et pour moi, qui ai passé les années 90 à bouffer du son en radio indépendante et à conseiller les clients dans mon shop entre 96 et 2000, The Beta Band, c’était un peu les cousins bizarres mais géniaux qu’on adore inviter aux fêtes de famille parce qu’on sait qu’ils vont ramener des trucs improbables à boire. Après leurs premiers EP et cet album éponyme qui avait tout cassé, on attendait toujours d'eux l'impossible. Heroes to Zeros, c’est le disque qui clôt l’aventure. Et comme souvent avec les séparations, c’est un mélange de soulagement et de tristesse. On y retrouve ce qui a fait leur sel : ce grand mixage de folk psychédélique, d'électronique et de bidouilles sonores. C’est un album hybride, un peu hip-hop sur les bords, un peu funky, très pop mais toujours avec ce pied dans le folk. Le groupe écossais n’a rien perdu de sa science du mélange, et pourtant, le résultat me laisse sur ma faim. Le problème majeur, et je le dis avec tout l'amour que je porte à leurs précédents travaux, c'est le manque de cohérence. On a l’impression d'être face à un assemblage de morceaux disparates, jetés là sans véritable fil conducteur. Dans mon magasin, si je l'avais reçu à l'époque, j'aurais probablement eu du mal à savoir dans quel bac le ranger : "Expérimental" ? "Indie" ? "Fourre-tout" ? C’est accessible, oui, peut-être même trop par moments, mais la magie s'est un peu évaporée. Certains titres manquent cruellement de cette énergie brute, de cette folie douce qui faisait qu'un morceau du Beta Band pouvait vous transporter sans prévenir. C’est un adieu en demi-teinte. On sent qu'ils ont voulu bien faire, que la production est soignée, mais l’étincelle n'est plus là. C’est propre, c'est pro, mais ça manque de tripes. Au final, ce sera un 3/5. C’est un album correct, plaisant à l’oreille, mais qui ne parvient jamais à la cheville de leurs débuts. C’est le disque qu'on écoute en se disant « Ah, c'était quand même bien, The Beta Band », tout en sachant pertinemment qu'on va vite remettre The Three E.P.'s sur la platine pour retrouver le vrai frisson. Un départ honorable, mais sans les honneurs de la guerre.