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There is some debate as to whether In Media Res the latest 12" from Beefcake is supposed to be played at 33 or 45. I've found that it can be listened to at either, though successive listens suggest that it should really be 45. This is particularly evident in the vocal samples through the release and some of the drums - both of which slow down just a little too much. However at 33 In Media Res is a remarkably mellow release and some pleasure can be attained from the easy melody. While at 45 it is a considerably more upbeat and infectious record.

As with Spontaneous Human Combustion, Beefcake have not been big on track titles on In Media Res, only seeming to note their durations. First side, first track and we have a light tapping beat with sighing melody. A second beat is added, offering a thicker sound to the percussion. Notes are added, clean, round and complimentary to the melody, with a bass vibe sliding through backgrounds. Very easy listening, progressing with slow shifts and detail. Melody reprises while a tum-tum beat plays out with piano notes on a bass scale. A manipulated voice groans and we are into the second track. Altogether a different mood as the beats are twitchy and on edge, while backgrounds are oily swirls. This piece thickens its beat structures, harking more to the threat Beefcake can hold. Building a tense atmosphere, motions rapid, while the sum drifts. Progression is taut and controlled, totally consistent. Motion is an eventuality to be accepted.

Moving to side 2 we have a fluid undertow, a bubble which then bursts with rapid tinny beats. Encompassing piano notes are delivered in to the mix, and we are enthralled. The beats shift through varying effects, remaining a speeded constant, contrasting the slow melodies which come in as they please. A voice seems to tell you its "alright", but that's okay because you never felt doubt for this electronic joy. For all the easy melody I find myself moving again, plugged in by headphones to that infectiousness. Then we are into the final track, plucking a tune while voices display a giggling euphoria. Beat taps out, a tickling of timing and a child laughs - filled with good, wholesome Beefcake joy! While the last two tracks demand an element of motion, this piece has kicked back in the comfy seat, eyes closed with an uncomplicated smile....ahhhh.

In recent times we have developed a saying - "it's good, but it's not Beefcake". Well In Media Res certainly is Beefcake and we suggest you deal with it - a must for Beefcake fans and less of a surprise than Coincidntia Oppositorum which is released at the same time.

RVWR: PTR
July 2000

More Information

hymen

label site.

Polycontrale Contra Punkte

re:mote review of beefcake's first cd

Spontaneous Human Combustion

re:mote review of beefcake's first 12"