July 10th is a big day for Beat fans as Shout Records will release a complete box set of the bands work. Its sorta hard to imagine these guys have been around since 1978.
The 5-CD Complete Beat box set features all 3 studio albums with bonus tracks, remastered from the original tapes; 2 discs of bonus material most of which is previously unreleased on CD— three sessions recorded with John Peel for his show on BBC Radio, tracks from a live show recorded at Boston’s Opera House, and 12” and dub versions of some of the band’s singles —and a booklet with rare photos and an essay by music scholar Alex Ogg. Both releases have been produced in collaboration with the band.
I never tire of these guys an saw them last year with stunned enjoyment. Very rarely can a band that has been around so long engage with not only the long time fans but 'the kids' as well. The English Beat had the entire Yale crowd on their feet. Ok, so there are no real 'seats' at Toads Place but regardless of this- it was killer.
I would see them at anytime- and actually will this weekend! Fabulous summer fun.. What I find most astounding is Dave Wakefield's voice never ever falters. C'mon the guy has been at it for over 30 years and there is no weakening in the pipes? That to me is the most noteworthy aspect of The Beat. There has to be a voodoo element. You cant be in a ska band with that type of energy for 30 years and not carry some wear and tear…..Dave doesn't. It's somewhat disturbing, but in a great way.
Grab that box on July 10th and dance your ass off. The track list is insane, I have had a change to give this gem a once over (twice) there really is not much more to say about greatness, then its a must have.
