If Tears for Fears developed a fixation for Steely Dan's velvety smooth jazz textures, they probably wouldn't sound too different than Beating Hearts (http://www.beatingheartsmusic.com). Ah, but this duo comprised of Grammy-nominated producer and musician Warren Dennis Kahn and artist Lawrence Stoller sinks its teeth much more deeply than such easy comparisons. This is an impeccable partnership, a selfless give-and-take chemistry that bridges art and commerce. Kahn and Stoller have created a world of wonders, using their imaginations to probe the limits of pop.
Pop?
Yes, pop - but not in the modern sense of the word when pop often defines cookie-cooker radio fodder. Kahn and Stoller collaborate like master sculptors, each shaping his own mark. Listen to the mesmerizing "We're All in This Together" as cinematic hooks stitch together a poignant narrative which seems to be a conversation between man and the Earth itself. "I'm tired of me versus you/Cause we're really just one," the Earth explains to man, seeking a truce. In other words, the Earth is saying, don't blame me if you can't pollute your air and water anymore; treat me well, and we all live.
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The title track opens with atmospheric smooth jazz recalling Sting's "Nothing Like the Sun" album albeit with Peter Gabriel-esque vocal flavors. The Gabriel influence doesn't end there; "Fresh Philosophy" and "Born Naked" have an immaculate sheen similar to Gabriel's finest moments, especially his landmark "So" LP from 1986.
Beating Hearts have a definite '80s feel sometimes, especially on "Fresh Philosophy" with its Howard Jones-like synthetic melodies.
But there is a warmth here that stretches back to the '60s, too, mainly the incandescent glow of late '60s Beatles. Although the record has an uplifting feel overall, the group isn't afraid to toy with darker tones as on "Beating Hearts."
But it's the craftsmanship here that'll make you swoon and keep this record in the disc changer for months.
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