Artist: Beat Happening Album: Black Candy

Year: 1989
Duration: 29:58

A of the Album: Black Candy by Beat Happening

Beat Happening is an American indie rock band formed in Olympia, Washington, in 1982. They are widely considered to be one of the catalysts of the lo-fi movement, characterized by an intentionally low-fidelity recording style and a DIY aesthetic. The band consists of Calvin Johnston, Heather Lewis, and Bret Lunsford. Black Candy is their fourth studio album, released in 1989. In this post, we will dive into this album, explore its unique style, and provide a of its content.
The album opens with the track Tiger Trap, which is an upbeat and adventurous song with Johnston's sonorous vocals front and center. Black Candy and Cast a Shadow follow, both of which are a perfect blend of Johnston's musicality, Lewis's drums, and Lunsford's bass guitar. Cry for a Shadow stands out as a more melancholic number, a ballad dripping with sentimentality. The highlight of the album, however, is the final track Nancy Sin, an upbeat, almost joyful number that perfectly reflects Beat Happening's unique sound.
The album's unique blend of rock, punk, and lo-fi elements make it a true gem of modern music. With songs like Knick Knack, Gravedigger Blues, A Good Man, and Sleepy Head, Beat Happening takes listeners on an unpredictable musical journey. The album also captures the DIY spirit of the band, with a rawness that feels almost palpable. It's clear that they put a lot of effort into creating this album, and it pays off monumentally.
One of the most innovative aspects of the album is Calvin Johnson's singing style. It's intriguingly deadpan at points, sarcastic at others - yet, it always aligns with the songs' ethos. Johnson has a unique ability to channel his emotions into the music without making it appear forced or insincere. This is what makes Black Candy such a good listen.
Despite the album's many positives, it's not without flaws. For a start, the band's sound can be a bit too raw for some listeners, and at times, the songs can feel repetitive. Furthermore, the record's 14 songs will most likely overwhelm those who prefer shorter albums that get to the point more quickly. However, these critiques do not detract from the fact that Black Candy is an excellent album with a lot to offer music lovers.
Beat Happening's Black Candy is an album that deserves more recognition than it currently has. It captures the band's signature style immaculately, and it's always refreshing to listen to a band that's unafraid to break the mold. This album is an excellent listen from start to finish, with the band's inventiveness and musicality on full display. While it may not be a perfect album, Black Candy is still a must-listen for all music lovers looking for a unique experience.