Customer Reviews

Human Engine

5 star:		(2)
4 star:		(2)
3 star:		(0)
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Wow, after listening to John Beltran for some time now and owning practically everything he's put out I must say that I was pleased to hear his earlier sound throughout this release. Listening to it brings back memories of hearing his Earth & Nightfall or 10 Days of Blue albums for the first time. After three full length releases with a latin house style, Mr. Beltran brings us a fresh new release with soft melodies, gentle guitars, and pleasant vocals scattered throughout. "Here and Now" plays around with an IDM style sound that reminds me of his Placid Angles and Indio side projects. "Sweet Soul" and "If I Fall" has 10 Days of Blue written all over it. "Heavier Than Love" has that beautiful ambient string sound to it that could easily bring tears if listened to on a lonely grey overcast day (step aside Robert Smith). I've been listening to this CD for nearly 5 days straight and have not found one weak track. That's rare and unusual for me to play a CD without quickly hitting the "next" button. Destined to be a classic!

John Beltran's Album is that rare act of balance that lands right between downtempo and ambient. This Album gives techno a good name. The electronic tracks are sometimes not so electronic, as you will hear drums, guitars and other acoustic instruments. The greatest achievement is that Beltran manages to keep such a beautiful emotive theme going throughout all the tracks of this Album. Its very easy to put this Album on 'repeat' and lose track of an entire day!

Its great to see that Beltran has gone back to his more melodic roots. I love everything he's done, but this is a little piece of genius. Its the soundtrack to a hazy day, sometimes a little sad and dark, but the sun is always just about to come out behind the clouds. Good Job Mr. Beltran.

As a new listener to John Beltran, Human Engine is a bubble of beautiful downtempo electronica. I love it...especially "A Mind Blows Everyday". Great for a drive to the ocean!