Rating: 
Whether The Middle East are still together is not apparent to me, the group was formed in 2005 and had already separated by the time their first album had been released in 2007. After the success of ‘The Recordings of the Middle East’ the band reconvened and I assume they are still together now as they have rereleased ‘The Recordings of the Middle East’ this time with fewer songs & now available to a wider audience.
Having heard the full eight song album in the past this five track EP was an appreciated change. Other than dropping three of the previous tracks the album remains the same, but does benefit from better pacing. I’ve tried over and over again, but have just not been able to get into this album. The songs sound nice and some, “Blood” for example, are well-crafted, but overall just are too mellow and slow moving to ever grab my attention.
Fans of folksy, jam based musicianship may come to love this collection and if so probably the full eight song album. For the average listener though, ‘The Recordings of the Middle East’ with it’s slow pace and inclusions of seven and a half minute songs just seems like self indulgent art rock.
The Middle East – The Recordings of the Middle East
Track listing:
- The Darkest Side
- Lonely
- Blood
- Fool’s Gold
- Beleriand
October 27, 2009 – Spunk
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The J is approaching his middle ageness the same way he approaches everything, half-assed. He is East Coast raised, but is now roasting slowly in the desert. Musical tendencies sway towards; Old School Hip-Hop, Girl Pop, Lounge, Techno, and other crap. Favorite Artists include: Cake, Ben Folds, Bitter:Sweet, Public Enemy, Fatboy Slim, and you. 
