I already liked the band Beirut, but when we recently purchased the double EP March of the Zapotec & Realpeople: Holland, I sort of lost my mind.  I listen to them all the time, although it's terrifyingly hard to find their album in iTunes because I have a hell of a time spelling Beirut.

So far I've learned that it starts with a B and is followed by an E and and I, but I'm never quite sure what order those two are in.  Yes, I'm s-m-r-t.

Anyway, the double EP's first half is folky sounding Eastern European-ish marching songs they recorded in Mexico with the help of Oaxacan march masters The Jimenez Band. The second half is techno-y, dreamy, and just as catchy. There's even an instrumental, which should be a crime because Zach has an amazing voice, but it's wonderful, too.  I love me the computer beeples.

I know it sounds like an improbable combination, but it *works* like magic.  I really can't stop listening to this album (unless it's to listen to Shampoo).

Here's a song from the EP's first half:


Here's a song from the EP's second half:


Before I wrote this post I had no idea how adorable and young this guy is.  He's got the voice of a seasoned Lothario ... and mad talent.