The Flying Club Cup cover

The Flying Club Cup

Beirut

Album 2007

About this album

Sound: "A lush tapestry of orchestral folk, blending melancholic brass with sweeping melodies and rich textures."

Where they were

Released in 2007, 'The Flying Club Cup' was Beirut's second album, following their breakthrough debut, 'Gulag Orkestar.' At this point, Zach Condon had solidified his unique sound, marked by an eclectic mix of Eastern European influences and indie pop sensibilities, drawing increased attention from both critics and audiences.

Why it matters

The album received widespread critical acclaim and solidified Beirut's place in the indie music scene, reaching number 18 on the Billboard Heatseekers chart. Its distinctive sound inspired a wave of similarly styled indie bands, influencing the folk revival of the late 2000s.

Essential tracks

  • "Nantes" — 'Nantes' showcases the album's signature blend of rich instrumentation and poignant lyrics, capturing a sense of longing and nostalgia.
  • "A Sunday Smile" — This track exemplifies Beirut's ability to fuse upbeat melodies with bittersweet themes, creating a reflective yet joyous listening experience.
  • "Forks and Knives (La Fête)" — 'Forks and Knives' combines intricate arrangements with infectious rhythms, embodying the celebratory spirit that characterizes much of the album.

Release Date

January 1, 2007

Artist Origin

United States

Tracklist

  1. 1 A Call to Arms 0:18
  2. 2 Nantes 3:50
  3. 3 A Sunday Smile 3:35
  4. 4 Guyamas Sonora 3:31
  5. 5 La Banlieue 1:57
  6. 6 Cliquot 3:51
  7. 7 The Penalty 2:22
  8. 8 Forks and Knives (La Fête) 3:33
  9. 9 In the Mausoleum 3:10
  10. 10 Un dernier verre (Pour la route) 2:51
  11. 11 Cherbourg 3:33
  12. 12 St. Apollonia 2:58
  13. 13 The Flying Club Cup 3:05