Proxies - Groovin' Over Beirut

Anna Logue Records has a way with sneaking a release into its roster that eludes my attention, at least that's how it seems. The label has scored some sweet reissues of coveted classics of the 80's like Transparent Illusion and League Of Nations. Anna Logue has also brought attention to underground artists that perhaps don't have the cache to the name but were very talented like the Greek minimal synthpop band, Proxies. The band formed just prior to 1980. Proxies were heavily influenced by the new wave and alternative scenes. The band released Groovin' Over Beirut LP in 1983 on the CVR label out Greece. Just prior to working with CVR, EMI Records showed an interest in signing the band and even Virgin Record expressed interest. If not for the mandatory military service required, they may have signed, but ultimately never signed with either label. in 1984 the band had a huge hit "Fishing Boat" which brought the band a lot of attention and they released their sophmore album Eastern Side Of Love LP. After more lineup changes and two more albums, the band eventually ceased, only to be awakened by Anna Logue Records to reissue the debut 1983 cult album Groovin' Over Beirut LP in 2016 with bonus material. The reissue comes on a limited 2LP (300 copies) and limited CD (200 copies) with the mastering done by Martin Bowes. 

Most of the tracks on Groovin' Over Beirut are very solid new wave minimal wave influenced and filled with crafty programming that gives off a very grassroots DIY feel. The band captures some very poppy vibes that fit well within the era it was originally released. The first track "Photocollage" delivers some really nice synth work paralleled by seamless transitions to the captivating choruses that hook us into the charm of the rhythms. I get the feeling the band did not have a lot to work with in their early years, but they make it work. I found myself heavily drawn to "Let The Radio Play", "Little Lorrane" and "Colour Town". "Color Town" definitely stands out as a top track with its new wave punk vibe. It was not included on the original 1983 LP, but thankfully lives on the reissue as a bonus track. "Little Lorrane" hits us with its catchy chorus partnered with an assortment of bleeps and blips and funky basslines stands out as the most memorable track.  "Fantasy" is another upbeat well procured ear-catcher displaying more groovy synths to keep us intrigued. With the CD version, you get 6 bonus tracks not found on the original release. The previously mentioned "Colour Town" along with "Extacy" and "System" are amongst  the best this CD has to offer.  Every track offers a glimpse into the mindset of an up and coming band with themes generated from the times and experiences of the artists.

The sounds remind me of the simpler times where we were more carefree, exploring our world and trying new things. Proxies found a niche with music. The more I played the album the more I liked it and the more I could relate to it in my own way. At first go around a few songs really stood out, but as I played the songs over and over I became extremely fond of most of the tracks. If not for Anna Logue Records many folks including myself would not have the privilege of hearing this Greek classic LP. 

Perhaps if Proxies did sign with EMI or Virgin early on, would we have heard a more refined sound with more promotion for them on MTV and the other media outlets at the time? They did sign with Columbia for the third album, but by then perhaps their finest hours were in the rearview mirror. Groovin' Over Beirut reissue will certainly appeal to the explorers of fine underground synth. Several songs stand the test of time while others sound dated. Overall this is definitely something to check out and indulge in. 

Grab a piece of synth history with Groovin' Over Beirut CD/2LP brought to you by The great Anna Logue Records.
Feb 09 2017