Gallipoli
Beirut · 2019
44 min · 12 tracks · folk music
A rich tapestry of folk melodies interwoven with orchestral elements and intimate storytelling that evokes a sense of longing and nostalgia.
Top tracks — play these first
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Gallipoli — The title track encapsulates the album's thematic exploration of memory and place, driven by a haunting melody that lingers long after listening.
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When I Die — Opening with a reflective tone, this track showcases Condon’s poignant lyricism as it contemplates mortality against a backdrop of vibrant instrumentation.
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Family Curse — This song stands out due to its introspective lyrics and dynamic arrangement, blending melancholy with an uplifting sound that captures familial complexities.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
The album showcases strong songwriting and lush arrangements, though it follows familiar folk patterns.
What we noticed
- The album opens with a brisk tempo in 'When I Die', but transitions to slower, more reflective pieces like 'I Giardini' and 'Landslide'.
- Each track features layered instrumentation, often blending strings and brass with traditional folk instruments, creating a rich sonic landscape.
- Several tracks incorporate shifts in dynamics, such as 'Gallipoli', which builds from a soft introduction to a fuller orchestral climax.
- Composition 25% of the score
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7/10
- Craft 20% of the score
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8/10
- Durability 25% of the score
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7/10
- Distinctiveness 18% of the score
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7/10
- Sequencing 12% of the score
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6/10
the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics
production, performance, arrangement
whether it rewards returning to it
whether it sounds like itself
running order, pacing, length
Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.
Is this for you?
Good fit if you like
- steady pacing for reflective moments
- nostalgic melodies for quiet evenings
- gradual climaxes with emotional depth
- immersive soundscapes for relaxation
Maybe skip if you
- seeking upbeat party atmosphere
- prefer instant gratification tracks
Where this album fits
- Career context
- Released on February 1, 2019, Gallipoli is Beirut's fifth studio album, coming four years after the critically acclaimed No No No. The album marks a return to the band’s signature blend of world music influences and folk aesthetics while reflecting frontman Zach Condon’s evolving musical landscape and personal experiences.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Sufjan Stevens· Fleet Foxes· Iron & Wine
Moments worth listening for
Where the writing does something specific.
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When I Die
The moment shifts from contemplation of life to vivid imagery of what lies beyond, creating a bridge between hope and despair.
By juxtaposing these contrasting themes, the writing deepens the emotional weight of the track, allowing listeners to engage with both fear and acceptance.
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 When I Die 3:16
- 2 Gallipoli 4:06
- 3 Varieties of Exile 5:27
- 4 On Mainau Island 2:13
- 5 I Giardini 3:43
- 6 Gauze für Zah 6:04
- 7 Corfu 2:35
- 8 Landslide 3:30
- 9 Family Curse 3:23
- 10 Light in the Atoll 3:59
- 11 We Never Lived Here 4:12
- 12 Fin 2:03
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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