Top tracks — play these first
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Mirror in the Bathroom — This track stands out as an energetic anthem that encapsulates the band's signature blend of ska rhythms with pop sensibilities, making it a defining moment of the era.
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Save It for Later — The song's catchy melody and poignant lyrics about fleeting moments showcase The Beat's ability to mix danceable tunes with deeper themes, reinforcing their versatility.
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Tears of a Clown — This cover adds a unique twist to a Motown classic, illustrating The Beat's knack for transforming established songs into something fresh and distinctly their own.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
The album showcases strong ska influences and varied arrangements but struggles with cohesion due to remixes and live tracks.
What we noticed
- The first three tracks maintain a brisk tempo, with 'Mirror in the Bathroom' leading as a strong opener, while the fourth track introduces a slower remix that disrupts the flow.
- Several tracks feature prominent horn sections that drive the ska influence, particularly in 'Twist & Crawl' and 'Doors of Your Heart'.
- Composition 25% of the score
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6/10
- Craft 20% of the score
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7/10
- Durability 25% of the score
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6/10
- Distinctiveness 18% of the score
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7/10
- Sequencing 12% of the score
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5/10
the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics
production, performance, arrangement
whether it rewards returning to it
whether it sounds like itself
running order, pacing, length
Significant within its genre. 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
- upbeat tracks for lively gatherings
- catchy melodies for sing-alongs
- short bursts of infectious energy
- nostalgic vibes for carefree moments
- playful rhythms for dancing
Maybe skip if you
- prefer long, introspective pieces
- seek heavy, somber atmospheres
Where this album fits
- Career context
- What Is Beat? marks The Beat's post-breakthrough moment, following their successful debut album I Just Can't Stop It. Released in 1983, this album showcases their continued evolution in sound while solidifying their presence in the UK music scene during the new wave movement.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Madness· Squeeze· The Specials
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 Mirror in the Bathroom 3:08
- 2 Twist & Crawl 2:33
- 3 Tears of a Clown 2:42
- 4 Can't Get Used to Losing You (remix) 3:26
- 5 Doors of Your Heart 3:12
- 6 What's Your Best Thing? 3:49
- 7 Hit It 3:32
- 8 Save It for Later (12" mix) 4:56
- 9 Best Friend 3:04
- 10 I Confess (12" mix) 5:47
- 11 Too Nice to Talk To 3:07
- 12 Get a Job / Stand Down Margaret (live at the Boston Opera House) 6:44
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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