Beirut

Beirut stemmed from the mind of Zach Condon, a high school dropout who fled his life in Santa Fe, New Mexico in search of life's other meanings all across Europe. 'Gulag Orkester' was largely inspired by Balkan folk music and mainly comprised of the continual gorgeous layering of many interesting instruments such as the glockenspiel, ukulele, mandolin, drums, organ, piano, and other various instruments. You'll find that in listening to Beirut's music, surprise is an element that is seen in high rate. One instrument you won't be able to find in Condon's music is the guitar, but trust me, it won't be missed one bit. As a self-taught musician to well over ten instruments you'd expect a rather shitty job on such an album but nope, no such failure. And although you'd expect a full ensemble band, Condon stands alone. It's definitely not the typical album a 21 year old high school dropout produces and is like nothing you have ever experienced. 

A beautifully romantic video directed by Alma Har'el

But since then, he's upgraded in more ways than one. His latest debut 'The Flying Club Cup' was largely influenced by the likes of Jacques Brel and immerses you in a flurry of the accordion, drums, and a sweeping amount of strings (all in thanks to Owen Pallett of The Arcade Fire and Final Fantasy). The album beautifully reminisces in old style folk music while still keeping the music fresh enough to hold the attention span of the modern day person. It's easy to get lost in your thoughts of Parisian cityscapes while listening to the album.

A Take Away show along the streets of Paris

The only downside? He gives off an egotistical bastard vibe when he sings live, but who am I to judge? We all have our own initial demeanors.