Beltane

Beltane began in May 1996. Initially starting out as a studio project constructed by founding member Paul Handley, Beltane's rather unique sound is created using an unusual blend of influences, their characteristic style makes it a little hard to find direct comparisons but generally tends to fall somewhere in the 'Gothic genre' vein, probably due to some of the ominous underlying synth oscillations. The band themselves see it more as 'electronica/rock', more along the lines of artists such as Delerium, New Order, and Garbage. The densely electronic based music is driven by synthesisers and rhythm programming, whilst still retaining a strong organic feel using; up front female vocals, bass and electric guitars, classical string instruments, and additional drums and percussion. The contemplative mood is melodic and atmospheric with emphasis on polarity of extremes; light and dark aspects are inextricably entwined, placing delicate vocals and gentle synth melody, within a less forgiving, disconcerting environment.

The first official release for Beltane was the self released "Dionysian Blood" five song single (1999), this was followed by a full length shortly after, "The Fire of Becoming" (2000). Due to the studio nature of the band, many musicians have been involved along the way and each release has guest musicians and a variety of female singers. 2003 saw the release of the "World of Dreams" full-length CD where the focus took a more orchestrated approach with a mild classical influence.



Beltane is the name of a pre-Christian festival celebrated on the May eve (April 30). The Beltane fire festival is a celebration of the coming summer and the death of winter, akin to a new-year celebration. It is still celebrated in Scotland today.





Beltane are:

Paul Handley (electronic programming, synthesisers, bass guitar, drums and percussion)

Karina Eames (vocals/electric guitar)

Sophie Horwood (vocals)



Contact Details:

Paul Handley (Beltane/Electron)

Phone: Home +618 8431 7936

Postal Address: P.O. Box 174, Kensington Park, 5068, South Australia

E-mail: beltane @ electronmusic.de

Website: www.beltane.electronmusic.de

Mp3 Site 1: www.mp3.com.au/beltane