Album Review: East Europe by Beta Frequency
Released in 1997 under the labels CNR Music Norway, East Europe by Beta Frequency is a striking artifact of electronic music’s golden era. Hailing from Norway, this album dives deep into hard trance, hard house, acid, and trance styles, offering listeners an unrelenting yet melodic journey. With its raw energy and intricate production touches, it’s no surprise that the record has aged like fine wine for fans of the genre.
At its core, East Europe was crafted by Eskild Trulsen and Tarjei Ekenes Krogh, who handled everything from writing to arranging and producing. Their chemistry is evident throughout the six tracks, but two standouts—“Impuls De Berve” and “Explore”—are what make this album unforgettable.
“Impuls De Berve” kicks things off with a bang. It’s relentless, pounding rhythm grabs hold immediately, refusing to let go. The track layers driving beats with acidic synths that twist and turn unpredictably, creating a hypnotic effect. What sticks out here isn’t just the technical skill—it’s how the track feels alive, almost breathing as it progresses. You can tell these guys weren’t just making music; they were experimenting, pushing boundaries. Every time I hear those pulsating basslines, it’s like being transported back to some underground rave where everyone’s lost in the moment.
Then there’s “Explore,” which flips the script entirely. This one leans more atmospheric, trading chaos for introspection. The soaring pads and shimmering melodies create a sense of wonder, like you’re floating through space or wandering across an alien landscape. Unlike “Impuls De Berve,” this track invites you to slow down and reflect rather than lose yourself in frenetic energy. For me, it’s the perfect counterbalance on the album—a reminder that even within hard-hitting genres, beauty can still shine through.
One thing worth noting about East Europe is how cohesive it feels despite its stylistic range. Tracks like “Exit Act” and “Deoxidice” bring grit and intensity, while others explore subtler moods. The flow between them keeps the listener engaged without ever feeling disjointed. Sure, it might not be flawless (the mix could’ve used a bit more polish in places), but that rough edge adds character. After all, perfection can sometimes feel sterile, right?
Reflecting on East Europe, it’s wild to think this came out over 25 years ago. Back then, Norway wasn’t exactly known as a hub for electronic music, yet Beta Frequency managed to carve their own niche. Maybe that’s why the album resonates so strongly—it doesn’t try to fit any mold. Instead, it boldly marches to its own beat, much like the country it calls home.
And hey, if nothing else, listening to this album reminds us that good music doesn’t need flashy gimmicks or endless hype. Sometimes, it just needs heart—and maybe a killer acid line or two.
