Beltane

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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: electronmusic@hotmail.com
Website: www.beltane.com.au
Mp3 Site 1: www.mp3.com.au/beltane
Mp3 Site 2: www.itribe.com.au/artist/beltane