With song titles such as "Disco Parade," "Solid Gold," and "Teenage Dancefloor," a band name that suggests electronic experimentation, and a groovy-looking record sleeve,
VHS or Beta could easily be thrown into a pile labeled electronic or house. House would be appropriate. But electronic? Not quite. Except for assistance from a few gadgets (effects pedals are the most popular here),
VHS or Beta's fusion of house, funk, and disco is produced by guitar, bass, and drums. And the most unexpected thing about
Le Funk is that it's irresistibly danceable. The two live tracks (including the jam-athon for "Flash") prove that it's no hoax. The band even mixes songs together, keeping the fluttering beat and bass alive and steady. Though
Le Funk isn't as slick as
Daft Punk's "Da Funk" and its house masterpiece,
Homework,
VHS or Beta's formula is undoubtedly inventive. ~ Kenyon Hopkin