To Be Or Not To Be? (Neal Howard)

• acid-house
• techno
• bleep
• Neal Howard

Ah, the enigmatic charm of 1988, when house music was still in its infant stages, and the world was yet to bear witness to the explosion of electronic dance music. And here we are, in 2023, reminiscing about Neal Howard’s classic EP, “To Be Or Not To Be?” which has firmly etched its place in the annals of dance music history.

Released during a time when the American house music scene was blossoming, this gem of a record perfectly encapsulates the raw energy and distinctive sound that would eventually become the backbone of the global electronic music movement. It is a nostalgic trip down memory lane, with subtle nuances that make it hard not to fall in love with the ingenuity and creativity that pervaded the era.

“To Be Or Not To Be?” has a total of seven tracks spread across two sides. The title track, “To Be Or Not To Be?” (6:18), kicks off the EP with a bang. It’s a question, but it’s also a statement. The track’s pulsating beat and hypnotic synths draw the listener into the heart of the record, setting the stage for a dance floor odyssey like no other. It’s quite fascinating how Neal Howard managed to craft a sound so quintessentially house and yet so distinctively his own. “To Be Or Not To Be?” found its way into countless DJ sets, and it was only a matter of time before it became a staple of the late ’80s club scene.

Following the lead track is “The Gathering (Club Mix)” (6:36), a groovy, syncopated number that delves deep into the realms of hypnotic rhythms and infectious melodies. The track’s piano riff is a testament to the early house music’s penchant for taking simple, yet effective elements and weaving them into something incredibly danceable. And then there’s “The Gathering (Pain Mix)” (5:07), a grittier, more bass-heavy version of the track that explores the darker side of house music. It’s the stuff of dance floor legends, and it wouldn’t be wrong to say that this EP played a significant role in shaping the future sound of electronic music.

On the flip side, we have the “To Be Or Not To Be? (May Day Mix)” (6:37), a reinvented version of the title track that adds a new dimension of depth and dynamism to the original. The “May Day Mix” is a sly wink from Neal Howard, reminding us that in the world of dance music, nothing is ever quite as it seems. It’s a track that will keep you on your toes, but it’s also an invitation to let loose and immerse yourself in the music.

The “To Be Or Not To Be? (Bonus Beat)” (3:01) is a welcome addition to the EP, showcasing Neal Howard’s prowess in manipulating rhythm and percussion. It’s a playful interlude that offers a moment of respite, but it’s also a reminder that the dance floor is a place where even the most unexpected can happen.

Finally, we have “Perpetual Motion” (7:33), a track that serves as the perfect culmination of the EP. It’s a fitting title, considering that the track seems to be in a constant state of motion, propelled by its relentless beat and swirling synths. In many ways, “Perpetual Motion” is a microcosm of Neal Howard’s musical journey, encapsulating his unique approach to rhythm, melody, and structure.

It’s fascinating to consider how the EP fits into Neal Howard’s discography as a whole. As one of his earliest releases, “To Be Or Not To Be?” is a testament to the producer’s innate understanding of the fundamentals of house music, and his ability to push the boundaries of the genre. The EP is a snapshot of a young artist brimming with talent, ambition, and vision, and it’s a testament to the longevity of his work that it still resonates with listeners more than three decades later.

From today’s perspective, “To Be Or Not To Be?” is a masterclass in the art of creating timeless dance music. The unique elements of the release, such as its engaging structure, rhythm, and melody, have undoubtedly played a significant role in its enduring appeal. The EP is a testament to the power of raw, unfiltered creativity, and its influence can be felt in the works of numerous artists who have followed in Neal Howard’s footsteps.

It’s worth noting that the EP was released during a period of intense innovation and experimentation in the world of electronic music. In this context, it’s not difficult to imagine that Neal Howard was inspired by a myriad of artists and influences. One could argue that the tracks on “To Be Or Not To Be?” bear the hallmarks of artists like Frankie Knuckles, Larry Heard, and Marshall Jefferson, who were also pioneering the early house music sound.

However, it would be a disservice to Neal Howard to suggest that his work was merely derivative. The genius of “To Be Or Not To Be?” lies in the fact that, while it may have been informed by the work of his contemporaries, it remains a singular and distinctive artistic statement in its own right. This is a rare feat, especially considering the countless imitators who emerged in the wake of house music’s explosion in popularity.

The use of irony in this review is subtle but present. For instance, the very title of the EP, “To Be Or Not To Be?”, is an ironic nod to the existential questions that define our existence. It is a seemingly weighty question posed within the context of a dance music release, highlighting the duality of life and art, and the ways in which the profound and the seemingly trivial can coexist.

Another example of irony can be found in the track “Perpetual Motion.” The name itself suggests an unending, unstoppable force, yet the very nature of music and dance is transient, fading away as soon as the record stops spinning. This ironic juxtaposition serves as a reminder that while the experience of the music may be fleeting, its impact and the memories it creates can last a lifetime.

In conclusion, Neal Howard’s “To Be Or Not To Be?” is a vital piece of dance music history that continues to enchant and inspire listeners more than three decades after its release. From its captivating rhythms and melodies to its innovative structure and timeless appeal, the EP is a masterwork that serves as a testament to the enduring power of house music. As we reflect on the legacy of “To Be Or Not To Be?” from the vantage point of 2023, it is clear that Neal Howard’s seminal work has left an indelible mark on the electronic music landscape, proving that the age of the record is no barrier to its continued relevance and resonance.