Four Tet - Rounds

The reason I'm a Sigur Rós fan is due partly to Radiohead. I heard Sigur Rós open for them on a European tour in 2001. I was curious enough and checked out the band, subsequently falling in love with them. The same thing happened with Clinic: they opened for Radiohead, sparked my interest, I checked 'em out and loved it. You can now add Four Tet to that list. Another way that I can introduce those of you who are unfamiliar with this band could be this way: whenever I have to work intensely on a paper or project, I put on something electronic with no vocals, just so I can work along to it - something really hypnotic that I still know is playing, but I don't have to pay a large amount of attention to. Aphex Twin is the usual choice for those frantic times, but now I have Four Tet to fill that void. To break it down further for you: Four Tet is a solo, side project of Fridge member Kieran Hebden, in which he composes mostly on his computer. Rounds is a bit of a departure from his usual work in that it features great beats coupled with a soothing, drowsy atmosphere of string arrangements, guitar, and bass. The first song, "Hands", is a excellent example of how to do this "folktronica" stuff the right way. All of this work is focused, assured, and natural, making it effortless to enjoy. "My Angel Rocks Back And Forth" is the best track, in my opinion, and the amazing "Unspoken" hits the epic, nine-and-a-half minute mark. Hebden conducts this all perfectly: music that would normally put you to sleep, but instead keeps you awake because you want to hear more. Sure, it's experimental, but it also has emotion and great melodies to set it apart. [www.fourtet.net]