Four Patterns

Following my reviews of Simon's other works, I had to download "Four Patterns" as soon as I could, if only to see how it fit into what I call his "mid-period" where he focused on thematics and structure as opposed to tangible influences. In all honesty, after hearing "Ambientology", I wasn't expecting much. I was SERIOUSLY surprised!

To iterate and expand on Chundermachine's earlier review, "Antarctica" was his masterpiece, therefore a tough act to follow, so he rightly changed his tack. What it lacks in imagination is more than made up for in sound - it's a wonderfully soothing piece that does retain a lot of humanity and warmth. I was given the impression that this would be a piece that started out sketched on a piece of paper and then 'constructed' in the studio. However, having talked with Simon via MSN yesterday evening, I know this is not the case and that the album was borne mainly out of improvisation (he insists on performing all parts rather than use mathematics and generators).

Having filled in the missing piece in his discography, I can now understand why there seem to be only a few people that review his music here on Jamendo: it's not very easy to describe in words - you really have to listen to it and then gather your own impression.

If you've downloaded any of his other albums, you must download "Four Patterns" as it's a very solid entry into his fine repertoire.

For me listening to music is a serious thing, I give my 100% to it. Now, sitting almost an hour before the speakers and focusing on this music can be boring - it's not that informative. But as for hearing at the background while you're doing something else, especially some new-age-related thing, like reiki, shiatsu, yoga etc. - I can't think of anything better than this music. It's positive, drifting and relaxing. Well done.

"Four Patterns" is a wonderfully soothing piece of ambient music that literally just glides out of your speakers. It's a piece that can be soft, dreamy and yet sparkly at the same time - surprisingly easy to listen to considering it's almost hour-long length. The Eno inspiration was certainly there, especially in the near-mathematical concept, but unlike some of Eno's recent ambience, there's some warmth and humanity in the music.

As previously said by Umweltfreundlich, you can't just download one of these soundscapes - you gotta get them all. "Antarctica" may still be his masterpiece, but you can't go far wrong with "Four Patterns".