Reviews
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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.
Last but not least, there's "Ambientology". Considering the strong body of work Simon has produced, this is kind-of a weak link in the chain. I think on the other albums I've heard, there's been a certain amount of focus and concept, whereas this album tries to make something out of a particular technique as opposed to something tangible.
Not bad but not brilliant - but for those who follow his music chronologically, this is little more than a blip as he returned to exceptional form with "Skylight".
So that concludes my series of Simon Slator reviews (until the next one). Right... who's next?
I love the way it's so calm and mellow with the music rising slowly (like anyone who gets up at that time in the morning!)
I've got nothing really negative to say as it really is lovely music, but I don't think it stands up quite as well as some of the albums that followed - it's a strong first attempt though and a great "cutting your teeth" composition.
It's at this point, with only "Ambientology" left to listen to, I can honestly say that you can't download just one of his soundscapes. If you enjoy one of them, you'll be back for more.
Well, I've downloaded the lot and am listening to them all whenever I can. After reading the glowing reviews of the album, I made sure I listened to this one next!
Like "Skylight", "Antarctica" is a perfect soundscape: invoking the imagination yet still making good listening. While listening to the title track, you get the sense of wide open spaces, virgin snow and icy cold winds that could potentially kill anyone without the obligatory parka :)
As one reviewer has already said, you really do have to listen to it to appreciate it, and it looks like I'm not the only one who thinks it's a stimulating and imaginitive piece of music. Bravo!
Now this is what I'd call a "soundscape", and it's exactly as the artist describes - a sonic painting of the night sky. While listening, you can easly imagine the isolated beauty of the planets, the 'whoosh' of solar flares, the distant twinkle of the stars and even the buzz of all the technology mankind has sent there. "Skylight" is successful in both its vision and execution and a crucial download for all who like their ambient music with a sense of imagination. Wonderful!
A wonderful blend of ambient bliss mixed with a strong Vangelis influence on Track 2. Short, concise and consistent with remarkable staying power - once it's finished, it makes you want to play it all over again. Great stuff!
