What’s the story?

Four Tet has an album ‘coming soon’, as announced on his Instagram page today (10 January) The first track released from it is Loved, presenting his first new original material in eight months. As regular followers will know this is a relatively long period of inactivity for the producer – real name Kieran Hebden – but suggests the start of a busy year.

What’s the music like?

Languid – and enjoyably so. This is a contented side to Four Tet that picks up where previous track Three Drums left off, though this time there is a leaner texture and even more dreaminess. Both pieces of music suggest he is in a better place where music is concerned, a year and a half after his legal wranglings with former label Domino were resolved.

A slow beat, borne of hip hop and not far from the likes of early DJ Shadow, sets a relaxed backing over which cool and airy keys spin their magic. It is a blissful listen.

Does it all work…and is it recommended?

Yes indeed. Hebden is known for his consistency while always forging ahead or taking interesting paths – and this is no exception. Loved bodes well for the new album.

Listen and Buy