Four Tet - Late Night Tales (2LP)

"Four Tet - LateNightTales" is part of the acclaimed "LateNightTales" compilation series, where artists curate a selection of tracks that have influenced their musical journey, interspersed with their own work. Released in 2004, Four Tet's edition is a testament to Kieran Hebden's eclectic taste and his knack for blending disparate musical genres into a cohesive auditory experience. This review delves into the compilation's production, thematic elements, musicality, and its place within both the series and Four Tet's broader discography.

The compilation opens with "Haunted Feelings" by Rahsaan Roland Kirk, setting a contemplative and atmospheric tone that resonates throughout the album. This choice reflects Hebden's appreciation for jazz's depth and its improvisational nature, elements that permeate his own productions.

One of the standout tracks is Four Tet's own "Castles Made of Sand," a reinterpretation of the Jimi Hendrix classic. Hebden's version transforms the guitar-driven original into an electronic, rhythmically complex piece while retaining the emotive core of Hendrix's composition. This track exemplifies Four Tet's ability to bridge the gap between electronic music and more traditional musical forms, a recurring theme in the compilation.

The inclusion of tracks like "Tinkle" by J Saunders and "Valiha Del" by Fairport Convention showcases the breadth of Hebden's musical interests, from minimalistic electronic compositions to folk-inspired melodies. This eclectic mix not only highlights his influences but also his skill in creating a narrative that moves fluidly across genres and eras.

"Terry's Patchwork" by Terry Riley is a notable inclusion, representing the avant-garde and minimalist movements that have significantly influenced Hebden's work. Riley's repetitive, cyclical compositions resonate with Four Tet's own use of looping and phasing, illustrating the lineage of experimental music that informs the compilation.

The production quality of "LateNightTales: Four Tet" maintains the high standard of the series, with each track carefully remastered to ensure clarity and depth. Hebden's mixing and sequencing of the compilation are masterful, with each transition crafted to maintain the album's mood and flow, creating a seamless listening experience that feels like a personal journey through Hebden's record collection.

Thematically, the compilation is a reflection of Hebden's musical ethos, characterized by curiosity, openness, and a deep respect for the transformative power of music. The tracks chosen for this compilation span a wide range of emotions and styles, from introspective and meditative to more upbeat and rhythmic, mirroring the ebb and flow of human experience.

Musically, "LateNightTales: Four Tet" is a testament to Hebden's versatility as a curator and his ability to transcend genre boundaries. The compilation is a microcosm of the diverse influences that inform his work as Four Tet, from electronic and dance music to jazz, folk, and avant-garde.

In the context of the "LateNightTales" series and Four Tet's discography, this compilation stands out as a particularly insightful and enjoyable entry. It not only serves as a curated collection of influential tracks but also as an artifact of Hebden's own musical journey and the diverse sounds that have shaped his distinctive style.

In conclusion, "Four Tet - LateNightTales" is more than just a compilation; it's an immersive exploration of the vast landscape of music that has inspired one of electronic music's most innovative artists. The album succeeds in showcasing a wide array of genres and artists while maintaining a cohesive and engaging narrative, making it a must-listen for fans of Four Tet and music aficionados alike.