Four Tet has been on steady rise, slated by many as the next electronic producer to blow. Not sure if it will happen, only because Kieran Hebden might be too clever for the masses (counterpoint: Aphex Twin did blow up). But it doesn't change the fact that this guy makes some of the smartest music around, incorporating fantasy and some of the most skilled drum programming in the game. For this particular album, he mostly builds the tracks from the drums up, a move sure to satisfy the most bored beathead. And in the second minute of each track (when the shit usually comes together), you'll be constantly thinking "damn, this is some good shit." My favorite Four Tet album so far. Check out: "Smile Around The Face," "High Fives," "And Then Patterns," "A Joy," "Clouding," and "Sleep Eat."

• black double vinyl pressing
• custom etching on side D
• housed in gatefold sleeve w/ 12 page photo booklet
• digital download included
• music label: Domino 2005

reviewed by the mgmnt 10/2005