Simon James French – Anthem
Posted In: Anthem, Hibernate Records, Simon James French
Comments: One Response
The soon to be released ‘Anthem‘ (Hibernate Records 005) is the majestic debut album from composer Simon James French…
It would seem that the label can do no wrong at the moment producing stunning releases time after time. This is clearly the case with Simon’s project, as each composition resonates a deep atmospheric feel, capturing a timeless soundscape of the highest order.
With it’s orchestral like environment of exploration and wonder, ‘Anthem‘ demonstrates Simon’s expertise within the realms of experimental soundscapes. You immidiately sense his ability to allow each track time and space to breath without ever needing to ‘over do’ things, a technique commomplace throughout.
This is never more evident than in the stand out track ‘Misery‘; never overreaching, never trying too hard to overstate, flawlessly encapsulating an eerie gothic feel along the lines of Jacaszek’s creations.
‘Anthem’ delievers ghostly digital portraits with it’s low organ tones and treated sounds…
An exceptional debut album from the talented artist that would be a great addition to any music connoisseur’s collection. 9/10
Review by Daniel Crossley
About Simon:
Simon James French is a sound artist currently based in London, UK. His work is increasingly involved in the art of field recording but often transcends the gap between phonography and sound design. Interested in cross-media work, Simon’s work often contains field recordings, synthesis, and live electronics.
Heavily inspired by the compositional techniques of György Ligeti, Simon’s first release Anthem is full of dynamic movement
and heavy textures that, in its entirety make for an ever changing body of work that invites the listener to fall headlong into this world of sinuous, melodic drones, evocative motifs and cleverly incorporated real-world sounds.
[...] [...]