Who / What
Rounds is the third studio album by British electronic musician Kieran Hebden, released under his alias Four Tet. It is a personal record composed primarily from hundreds of processed samples, blending elements of hip hop, jazz, and folk music.
Background & History
The album was recorded and produced by Hebden over ten months in his North London flat using a desktop computer and a home hi-fi system. It was released on 5 May 2003 by Domino Recording Company. Wanting to create a more intimate work, Hebden constructed the music from between 200 and 300 samples, with only one guitar part recorded live for the track "Slow Jam."
Why Notable
Rounds is notable for its innovative sampling technique, where many sounds were processed beyond recognition to create a unique sonic palette. It received critical acclaim for its experimental approach and solidified Four Tet's reputation as a leading figure in electronic music. The album's influence can be heard in subsequent electronic and sample-based music, demonstrating a significant artistic achievement.
In the News
The album's 20th anniversary in 2023 prompted retrospectives and reappraisals, highlighting its enduring influence on contemporary electronic music. It remains a touchstone for musicians exploring sample-based composition and lo-fi production techniques, maintaining its relevance in discussions about early 2000s experimental music.
