Is Parallel a good place to start with Four Tet?

Yes, Parallel is recommended as a starting point for new Four Tet listeners. A meditative exploration of ambient textures merging with rhythmic pulses, inviting listeners into a tranquil sonic landscape. Released on December 25, 2020, 'Parallel' is Four Tet's first album since his 2017 release 'New Energy'. At this point in his career, he had already established himself as a pioneer in the electronic music scene, known for blending genres and innovative sound design. This album continues his evolution as an artist by embracing longer compositions and immersive arrangements.

Parallel works well if you're into long immersive listening sessions, atmospheric background focus and dynamic emotional journeys.

How many songs are on Parallel?

Parallel has 10 tracks, running approximately 70 minutes.

Parallel

Four Tet · 2020

70 min · 10 tracks · electronica

A meditative exploration of ambient textures merging with rhythmic pulses, inviting listeners into a tranquil sonic landscape.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Parallel 1 Start here — Clocking in at nearly half an hour, this opening track sets a serene tone with its evolving layers of sound that gradually envelop the listener, representing the album's core ethos of exploration and patience.
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Parallel 4 — This track stands out for its intricate rhythm patterns that introduce a more dynamic element while maintaining the overall ethereal quality of the album, showcasing Four Tet's skill in balancing complexity with tranquility.
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Parallel 8 — With its rich textures and gradual buildup, this track exemplifies Four Tet's ability to blend organic sounds with electronic elements seamlessly, creating a reflective journey that encapsulates the album's thematic depth.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

Instrumental

68 /100

Alpine

Higher than 93% of albums we've rated

The album excels in creating a cohesive and immersive sonic experience through layered textures and steady rhythms.

What we noticed

Each track features a gradual build-up of layers, with rhythmic pulses emerging from ambient textures.
The album maintains a consistent tempo throughout, with no sudden shifts in pace or dynamics.
Several tracks incorporate field recordings and subtle variations in sound to create an immersive atmosphere.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 8/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 8/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 9/10

Influence 2/10

Little footprint beyond its audience. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

long immersive listening sessions
atmospheric background focus
dynamic emotional journeys
gradual builds and payoffs

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Critical Peak — Showcases Four Tet's unique sound and cohesive listening experience, receiving critical acclaim.
Themes: tranquil sonic landscape· immersive sound exploration
Career context: Released on December 25, 2020, 'Parallel' is Four Tet's first album since his 2017 release 'New Energy'. At this point in his career, he had already established himself as a pioneer in the electronic music scene, known for blending genres and innovative sound design. This album continues his evolution as an artist by embracing longer compositions and immersive arrangements.
Stylistic neighbors: Floating Points· Bonobo· Tycho