Ott- Hiraeth

Album Review: Ott – Hiraeth (2024)

You want Ott? You get Ott.

With “Hiraeth”, Ott delivers exactly what his fans expect: a deep dive into the immersive world of psychedelic dub and trip-hop. The intricate production, the warm layers of organic and electronic sounds, and the enveloping atmosphere make it clear that Ott remains a master of his craft. The album is classic Ott — detailed soundscapes that draw the listener into a rich, trippy audio journey.

Ott once described his creative process with a mix of humor and self-awareness:

“My entire approach could be summed up in terms of throwing shit at a wall and seeing what sticks. I do have a very slippery wall though, and my shit is made of Teflon.”

This playful analogy perfectly encapsulates his blend of experimentation and precision. While much of his work may begin in a freeform, trial-and-error style, the final product is anything but random. Hiraeth reflects this — rich, polished, and meticulously arranged, despite the playful chaos that might have sparked its creation. His music feels like the product of countless ideas, refined until only the most cohesive and immersive remain.

The overarching feeling of Hiraetha title for a track that I used before, a Welsh word for a deep longing or nostalgia for a home that may never have existed — runs through the entire album. This emotional undercurrent is perfectly reflected in the melancholic yet soothing atmosphere that defines the record. The production is flawless, the arrangements are lush, and the use of space and dynamics is truly masterful.

Yet, the album also exemplifies “You want Ott? You get Ott” — and therein lies its greatest strength, but also its limitation. For fans of Ott’s earlier works like “Mir” or “Skylon”, “Hiraeth” is everything they love, with its downtempo grooves, hypnotic rhythms, and warm, enveloping textures. But for those looking for a new twist, a bold departure, or even a subtle shift in direction, “Hiraeth” may feel a bit too familiar.

It’s been a while since Ott released a full studio album, and while his live shows with Ott & The All Seeing I gave fans a taste of something fresh, “Hiraeth” leans heavily on the established sound that made him a beloved figure in the psy-dub world. The album feels like a comfortable return home rather than a journey into uncharted territory. This album showcases Ott’s ability to craft beautiful, flowing pieces that are rich with detail—but they also feel like they could have fit seamlessly on his previous albums.

For listeners who crave something groundbreaking, “Hiraeth” might feel like a missed opportunity. The meticulous layering, the deep basslines, and the atmospheric swells and glitchy sequences and effects are all there, but the sense of innovation that defined Ott’s earlier work is somewhat gone. It’s as if Ott is playing it safe within his well-defined genre, rather than pushing the boundaries of what his music could be. This isn’t necessarily a bad thing — fans of his classic sound will find a lot to love here — but it does make “Hiraeth” feel like an album for the faithful rather than one that will expand his audience.

However, despite these (hopefully fair) criticisms, there are definitely those moments of brilliance scattered throughout the album, as one would expect from Ott. The careful balance of tension and release, and the way Ott uses space to create an almost meditative experience. His skill at building soundscapes that feel both organic and synthetic remains unparalleled.

In conclusion, “Hiraeth” is a strong addition to Ott’s discography, though it doesn’t break new ground. It’s an album that knows its audience and delivers exactly what they want: lush, psychedelic dub with all the familiar elements of Ott’s signature style. But while it’s a satisfying listen, it’s hard not to feel a lingering sense of hiraeth for the innovation that once defined his music.

Ultimately, “Hiraeth” is like reconnecting with an old friend: comforting, familiar, and satisfying — but without the surprises that make such reunions unforgettable.

I love this guy and his music. Buy and stream here.

FL Studio Desk

FL Studio & Native Instruments Unite – Save 85% On Two Exclusive Bundles

I’m excited to share some big news in the world of music production, and yes, it’s a partnership that’s worth every note. Before we dive in, let me be transparent: this article is written in collaboration with FL Studio and Native Instruments, and I’m thankful for continuously being considered as a trusted voice for recommendation by companies like that. I’m not getting paid nor do I have any advantages from this. It’s all about giving you the inside scoop on opportunities that can genuinely elevate your music production journey.

A Harmonious Collaboration

In the realm of digital audio workstations (DAW), FL Studio has been a beacon of innovation and user-friendliness for 25 years. Now, they’re joining forces with Native Instruments, renowned for their impactful music production tools. This collaboration is not just news; it’s a game-changer for producers, composers, and music enthusiasts alike.

Flsni2

Introducing the Bundles

KOMPLETE Collection for FL Studio

Imagine having a toolkit at your disposal that breathes new life into your music. The KOMPLETE Collection for FL Studio is exactly that. It’s a curated set of 12 instruments and effects, including the legendary Massive X, designed to inject inspiration into your tracks. Whether it’s mixing, mastering, or creating unforgettable melodies, this bundle is your new best friend.

KOMPLETE Signature Series for FL Studio

For those who crave the ultimate set of tools, the KOMPLETE Signature Series is like hitting the jackpot. With 15 essential instruments and effects, this bundle is a powerhouse. It’s equipped to guide you through every stage of production, from the initial note to the final master. Including industry staples like Ozone 11 Standard and Guitar Rig 7 Pro, it’s the premium choice for anyone serious about their sound.

Why Act Now?

These exclusive bundles are available only until March 19, 2024. Think of them as your limited-time pass to a world of enhanced creativity and polished production. Missing out isn’t an option for the forward-thinking producer.

See the Magic in Action

Don’t just take my word for it. FL Studio Power User Larry Ohh has already embraced these tools, creating music that stands out. Witness his process and the power of these plugins through his engaging video showcase.

A Leap Forward for Your Studio

This partnership between FL Studio and Native Instruments is more than just a business move; it’s a commitment to empowering musicians and producers. With these bundles, your music has the potential to reach new heights of emotion, clarity, and impact.

As a partner in this initiative, I’m here to say: these tools are a worthy investment in your musical journey. They’re not just plugins; they’re gateways to the next level of your creative expression.

Here’s to making music that resonates, innovates, and inspires.