With so much invested over time producing and recording, it all came together recently for Simon Tew with this debut album which will empower all to forward think about sounds and one’s well being. Although not a cosmic force, Simon Tew is an energy worth recognizing and appreciating.  His natural strength is more commonly known for his work with Martin Iveson inside the renowned Atjazz label. ‘Solhouette’ begins with a beautiful harmony of tranquil vocals and soothing broken beats. Much like a sunny day in the spring time you’ll be awoken with the wonders of new emotions. Not to stray away from the deep meaning but the next groove, ‘Reflections’ has some gritty urban fare consisting of rich electronic undertones. Yielding only to the roughness of the street life this one speaks its soul loud and clear. One of my favorites;‘Hard Look’ fires into a pounding chord arrangement digging deep into your soul and pulls out the furry of cinematic soundscapes that surround this song. With the many urges when illuminating a debut album you’re bound to dish out some of your proudest sounds. Rewinding back to the urban sound ‘Independent Light’ has a layered 80’s vocal crossing over with a soulful hip hop lyric. The last ¾ of the album boast a bounty of fresh downtempo and curious sounds all mixed into the blessed creations that have come from Simon Tew. ‘Why Answer’ has a bit of a catchy effect to it with poppy and bubbley pads and throbbing bass lines ripping from start to finish. For all the curious minds this isn’t one song that is 10 minutes long but the gift here is a secret track that finishes off When the Clouds Ran Away with a classically orchestrated piece that not only soothes the listener but calms the soul. Now that’s a gift well wrapped.

By Marc 'Oxide' LaCasse
Apr 14, 2011