Jon Hassell's "Psychogeography" is a captivating exploration of sound and space, released on January 1, 2014, under the Ndeya label. This album is a unique reimagining of Hassell's 1990 work "City: Works of Fiction," offering a carefully curated collection of alternate takes, demos, and studio jams. Guided by Debordian philosophy, Hassell delves into the concept of psychogeography, inviting listeners to experience the urban landscape through a sonic lens.
Spanning 47 minutes, "Psychogeography" blends ambient, minimalism, avant-garde, and drone genres to create a rich, immersive soundscape. Tracks like "Aerial View" and "Neon Night (Rain)" evoke vivid imagery of city life, while "Harambe" and "Favela" transport you to distant, bustling locales. The album's title track, "Psychogeography," and pieces like "Emerald City" and "Cloud-Shaped Time" showcase Hassell's mastery of atmospheric sound design, blending electronic textures with organic elements.
"Psychogeography" is not just a collection of tracks but a journey through the sonic architecture of urban environments. Jon Hassell's innovative approach to composition and his ability to capture the essence of place make this album a standout in his discography. Whether you're a long-time fan or new to his work, "Psychogeography" offers a fresh perspective on the intersection of music and urban exploration.