Description

Patrick O’Hearn – Trust – Cassette

Patrick O’Hearn’s album Trust is an excellent example of his work in the ambient and electronic music genres. Released in 1995, Trust continues to showcase O’Hearn’s skill in crafting atmospheric soundscapes that blend elements of ambient, new age, and electronic music. His background as a bassist with artists like Frank Zappa and Missing Persons has significantly influenced his solo compositions, which often feature rich, melodic bass lines and a deep understanding of musical structure.

Trust is characterized by its serene, flowing compositions, which evoke a sense of calm and contemplation. The album uses a variety of synthesizers and acoustic instruments, creating layers of sound that are both complex and soothing. O’Hearn’s music is often noted for its cinematic quality, making it a popular choice for film soundtracks and ambient listening settings.

Multi-instrumentalist Patrick O’Hearn is known for a particular brand of new age that blends ambient passages with elements of jazz and contemporary electronica. Moody, dark, and lovely, Trust is one of the artist’s stronger efforts.

Like a good deal of new-age music, O’Hearn’s sonic atmospheres evoke mental images of expansive natural landscapes and places where time and space converge. O’Hearn employs repetition to trance-like effect, and much of TRUST will make listeners feel as though they are standing on the edge of a precipice, looking out over endlessly receding desert. For this reason, TRUST is best listened to with headphones, an experience that will heighten the album’s already brain-altering effect.

Key Tracks:
‘Homeward Bound’ – This track is a standout for its lush, expansive sound and the emotional depth it conveys, typical of O’Hearn’s ability to blend electronic and acoustic elements seamlessly.
‘Trust’ – The title track encapsulates the album’s theme of introspection and serenity, featuring a slow-building arrangement that showcases O’Hearn’s skill in creating dynamic, evolving pieces.

Trust was well-received by fans of ambient and new age music for its polished production and emotional depth. Patrick O’Hearn is respected in the genre for his ability to create music that is not only aesthetically pleasing but also emotionally resonant.

Patrick O’Hearn’s work, including Trust, has contributed to the development of ambient and electronic music by demonstrating the potential of these genres to convey complex emotions and create immersive auditory experiences. His music remains influential for new artists in the ambient and new age scenes, and ‘Trust’ is often recommended to listeners new to these genres because of its accessibility and depth.

For fans of ambient, new age, or electronic music looking for an album that offers both relaxation and emotional engagement, Trust by Patrick O’Hearn is a compelling choice.

Deep Cave Records

TRUST was nominated for a 1996 Grammy Award for Best New Age Album.

Track Listing
1. Liberty
2. Two Continents
3. Equinox
4. Trust
5. Synergy
6. Lone Man, The
7. 3 Circles
8. Farewell