Looking For The Perfect Beat Looking For The Perfect Beat: Episode 3 - Kieran Hebden / Four Tet
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Oct 23, 2025 
Join acclaimed electronic musician Kieran Hebden, known as Four Tet, as he takes us through his vibrant musical journey. He shares stories of his early influences from jazz and Motown to forming the band Fridge, and transitioning into the realm of electronic music. Collaborations with legends like Pharoah Sanders and Neneh Cherry are explored, as well as his rise in the DJ scene. Kieran discusses navigating the challenges of fair artist royalties, the impact of his monumental Madison Square Garden show, and the creative ethos that fuels his work.
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Laid-Back Grooves Define His Taste
- Kieran Hebden values laid-back dynamic grooves where a kick can unexpectedly 'explode' and change the feel.
- He traces that taste to early jazz, soul, and Motown heard at home which shaped his rhythmic priorities.
A Home Full Of Records Sparked Everything
- Kieran describes growing up in a house full of Motown, Coltrane and Joni Mitchell and hearing Blue Monday from his dad as a 'futuristic' moment.
- He bought Tear for Fears 'Shout' as his first single and later discovered electronic records as transformative.
First Studio Visit With Established Musicians
- Arthur invited Fridge to add ideas to Twisted Tenderness sessions with Johnny Marr and Bernard Sumner, giving Kieran his first studio experience.
- Kieran recalls feeling relaxed, enjoying the experiment without career pressure and learning from seasoned musicians.
