While it may appear that kieran Hebden, better known as Four Tet, is entering the country music arena a bit late, his collaboration with former Lambchop guitarist William Tyler transcends mere trend-chasing. Their musical partnership dates back to 2020, and their recent album pays homage to the Americana sounds of the 1980s—melodies that shaped Hebden’s upbringing in southwest London and also influenced Tyler, whose father was a professional songwriter based in Nashville.

The album’s intriguing premise is complemented by its evocative title; however, the opening track “41 Longfield Avenue Unhurried ‘80s,” which reimagines Lyle Lovett’s distinctive song If I Had a Boat, does not lean heavily into nostalgia or present itself as especially cohesive. The retro country elements are artfully blended with Hebden’s serene synth layers and sporadic bursts of distortion. For instance, the opener features an undulating drone that evokes an ethereal spacecraft hovering above—a soundscape that nearly eclipses Tyler’s faithful rendition of Lovett’s intricate guitar work. Following this is Spider Ballad, which marries gentle synth notes with a pulsating bassline, while “Loretta Guides My Arms thru the Radio” incorporates snippets of studio chatter alongside tuning instruments.

Tyler’s guitar shines throughout—melding beautifully with chimes on “Trees,” while the closing track “Secret Metropolis” showcases swirling synths paired with reflective strumming patterns. Instead of merely attempting to recreate past glories or relying on nostalgia-laden themes, both artists have successfully forged an innovative yet somewhat fragmented interpretation of their foundational influences.