The Patience Fader by Pan•American
Wistful Ambient for deeper contemplation
Following 2019's gently ruffling, guitar-focused Ambient album A Son, Mark Nelson returns as Pan•American with more of the same (although, even with no vocals, I found myself singing "I'm away from home" at various points throughout).
Since his '97 PA debut he's explored many facets of downtempo music, with Dub, steel guitar, voice, electronics and traditional (post) Rock instruments all contributing to his perpetually shifting yet subtle sound palette, but on this, his tenth album, he's landed on a sound that consolidates while honouring his lo-fi roots. And contrary to his established rep for subtle tension and a hint of listener discomfort, all 40 minutes are a simple joy, even the off-tune harmonica on Corniel.
The Patience Fader is a deceptively simple celebration of steel guitar, presented in a non-cheesy, accessible way.