timothy hnatow - solipsism

Timothy Hnatow

Solipsism
self-released; 2013

3.6 out of 5

By Matt Jensen

I’m pretty sure the delicious sushi I had last night was real, I’m pretty sure my super comfy pillow is real and I'm also pretty sure my girlfriend exists but according to Solipsism the philosophical idea that only one’s mind is sure to exist and everything else might be a figment of your imagination teaches us that we all just might be in the matrix (and yes you are Neo). Timothy Hnatow decided to create an album entitled Solipsism, which is based on that philosophy. It consists of four tracks that are a little over 10 minutes long and contains some of the most subtle ambient music I have ever heard. If you thought Selected Ambient Work II by Aphex Twin was bare bones check this stuff out. 

The music is “personal and alone” according to Hnatow which doesn't make a good case for spending much time scrutinizing your existence. Why you ask? The music is composed of tones, pads and reverberations that often feel like there is this ominous impending doom ahead or at least total indifference. Take for instance “Solipsism 3” which takes low bell-like tones that are delayed with high pitch bleeps that sound eerily similar to what a electrocardiogram sounds like.

Let’s back it up a bit. The first song  “Solipsism 1” is pretty much variations on a single sine wave.  It slowly fluctuates in volume as I’m guessing various filters are used to slightly alter the sound. The only other sound that really presents itself is a bell-like bleep that you will miss if you blink. “Solipsism 2” had a tad bit more going on and is arguably the best song on the album. He hits a nice frequency that feels warm, mysterious and even serene at times. I would vote for this track to be the one I fall asleep to at night. Closing the album is “Solipsism 4” which is about as close to 4’33” by John Cage as you are going to get. A single tone floats in and out of existence wondering if consciousness is no more than elaborate simulation that fabricates the truth around us. 

This music is great for contemplating simulation theory, being chemically altered, possibly falling asleep and having existential dreams. This music should not be used for getting in the mood with your significant other, getting amped or for the first dance between the bride and her father.

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