Ben Seretan

edit

Ben Seretan is an American musician, singer, and songwriter known for his expansive, meditative compositions[1] and a blend of ambient[2], experimental, rock[3], and folk music.

Early Life and Education

edit

Ben Seretan was born in 1988 in southern California, where he developed an early interest in music. He started playing the guitar in his teens and was influenced by an array of artists, ranging from classical composers to contemporary indie musicians. Seretan pursued higher education at Wesleyan University in Middletown, Connecticut, studying music and history.

Career

edit

Early Career

edit

After graduating from Wesleyan University, Seretan moved to New York City, where he began his career as a solo artist. His early work was characterized by a DIY ethos, performing in small venues and self-releasing his music.

Musical Style and Influences

edit

Seretan's music is often described as a blend of ambient, experimental, and folk music. He uses a variety of instruments, including electric and acoustic guitars, synthesizers, and field recordings. His influences range from minimalist composers like Steve Reich and Terry Riley to indie rock bands like Yo La Tengo and Deerhunter.

"Youth Pastoral[4]" (2020) marked a significant evolution in Seretan's sound, incorporating more structured songwriting and lyrical focus. The album deals with themes of faith, community, and personal growth, and was praised for its introspective lyrics and intricate arrangements. “Youth Pastoral” was well regarded critically and received a 7.5 rating from the music publication Pitchfork[5].

Discography

edit

Studio Albums

edit
  1. "Ben Seretan" (2014)
  2. "Bowl of Plums" (2016)
  3. "My Life's Work" (2018)
  4. "Youth Pastoral" (2020)
  5. "Cicada Waves" (2021)
  6. “Sandhills Music” (2022)
  7. ALLORA (2024)
edit
  1. ^ "Ben Seretan - "Fog Rolls Out Rabun Gap"". Stereogum. 2021-03-25. Retrieved 2024-07-29.
  2. ^ Milligan, Shaun (2021-04-30). "Ben Seretan - "Cicada Waves"". Everything Is Noise. Retrieved 2024-07-29.
  3. ^ Pareles, Jon (2024-04-19). "Taylor Swift and Post Malone's Regretful Duet, and 9 More New Songs". The New York Times. ISSN 0362-4331. Retrieved 2024-07-29.
  4. ^ Doyle, Jon Doyle, Liam (2020-03-27). "Ben Seretan - Youth Pastoral". Various Small Flames. Retrieved 2024-07-29.{{cite web}}: CS1 maint: multiple names: authors list (link)
  5. ^ Cohen, Ian. "Ben Seretan: Youth Pastoral". Pitchfork. Retrieved 2024-07-29.