Presence Soundtracks 1993-1996: A Hidden Gem from Down Under
If you’re into soundtracks that feel like a warm hug for your brain, Presence Soundtracks 1993-1996 by Simon Lewis is worth a spin. Released in 1996 under his own label, Simon Lewis Productions, this album blends classical, ambient, and neo-classical vibes with a dash of electronic flair. It’s the kind of music that makes you pause mid-scroll and just… listen.
The album has this dreamy, cinematic quality to it—like it’s scoring moments in your life you didn’t even realize needed a soundtrack. Two tracks that really stuck with me? “Rising Sea” and “Birds Feeding.”
“Rising Sea” kicks things off with these lush, swelling tones that feel like watching waves crash against the shore at dawn. You can almost smell the saltwater. The way Simon layers instruments here is just so smooth—it’s not trying too hard, but it pulls you right in. And then there’s “Birds Feeding,” which feels playful yet serene, like watching tiny feathered chaos unfold in slow motion. Nick Yates’ soprano saxophone adds this delicate touch that makes the track unforgettable. Honestly, I found myself replaying it on loop while staring out the window, pretending I was in some artsy indie film.
What’s cool about this album is how collaborative it feels. Tony Hicks’ alto sax on “Attack 2” gives it an edge, while Martin Wright and Vaughan McAlley’s mastering work ties everything together with crisp clarity. It’s clear Simon Lewis poured his heart into every aspect of this project—as composer, performer, and producer.
One thing that surprised me? How timeless this record feels. Even though it came out in the '90s, it doesn’t scream “dated.” Instead, it sits comfortably between eras, making it perfect for fans of both old-school orchestral scores and modern ambient beats.
Final thought? Listening to Presence Soundtracks feels like finding a forgotten VHS tape at a garage sale and realizing it’s a lost classic. Except instead of tracking down a dusty player, you can just hit play. Weird analogy, I know, but hey—that’s the vibe.
