Fourth World

Fourth World music is a genre characterized by its dreamy, atmospheric soundscapes, often incorporating elements of ambient, new age, and world music. Emerging in the late 1970s and 1980s, it was pioneered by artists who sought to create a distinct, culturally ambiguous sound that blended electronic and acoustic instrumentation, minimalist rhythms, and introspective atmospheres. Typically featuring a combination of synthesizers, piano, and acoustic instruments, Fourth World music often features soft, whispery vocals, improvisational textures, and a sense of sonic experimentation. This genre defies traditional notions of cultural identity, instead embracing a fusion of Western and non-Western musical influences. Its impact lies in its ability to evoke a sense of timeless, placeless contemplation, making it a precursor to later ambient and chillout genres. Notable for its use of found sounds, subtle melodies, and meditative pacing, Fourth World music remains a unique and captivating genre that continues to inspire contemporary musicians.

Lateral

Brian Eno•

Beatie Wolfe

Album - 8 Tracks - Released June 6, 2025