You probably can’t repeat its title fast three times in a row, but Berlin-based “sound designer” Jan Jelinek‘s latest album is definitely worth checking out when it hits the record store shelves. Focused on the animal (which is apparently making a comeback in music) Tierbeobachtungen (animal observations) is all about nature’s free and unbridled aspects. It follows then, that the album is some of Jelinek’s most relaxed and personal work to date, incorporating things he’s learned during live appearances with his trademark minimalist synths, vibraphones, and found sounds. All said and done though, this animal is more a deer standing calmly in the woods than a wild beast, something Jelinek clearly intends.

Tierbeobachtungen is out October 20, 2006 on ~scape.