Editor's Note: Ben Tatlow isn't just someone who wants to write about Christian ambient music; he's actively make it as part of the duo ambient bands Salt of the Sound and Narrow Skies. He has a fantastic, holistic perspective on the genre, and we're delighted to learn more about it through this exclusive column. And hey, go check out his band's new album, Meditations Vol. 3. 

Having explored the emerging genre of Christian Ambient music over the past couple of months (you can read the two introductory articles here and here), we're now going to be featuring some of the Christian musicians and artists who are creating this meditative, reflective music. Being based in Sweden for almost five years now, I thought there was no better place to start than close to home--and so today I'm excited to introduce Swedish ambient artist Simon Wester. 

Simon lives in central Sweden with his wife, Corinne, and daughter, Alice, and works as a professional graphic designer in addition to being a highly talented musician and producer.
 
How would you describe your music to someone who has never heard it before?

When people ask, I often say that I write relaxing music; it is a Christian version of relaxing music.

Tell us a bit about what you're currently working on?

Right now I'm working on two music projects. Firstly, a new album with chillout and ambient music that I have been working on for a while. The second project is an album with calming instrumental piano songs.

What inspires you as an artist? And how does that link to your Christian faith?

It inspires me to hear that people become calm or peaceful when they listen to my music. A while ago a pastor told me that while he was writing his sermon he listened to my songs at the same time for inspiration. I have also heard that parents play my music for their children to help them fall asleep. Another friend told me how their grandfather who has dementia became peaceful every time they played my music for him. Stories like this inspire me a lot! It feels like God uses my music to help others, and that is also my prayer. I see my music as as a form of worship, specifically instrumental worship and it is a way for me to praise the Lord. Many Christians want to have calm music in the background while they pray and it is the same thing for me.
 
Do you feel the music you write fits within the Christian music scene?

Yes, I think so. I think many Christians like the feeling when someone in a worship team plays soft pads or piano in the background alongside readings, prayers or other talking. It is a tool that gives a good feeling and focus. The Christian ambient and chillout genre is very similar to that.

What does Christian ambient music mean to you?

It means very much to me. It is perfect music in the background and it help me focus when I work or when I pray. For example, every time I shop in the grocery store I listen to calming music on high volume. It is a way for me to unwind and think of something else, or talk to God.


Many thanks to Simon for sitting down with us: you can listen to all of his music on your favorite music download or streaming site, including over on Spotify and iTunes.

And if you've enjoyed exploring Simon's beautiful instrumental music, you may also like our playlist of Christian Ambient music, which includes a few artists who we'll be discussing music and faith with over the coming months.
 
Wishing you peace and love wherever you are today!