It might only be me, but I can't remember a year which featured so many extremely solid ambient releases. If someone would have asked me at the beginning of this year if the ambient genre would have a big year I truthfully would have doubted it...however, much to my liking, this year has been an epic year for those ambient lovers out there. Hopefully a few people who are new to the genre buckled down, forked over the money to get a pair of high-end headphones (if you haven't done this, do yourself a favor and get some, they make a world of difference), and have been able to catch a glimpse of a little of the genres magic, with releases like World on Higher Downs and Opitope.

Enter Patrick Lacharité, the sound engineer and guitarist for Below the Sea. After three solid releases with the group he's finally decided to put out some of his solo stuff under the alias Apillow. Clocking in at just under twenty minutes, the four track EP titled Leaves Winter Alone is the perfect finish to this spectacular ambient year. The first three tracks are unique for their genre, each contains many different layers all merged together to create a full sound that is both mysterious/energetic yet incites enough contemplation in the listener that he can easily lose hours listening to this magnificent piece of artwork. “Up the Hill” features the always present guitar, which sets a nice mood for the album, but what takes it to the next level is Lacharité's use of odd instruments -- particularly the use of the sound of bottle caps falling to create a rather unique sound. “The Departing Heart” shows a different side of Lacharité, the more somber and contemplative side, demonstrating that he's capable of using the ambient genre and his mastery of electronics to gain complete control over the listener's emotions. It's impressive when any artist can transition from happy to sad rather seamlessly, and it shows maturity and confidence in one's work.

Though this release will undoubtedly go overshadowed by all the top 50 lists and holiday shopping, for anyone who is willing to take a moment and soak up one last bit of ambient glory for the year, Apillow is here for you. Then again, it could also be the perfect way to kick off you thoughts about your new year's resolutions...maybe which will include opening yourself up for this exciting and quickly growing genre.

-Erich Meister