Contemplative moods dominate the Portland, Oregon musician Emancipator's chilled downtempo debut, whose muted melodies, acoustic textures, and largely instrumental arrangements suggest a decidedly pastoral air. Bittersweet violin lends an old-timey feel to "Lionheart" and "Anthem," and the ambient drones of "The Darkest Evening of the Year" evoke both winter's chill and the fire that keeps it at bay. "Eve" flirts with buoyant drum 'n' bass rhythms, and "When I Go" teases an ethereal vocal sample that's blissful and bittersweet at the same time.