This is the breakthrough album which found Stars Of The Lid reaching new heights of creativity and a sound the would continue to explore since it's release. Avec Laudanum might not be as orchestral and complex as the next few albums, but this is where the duo stripped their sound of all elements of gloom and glacial leanings. This was pure bliss from start to finish. True ambient music which can either be explored attentively or forgotten in the background as mood elevating music without ever calling attention on itself. Guitars would still feature profusely throughout the record, but contrary to earlier releases, they rarely sound anything like a guitar here as the instrument is constantly masked by layers upon layers of reverb and diffusing effects. The whole record is a masterpiece of dreamlike soundscapes, but I do find the closing I Will Surround You to be truly sublime. Who needs sleeping pills when you've got Avec Laudenum?