“It all began when one of us was Leaving Laurel”. This is an old friendship project of the late Pierce Fulton and Gordon Huntley. Leaving Laurel debuts the first single of their debut album and dedicates it to Fulton. For those that don’t know, Fulton passed away earlier this year after a long time struggle with mental health. ‘Winter In The Woods‘ releases on Anjunadeep, with the debut album releasing on August 20th.
The song itself sounds like winter, with a light piano melody accompanied by an instrumental bassline. Mellow and chill, it’s a perfect showcase for the label. There’s a slight melancholic atmosphere to it but entices you to reminisce on the things you miss most. The music video captures snowfall in the forest, with clips of Pierce and Gordon trekking through the snow playing with their dog. Filmed through a sepia filter with old-school film cuts, you may cry while watching. Their story started many years ago with an internet friendship that bloomed into a musical collaboration. Before leaving their separate lives, they collaborated with each other in Laurel Canyon, California on a demo for Gordon.
Pierce had the vision to make music together in California. That vision became a reality when they finished their debut album early this year shortly before the tragedy. After a year of mental health struggle, Pierce left us. But his memory lives on in this forthcoming album and single. It represents the pair’s isolation in the Connecticut and Vermont woods. However, Gordon, Pierce’s brother, and manager Griff want to share this: “It’s ok to not be ok. It’s for anyone who can relate to his pain, and to know you are not alone.”
“Slow down and enjoy life. It’s not only the scenery you miss by going too fast – you also miss the sense of where you are going and why.”
– Pierce Fulton, via Eddie Cantor
Take a listen to the newest single from Leaving Laurel below. Pre-save the debut album here.