What makes Ruins by Grouper notable?

'Ruins' received critical acclaim, with Pitchfork awarding it an 8.5 rating and highlighting its emotional depth and sonic experimentation. It has influenced contemporary ambient and experimental music, showcasing Grouper's ability to create profound connections through minimalism, which resonates within various artistic circles. By the time 'Ruins' was released in January 2014, Grouper, the project of Liz Harris, had already established a distinct presence in the ambient music scene through earlier works like 'Dragging a Dead Deer Up a Hill' (2008). This album marked her first release on the esteemed Kranky label, signaling both a continued evolution in her sound and an expanding audience for her intimate, atmospheric compositions.