DJ Unwind’s new album is a welcomed diversion in this chaotic world we live in today. Épais, which means “thick” in French, is a lounge-filled musical tapestry of downtempo sounds. The producer says, “2012 was an unsightly year for many and at times felt like humanity was moving backwards instead of forward. Épais seems appropriate for the times to help soothe folks from a paranoid, antisocial, violent and insecure society.” Even now, weeks after the Boston Marathon bombings, Épais has a calming effect on the mind as well as the soul. As a musician and remixer, Unwind (born Brad LaBarbera) has that laid-back vibe about him. Even in our email exchanges, there was a soothing feel to his words, his spirit. The eight-track LP features three songs with 18-year old Australian folk-pop singer Hannah Karydas (“Mannequin,” “The Last Fall” and Old Ways New Games”). According to Unwind, “The Last Fall” is dedicated to two young family members who passed away last fall within weeks of each other. Though a self-proclaimed “non-conformist”, the Minneapolis-based DJ also performs under the pseudonym “Oceans of Velvet” with UK guitarist, Paul Allender.