Review Summary: Drifting into the warm breeze...
With every new album, Causa Sui undoubtedly manage to level up expectations. In between the
Pewt’r Sessions, a series of truly experimental compositions that continuously wander in the psychedelic realm, the Danish quartet has released a string of gorgeous LPs that showcase their increasing chemistry and affinity for euphoric journeys. After the success of
Euporie Tide, their latest work,
Return to Sky was eagerly awaited by fans and luckily for us, it continues the winning streak.
Musically,
Return to Sky continues to oscillate between laid back jams and powerful rockers, creating that lovely rich atmosphere, already a trademark of theirs. It’s clear the band has been working on dynamics, plus they have managed to trim all the highlights of
Euporie Tide into a rewarding, 45-minute odyssey. While the respective album consolidated their place in the underground scene and was considered quite a landmark, it’s reassuring to see Causa Sui pushing forward and not resting on their laurels. Starting real strong with ‘Dust Meridian’ and ‘The Source’, these two cuts share all the strengths into firm doses. The former’s groovy bass line, enhanced by the hypnotic percussion paves the way for several solos among lush keyboard touches. There are multiple waves where the quartet builds and then falls into peaceful, soothing moments. Contrasting ‘Dust Meridian’, ‘The Source’ is one of their hardest tunes in a while, boasting pile driving riffs interspersed with pounding choruses. Although it’s mostly a straightforward affair, the beautiful coda lays the distortion to rest using soft synth pads and wah leads. It’s like the sunrise after a storm.
As we dive further into
Return to Sky, we find a couple of lighter tracks that make up the second part of the trip. On ‘Dawn Passage’ the spotlight goes to the drum/bass interplay, as they playfully drive into proggy territories. The guitar and keyboards embellish with several layers of sustained leads and chords, but they tease by building tension, at times keeping it for minutes before explode into a powerful jam. Then, the final, eponymous song represents its title, as it’s considerably subdued when compared to the rest of the record. Like a recap, it fervidly peaks one last time before gently fades away into thin air. This is a really nice, atmospheric ending to such a strong album.
All in all, I am happy Causa Sui haven’t decided to follow any of the current trends in the stoner/psychedelic sphere. They have always pursued their own path, creating and developing that trademark style. At this point, I wouldn’t even want them to change, because they’re so good at what they do.
Return to Sky is one of the most enjoyable records in their catalog so far and a must listen for anyone.
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