Album Review: Caspian - Dust & Disquiet

I think the first time heard of Caspian was in 2007/2008 (can't really recall that) when The Four Trees came out. Then in 2012 I had the pleasure of seeing them live in Barcelona and the gig made such an impact to me I even blogged about it (that's way before Stereofox existed). And finally the 3 other performances in Berlin and the interview we did with the guys (watch here).

I guess there's something utterly cool about following a band and seeing them growing and evolving as the years go by. Some say post-rock is sort of a stale genre, but I think Caspian are the perfect example how to push boundaries sonic-wise. Hell, it was really nice and interesting to see them premiering the album on NY Times. Music is music. Good music cannot be put in a "song without vocals" statement.

My first "experience" with Dust & Disquiet was when Phil and Jani organized the private listenings in Berlin back in May.

I must say it was the first time I've ever attended such thing and it was out-of-this-world experience. Just pure music. Not giving a damn about song titles, how many tracks are there left. No rush, just Berlin's afternoon sun and Caspian's music. I would refrain myself from using post-rock. It feels somehow "constraining" right now, if you know what I mean. I'm not trying to say this is not instrumental music or post-rock, it just gravitates also towards other genres and feelings in general.

The first thing that really stuck to my mind is how awesomely disruptive "Arcs Of Command" feels after "Separation No. 2" and "Rioseco". As I said in my post review, if "Sad Heart Of Mine" was a soul shield, this feels like a blade. Something absolutely empowering.

Time for a new paragraph, because the next track is by far my most favourite one (after I would say 20+ album full plays). The vocals part of "Echo and Abyss" over that drum paradiddle is pure shivers. While the track still gives me this "on guard" follow-up feeling after "Arcs Of Command", there's somehow pulling down but in a way which makes you wanna resist. The track brought me back years when I discovered Caspian's mates Constants.

And after this intensity all slows down. "Run Dry" might be the ultimate surprise for the people, although after "CMF" I must say I always wanted to hear something tuned down and acoustic from the guys.

I won't go dissect every song. As always, if I share an album with you guys, I strongly believe the record should be heard from the first to the last record. Whether there's a logical sequence or not, it gives a good first overview before digging deep.

To put things shortly, this band will always be close to my heart and I utterly respect these dudes for doing what they do. I reckon it's not always easy and it's pretty complex and emotional at times, but I think it would be safe to say that for 10 years Caspian managed to establish themselves as one of the few bands which truly shaped a whole genre... and beyond.

Dust & Disquiet is out via Triple Crown Records / Big Scary Monsters.

Support good music. Besides iTunes (above) you can purchase digital, vinyl or CD copies - more info from bandcamp.