Cassiel - Polar

Cassiel

Polar
self-released; 2022

3.7 out of 5

By My Nguyen
​

Cassiel is a brand-new indie/rap artist who is based out of Australia and first got his start halfway through 2021. He is releasing his debut full-length album Polar, an album that like its title takes on a kind of coldness. Throughout this release the artist tries to work off from the dynamics of the previous song, keeping the songs on this record seamless and cohesive throughout. 

Polar begins with “Wish You All The Best (ft. Benji),” starting off to some intricate guitar riffs, synths and electronic beats. Gradually, you hear Cassiel’s vocal harmonies which add something extra to this R&B track. The beats and rhythms point to some old school hip hop and R&B back in the day. To the sound of more sparse guitar riffs, eventually, the beats enter for a more action-paced sound on “Deity Girl.” Next, the artist incorporates more guitar work.The song was upbeat. Up next is “Burn Your Roses,” where some Spanish guitars bring up a very fiery vibe. 

Dynamic chord progressions on the acoustic guitar follows through on the start of “Over Soon.”Next, some percussive beats arrive for a more revved feel. The music leaned into a R&B and indie rock vibe. Some keys and synths arrest the vibes towards the start of “What You Need.” This track felt very much like a slow burning number as it takes its time in unfolding with no rush from the artist at all. More contagious-sounding guitars come forward on “Left Of Me.” I This track sounded pop-oriented. Cassiel’s vocals here are autotuned which added a distorted robotic effect to the vibes.

On “Frostbite,” some synths meet the start of this track alongside some grooving electric guitar. Next, some beats gain traction for another slow burning number. Cassiel’s vocals work in mood and feeling. On “Goosebumps,” more warm acoustic guitar comes in here. Another song about heartbreak, the artist’s vocals are tinged with regret and longing here. Cassiel’s chill sound continues on “Forget,” mixing hip hop and pop rock. The album culminates in this soulful-sounding closer. 

​I thought these tracks had a great pop element to them. With some huge beats, upbeat tunes and infectious harmonies, I thought each of these tracks definitely had a dance-worthy vibe to them. Cassiel’s vocals have a way of taking in just the right cadence to either express dealing with heartbreak, unexpected loss or a fracture in a relationship. The artist shows a lot of potential and I look forward to hearing more from him.

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