There I was, sitting with much anticipation on the couch, phone in my hand. Once the album was fully downloaded I pressed play. A vibrant melody started to meander through my headphones and into my ears.
I sat there in awe.
I have always liked electronic music but once I listened to “In Return” by ODESZA, a music genre that I only liked turned into a genre that I loved. This album will make you feel like you are embarking on a deep space odyssey, but also like you are backpacking through India.
ODESZA is an indie electronica group that has been around for a couple of years now. Until recently, they were only known through Soundcloud and other similar sites. They recently made it onto iTunes when they put out a few singles, and now their album “In Return” is on iTunes as well.
It’s easy to love an album when each song collaborates so well with the others, which is exactly what this one does. All 13 songs on the album seem to offer something different, but also have similar beats and an amazing Bollywood feel to them.
Many songs on the album have featured artists. The first single to debut from the album was “Sun Models” and featured singer Madelyn Grant. When this song came out, it gave a good sense to what the rest the album might sound like. I know when I first heard the single it left me wanting to hear more.
The second single that was released is called “Memories That You Call” featuring Monsoonsiren. This single is actually a remix and different from the version on the actual album. The original versions of songs are usually better than the remixes, including this one.
The third single released from the album was actually the free single of the week on iTunes. It’s called “Say My Name,” featuring the artist Zyra. In my opinion, it has some of the catchiest vocals and lyrics out of all the songs on the album. The clever beats and simple lyrics will have you dancing and singing in seconds.
Not every album has a great opening song. However, “Always This Late,” the first song on the album, creates a memorable intro for what’s to come. It’s two minutes and 41 seconds of clap-able beats and soft melody.
There are four songs that are mainly instrumental and are actually some of the best songs on the album. “Bloom” has enough bass to wake the neighbors, and is one of my personal favorites. “Koto” is another favorite of mine and is a perfect example of the Bollywood influence in the album.
The other two instrumental songs on the album are called “Sundara” and “Kusanagi.” “Sundara” also has a Bollywood feel to it and is the shortest song on the album. “Kusanagi” provides the album with a soothing intermission from the rest of the album with a slow and soft melody.
A couple other songs on this album that I feel make the album what it is are the songs “All We Need,” featuring Shy Girls and “For Us,” featuring singer Briana Marela. Both are songs that will make you want to dance. “All We Need” is an overall happy song with Shy Girls adding a soulful vibe to the upbeat melody. “For Us,” with its moving beats and chimes, is the perfect way to end a brilliant album.
It’s rare to find an album that is just plain good from start to finish. ODESZA has made something beautiful with “In Return.” I highly anticipate their next electrifying piece of talent.
Brandon Steinbeigle • Sep 22, 2014 at 8:38 am
Great Article! It sounds like I need to scoop up this album. Fantastic writing.