SINGLE REVIEW: Katarsis – Kas man be jūros

‘…a stunningly cinematic affair that keeps true to the dark intimacy of Katarsis’ sound…’

Despite the contest currently existing in a state of disrepute, to represent your nation on the Eurovision stage still offers the opportunity to access an audience far greater than nearly any other. Even if your music defies the standard expectations of shiny, well-produced, eurobeat-tinged pop, there is a place for your music, and Lithuania’s Katarsis are a fantastic example of this.

Originally the solo project of frontman Lukas Radzevičius, Katarsis would develop into a fully fledged four-piece by the time they represented Lithuania with their brooding alternative rock number ‘Tavo akys’. What has since followed has been calls across the continent for Katarsis to come and visit, alongside sold-out shows in Lithuania. That only seems likely to continue with their incredible new single, ‘Kas man be jūros’.

Rather than simply releasing ‘Tavo akys’ 2.0, which no doubt would have earned them commendable streaming numbers, the band have cleverly built upon and evolved the ideas that were present in their big hit to create something fresh and invigorating. Soft guitar strumming rattles atop of rich, brooding bass lines, before the track surges towards with simplistic yet strident percussion.

Sparkling picked guitar melodies dance above the moody, enrapturing vocals of Radzevičius, offering some gorgeous sonic light and shade. All of this builds towards an electronic rock climax that rolls forwards like an encroaching tide; bleeps and beeps sit atop of rhythms that almost feel dance inspired, hypnotic in their tempo and structure. It’s a stunningly cinematic affair that keeps true to the dark intimacy of Katarsis’ sound.

Katarsis seem destined to surpass the title of ‘former Eurovision contestant’, and become cult stars of the alternative rock scene. ‘Kas man be jūros’ is a magnificently composed work of art that eschews any desire to achieve a mainstream popularity, and stays true to what made Katarsis the enchanting underdogs they presented as.

For Fans Of: Seahaven, Slow Crush, Loathe, Labyrinthine Oceans, My Bloody Valentine

Follow the band on social media below:

Instagram // Spotify