Take Saturn Return's "no strings" At Face Value

We hope your ‘new release’ radar is working, because this EP is both innovative—almost practical, and driven by a force that introduces listeners to an in-depth—almost foreign way of songwriting that’s just begging to be dissected and looked into.

Excelling in alchemic, progressive rock is Saturn Return, a musical duo hailing from Denver and New York City. They have been in the scene for quite some time now, marking “no strings” as their fourth release in over six years.

What should we expect from this EP? Well, this duo is taking us on a journey in a span of four songs, without using any live instrument at all. For the entire record, all instruments are electronic. However, it’s still amazing to think about how some progressions and sounds are almost unreplicatable by traditional instruments and vice versa.

Take “bynepor”, the first track, as an example. All effects involved in it have their own purpose in adding depth and intricacy to the whole sound, as if individually tinkered with precision. There’s also a tempo change, which is seamless and appealing, showcasing more techniques and possible arrays of sound with this style of music.

The patterns and repetitive nature within these songs are brain-scratchers; the lyrics aren’t the type to be understood right away, although the band does claim that their work is prominent on the occult, the mystical. The vocals compliment its instrumentals, but it also strays away from the gentleness of it all with the slight growl, gruff, and emphasis in some parts.

In “kun”, the instruments sound as if it mimics actual ones, contrary to the first track. The harmonies provide a new perspective to the sound profile of the EP; the lingering, subtle buzz pans from left to right while everything else continues to go on. Despite the actual background and process of how these songs are made, it all—to an extent—has that raw feel, reminiscent of bands like Linkin Park, especially the vocals.

It’s clear in their songwriting how limitless they make describing and telling stories seem, that they’re onto something and they should not be taken lightly. This somewhat inflicts a sense of enlightenment, as if flipping a switch in the listener’s mind to crank up the curiosity and eagerness to know more.

“neidan” consists of a buildup with futuristic or tech-y effects such as feedback, which creates a unique ambience. The lines “Not cast in phantom subtle forms / Nor notions of intuitive dream truths / But here, now, and luminous” talks about concrete presence and not abstract mysticism. In other words, the preference of direct encounter with mystery and transformation as opposed to something that’s intangible. It’s always remarkable to see complex concepts fit in creative mediums such as music.

Starting off isolated, the vocals in “Under a Supermoon” sounds as if it’s recorded in outer space, and the arrangement itself contributes to that idea. At the two minute mark, it introduces new rhythms that enhance the song’s texture and energy, of which none are overbearing at all. This is still something to consider listening to even if you’re looking for something sedated, as the overall vibe offers that sense of calm as well.

Utterly insightful, niche, and beautifully strange are some words that would describe “no strings” perfectly. These songs are concept-driven, and at the same time it holds a uniqueness within Saturn Return’s production preference of what to use and what not to. This record is far from simple, yet audiences are bound to stick around and be drawn in by intrigue and interest.