Is Cause and Effect a good place to start with Keane?

Yes, Cause and Effect is recommended as a starting point for new Keane listeners. Ethereal melodies intertwine with introspective lyrics, creating a lush soundscape that reflects both nostalgia and emotional vulnerability. Released on September 20, 2019, 'Cause and Effect' marked Keane's fifth studio album and their first since a six-year hiatus following 'Strangeland' in 2012. This album saw the band returning to their roots after exploring solo projects, blending their signature piano rock with contemporary influences.

Who is Cause and Effect for?

Cause and Effect works well if you're into steady mid-tempo reflective moments, melancholic melodies for introspection and piano-driven sound for solitude.

How many songs are on Cause and Effect?

Cause and Effect has 11 tracks, running approximately 46 minutes.

Cause and Effect

Keane · 2019

46 min · 11 tracks · alternative rock

Ethereal melodies intertwine with introspective lyrics, creating a lush soundscape that reflects both nostalgia and emotional vulnerability.

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Top tracks — play these first

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You’re Not Home Start here — establishes the sonic palette early
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The Way I Feel — This track encapsulates the album's exploration of emotional complexity, showcasing soaring vocals and poignant piano arrangements that resonate deeply with listeners.
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Put the Radio On — With its upbeat tempo and catchy chorus, this song contrasts the album’s more somber themes, offering a glimpse of hope amidst introspection.
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I Need Your Love — This track stands out for its haunting melody and heartfelt lyrics, illustrating the longing for connection that permeates much of the album.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

50 /100

Foothills

Higher than 23% of albums we've rated

The album features solid songwriting and production but lacks a strong cohesive arc throughout its runtime.

What we noticed

The first three tracks feature a consistent mid-tempo pace, while the fourth track introduces a more upbeat rhythm that contrasts with the preceding songs.
Several tracks utilize layered vocal harmonies that build in intensity, particularly in the choruses, creating a lush soundscape.
The album closes with a ballad that gradually fades out, leaving an unresolved feeling that echoes the themes of emotional vulnerability.

Composition 25% of the score: 6/10
Craft 20% of the score: 7/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 6/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 5/10

Influence 4/10

Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

steady mid-tempo reflective moments
melancholic melodies for introspection
piano-driven sound for solitude
thoughtful lyrics during quiet times

Maybe skip if you

seek instant gratification tracks
prefer upbeat party anthems

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Late Career Highlight — Marks a strong return after a hiatus, showcasing mature songwriting and emotional depth.
Career context: Released on September 20, 2019, 'Cause and Effect' marked Keane's fifth studio album and their first since a six-year hiatus following 'Strangeland' in 2012. This album saw the band returning to their roots after exploring solo projects, blending their signature piano rock with contemporary influences.
Stylistic neighbors: Snow Patrol· Coldplay· Travis