Kicking Up the Dust
Cast · 2017
48 min · 11 tracks · alternative rock
An airy blend of melodic hooks and introspective lyrics that captures the essence of modern alternative rock.
Top tracks — play these first
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Roar — The lead single encapsulates the album's uplifting spirit with its anthemic chorus and vibrant instrumentation, showcasing the band's knack for catchy melodies.
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Further Down the Road — This track stands out for its reflective lyrics and soft yet compelling arrangement, embodying themes of resilience and forward movement present throughout the album.
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Paper Chains — With its layered harmonies and poignant storytelling, this song effectively balances nostalgia and hope, making it a highlight of the album's emotional landscape.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
The album features solid songwriting and production but lacks standout moments that elevate it beyond its genre.
What we noticed
- The first three tracks feature upbeat tempos and prominent guitar riffs, while the fourth track introduces a slower, more reflective mood.
- Several songs incorporate layered vocal harmonies that create a rich texture, particularly in the choruses.
- The album closes with a gradual tempo decrease over the last two tracks, allowing for a contemplative finish.
- Composition 25% of the score
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6/10
- Craft 20% of the score
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7/10
- Durability 25% of the score
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5/10
- Distinctiveness 18% of the score
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5/10
- Sequencing 12% of the score
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6/10
the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics
production, performance, arrangement
whether it rewards returning to it
whether it sounds like itself
running order, pacing, length
Little footprint beyond its audience. 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
- airy melodies with reflective lyrics
- mid-tempo tracks for road trips
- catchy hooks for sing-alongs
- uplifting vibes for sunny days
Maybe skip if you
- prefer heavy, intense sound
- seek minimalist arrangements
Where this album fits
- Career context
- Released in January 2017, Kicking Up the Dust marked Cast's return after a seven-year hiatus since their last album, Troubled Times. This album came during a period of renewed creativity for the band, as they sought to reconnect with their fanbase while evolving their sound.
Moments worth listening for
Where the writing does something specific.
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Every Little Thing You Do
The bridge introduces a moment of vulnerability where the singer confronts past mistakes directly.
This shift in tone from reflection to confrontation adds depth to the narrative, inviting listeners into a more intimate space.
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 Kicking Up the Dust 4:01
- 2 Roar 4:05
- 3 Do That 4:08
- 4 Further Down the Road 3:50
- 5 Paper Chains 5:25
- 6 Birdcage 4:58
- 7 Every Little Thing You Do 4:08
- 8 Baby Blue Eyes 3:58
- 9 How Can We Lose 5:18
- 10 Clear Blue Water 4:05
- 11 Out of My Hands 4:24
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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