With one foot in the past and another in the present, Calvyn Cass continues to reinvent himself with his single “You Always”. The Pop/EDM artist has always had a passion for remixing attributes we’re all fairly familiar with. Much of their influence comes from the 90s and early 00’s power acts but combines it with contemporary sensibilities and the end result with “You Always” is something that sounds like it would sit comfortably alongside the works of MIKA or Perfume Genius.
Their last single “White Flag” was a more somber affair, not quite a dance hit but more so an introspective look on insecurities and trust. Those elements are here too as Cass plays a blame game of sorts over the dissolvent of a relationship, but balances it with the pop sensibilities that turn it into an all-out club banger. With songs like this, the mood is one of the most important elements and this one drips with it. You can almost feel the exhaustion of Cass as they try to reclaim their own narrative and independence, and a lot of the venting that comes in the form of the song must have been a source of catharsis for both him and I can imagine it will be for the listener as well.
Most of the pop aspects of it lie in the lyrics and the real tight hook, but if you removed them, the repetitive nature is something firmly from the EDM camp. It has your fair share of micro drops, blasts of sounds, and reverb aplenty, but luckily it’s never overstuffed or overwhelming. There’s a lot of polish and control on display from Cass, who you can tell very genuinely believes in the story and emotions they’re trying to convey. It’s theatrical in a way, and I can very easily see plenty of people dancing alongside the track at various clubs. It could also very much become a power anthem for plenty. A joy with Cass and their expression is the wrapping in which the track accompanies. The aesthetic is camp and queen and truthfully, iconic.
You can see the paper trail of Cass’ influences, but the final result doesn’t feel like an imitation of it. You might have been mocked at some point for the things you were into at your age, but if that’s what got you to be the adult you are, what’s wrong with that? Cass is no different as you can see they identify with artists who thrive with pure unfiltered expression, the combination of music and art, and maintaining an independent soul with a mainstream ear. I could very easily hear this song alongside commercials, TV, and Movie usage. It’s adaptable and infectious and Cass has only continued to push themselves further and further as an entertainer, personality, and provocateur. If this is the kind of work and persons we get in a post glam Gaga world, we’re all the better for it. Calvyn Cass is one of a kind and you should always notice.
Claire Uebelacker