Causers of This

Released in early 2010, Causers of This is widely considered one of the 'big three' albums that defined the chillwave genre, alongside works by Neon Indian and Washed Out. Recorded primarily in Chaz Bear's bedroom, the album represents a significant shift toward electronic production compared to his later, more organic instrumentation. The record is notable for its heavy use of side-chain compression, which gives the synths a 'pumping' or 'breathing' quality, and its reliance on 80s-inspired palettes filtered through a modern, glitchy lens. Critics at the time, including those from AllMusic and BBC Music, noted its ability to balance danceable grooves with a deeply introspective, almost melancholic songwriting core. While often grouped with 'lo-fi' movements, the album displays a sophisticated understanding of pop structure and rhythmic complexity, particularly on tracks like 'Talamak' and 'Low Shoulder.' It remains a high-water mark for the 'bedroom producer' era.