Artist: Caveman
Album: Caveman
Label: Fat Possum
Release Date: April 2nd,
2013
Review by: Sean
Kayden
NYC dream-rockers Caveman return
with their eponymously titled sophomore album. Their 2011 debut record, “CoCo
Beware,” earned them much acclaim. The real test obviously comes with the
follow-up record and Caveman doesn’t falter. A deeper, richer, more melodic
sounding album is what “Caveman” is. It’s a shimmering, wistful collection of
songs that reflect those of the 80s British pop era as well as hints of The
Shins, Grizzly Bear and Fleet Foxes. Comparisons aside, Caveman’s intensely
satisfying second record captures a plaintive life, yet those impacted by it
will have their own subjective opinions.
The wailing guitars, the sensitivity in the vocals, and hazy snyths are
all driving forces behind “Caveman.” Their sound is unmatched in today’s ever
so increasingly expansion of indie rock bands (especially those from NYC).
While the album may not be something to fully blow you away, it’s still a
sumptuous communal set of songs. It’s definitely a slow burn of an album that
tests the patience of the listener. If you’re willing to stick around for the
entire show, you’re in for an experience that’s rare these days.
The album starts off with “Strange to Suffer.” It’s a dreamy, paradise encompassing song that is light on lyrics, but is as soothing as anything you could ever ask for. The subsequent track and first single, “In The City,” is the most upbeat song off the record. It’s airy, snyth-soaked, and melodically intoxicating. While rest of the album meanders through, it’s a trip worth taking. For everyone will take away a different experience, but all come to the conclusion that “Caveman” is significantly powerful on many unexplained levels. At times quite intimate such as with the song “I See You,” the folk rock, barebones track to sweeping efforts like “Where’s The Time?” and “Chances.” In fact, “I See You,” reminds me a lot of something found on both Local Natives’ latest masterpiece, “Hummingbird” and reminiscent of the band, “City and Colour.” No matter the similarities, “I See You” is one of Caveman’s most warm and sorrowful songs. It’s filled with sheer beauty and desolation. Admittedly so, the album runs its course a bit with the later tracks like “Never Want To Know” and “The Big Push.” They’re the lengthiest of songs found on “Caveman,” but offer no real surprises. Nonetheless, the listener will already be completely enthralled with the record that the end may not pose much of disappointment.
I heard the real assessment for a band is how they perform their songs live. Caveman has been known to put on great live shows. Therefore, it’s a great reassurance that the band is definitely something to rave about. While “Caveman” isn’t the music you’re blasting in your car or working out to, it’s rich textures, thick guitar layers, affectionate sensibilities will draw you in and hold you tight. Despite the slight tail off toward the end, that grasp it has on you may let up slightly so. Nonetheless, the first nine tracks will prove to be something wholly innovative, vastly pleasurable, and quite gentle as the listener navigates the shores of “Caveman,” never wanting to return to land.
The album starts off with “Strange to Suffer.” It’s a dreamy, paradise encompassing song that is light on lyrics, but is as soothing as anything you could ever ask for. The subsequent track and first single, “In The City,” is the most upbeat song off the record. It’s airy, snyth-soaked, and melodically intoxicating. While rest of the album meanders through, it’s a trip worth taking. For everyone will take away a different experience, but all come to the conclusion that “Caveman” is significantly powerful on many unexplained levels. At times quite intimate such as with the song “I See You,” the folk rock, barebones track to sweeping efforts like “Where’s The Time?” and “Chances.” In fact, “I See You,” reminds me a lot of something found on both Local Natives’ latest masterpiece, “Hummingbird” and reminiscent of the band, “City and Colour.” No matter the similarities, “I See You” is one of Caveman’s most warm and sorrowful songs. It’s filled with sheer beauty and desolation. Admittedly so, the album runs its course a bit with the later tracks like “Never Want To Know” and “The Big Push.” They’re the lengthiest of songs found on “Caveman,” but offer no real surprises. Nonetheless, the listener will already be completely enthralled with the record that the end may not pose much of disappointment.
I heard the real assessment for a band is how they perform their songs live. Caveman has been known to put on great live shows. Therefore, it’s a great reassurance that the band is definitely something to rave about. While “Caveman” isn’t the music you’re blasting in your car or working out to, it’s rich textures, thick guitar layers, affectionate sensibilities will draw you in and hold you tight. Despite the slight tail off toward the end, that grasp it has on you may let up slightly so. Nonetheless, the first nine tracks will prove to be something wholly innovative, vastly pleasurable, and quite gentle as the listener navigates the shores of “Caveman,” never wanting to return to land.
Grade: 8.5 out of 10
Key Tracks: “In The City,” “Ankles,” “Pricey,” “I See You”
Key Tracks: “In The City,” “Ankles,” “Pricey,” “I See You”
Published by Mountain Views News on April 13th, 2013
http://mtnviewsnews.com/v07/htm/n15/p13.htm
http://mtnviewsnews.com/v07/htm/n15/p13.htm
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