Caveman: Otero War

Lee Zimmerman on September 19, 2016

It ought to be noted that Caveman’s approach isn’t anywhere near as primitive as their handle might suggest. Over the past five years, the Brooklyn-based band has released two collections of adventurous indie rock that border on a proto-progressive sound. The new album’s title doesn’t enhance that description, but the music itself speaks volumes. It boasts an infectious enthusiasm that spurs songs such as “Life or Just Living,” “All My Life” and “On My Own” on to greater heights. Still, Caveman are truly at their best when they vary the template, as on opening track “Never Going Back,” where they start out in a mellower mode before breaking into a wholly assertive romp. This is a band with an abundant reserve of passion and bravado. If, at times, the melodies sound somewhat rote, all it takes is an upsurge in tone and tempo—like the sort found on “Lean on You,” “80 West” and “The State of Mind”—to keep the interest intact. Caveman’s confidence makes it apparent they’re quite comfortable with their blueprint, and their ability to balance both the cerebral and celebratory. Given that effort, it’s a fairly good bet that Caveman will continue to evolve.

Artist: Caveman
Album: Otero War
Label: Cinematic Music