Album Review: The Cave Singers - Naomi
- Written by Rob Barker
It’s been two years since the release of ‘No Witch’, The Cave Singers’ last album. Following in its indie-folk footsteps is fourth record Naomi. The similarities between the two albums are clear: much like for the screentime-seeking participants of The Jeremy Kyle Show, the results of a DNA test for No Witch and Naomi would be totally unnecessary, unless there are bored mid-afternoon voyeurs who like gawking at musical paternity tests, of course. But this is getting off track.
All of the elements that define The Cave Singers are out in force: folk song structures, sparkling clean guitars and an overall feeling of nostalgia. Where Naomi stands out is not in the details, but in the fabric of every song.
Since No Witch the band has refined it sound even further, and with that a confidence shows through. Every sound is deliberate, precise and delivered with conviction, while avoiding the trap of sounding forced, contradictory but true.
Channelling a sense of '60s and '70s Americana, the album’s strengths lie in its simplicity, clean guitars play looping arpeggios, the rhythm section is up-front but stripped back, something that the band’s new bassist, ex-Blood Brothers stringsman Morgan Henderson, delivers with gusto.
The production is equally impressive, sparkling crystalline tones with an earthy warmth, deep impactful bass, great dynamics and definition, it’s all here, and you couldn’t be blamed for expecting it since Phil Ek, who’s worked with everyone from Fleet Foxes and Band of Horses to Mudhoney and Pretty Girls Make Graves, is behind the desk.
Despite the overarching sound there are some stand-out moments. ‘It’s A Crime’ introduces some bluesy grit in the form of overdrive, marking a tonal difference from much of the album’s tube-comforting cleanliness. The album’s general tone is defined on ‘Shine’ featuring an almost country-like twang, the track nearly has Allman Brothers-like sensibilities, and even has a brief harmonica break, just in case you needed reassuring of the album’s folk foundations.
‘Karen’s Car’ is another prime example of what The Cave Singers are all about, and what they can bring to the studio. Opening with a four-note guitar line before rolling drums come to the fore, the track builds layer upon layer, adding vocals a second guitar and crashing cymbals. The track is a masterclass in keeping the listener interested, without becoming stale on multiple listens.
If you’re a fan of folk, indie, classic American rock and a whole host of other elements, then give Naomi a try, there might not be much depth, but you’ll keep coming back for more, just to relive the experience.
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