Reviewed by Harry Kaplan
This LA outfit called Cave Flowers have hit a home run with their new release entitled Western Spectre. Very pleasing to the ears. At two listens through, I already love this release. This isn’t one of those records that “grows on you”. No, this was love at first sight for me. Or rather, love at first listen. If I put on my analyst hat, I would say that Western Spectre is one part Drive By Truckers, one part Byrds, one part Wilco, and one part T Rex. Yes I said T Rex. There is definitely a little bit of glam rock in this. They fuse these influences together to create something that is unique to them. If you like any of the four aforementioned bands, you will definitely enjoy Western Spectre.
They have been together for at least 7 years and in that time span, it is obvious that they have worked hard honing their musical skills. The musicianship and vocals are top notch and rival any successful Americana band. As I listen, I am really taken by how clean the production and mix is. It’s a very professional job. That’s one of those things that, if it’s done right, you don’t notice it. It’s very seamless and blends all of the elements perfectly.
If I have to pick a word to describe this release, I would say restraint. Cave Flowers pick their spots well. There are moments of pedal steel, twang, and crunchy guitar riffs. But, it’s about the right place and the right time for these four lads. They know how to use their weapons strategically so they have the maximum effect.
The boys come out of the gate strong with Garbage and Gold, which was released as a single this past September. The first 15 seconds are dominated by a really infectious guitar riff and some really fine boogie woogie piano. This track definitely displays notes of T Rex. It’s a perfect fusion with their overall Americana sound. This is a really beautiful song with great lyrics, strong musicianship, powerful vocals, and sublime harmonies.
Eight of the ten songs on this collection clock in between three and a half and four minutes long. There are two songs that are in the six minute range, Invisible Tonight and Good Luck Charm. Both of these offerings, while on the lengthy side, don’t feel long at all. They are both melodically solid and have exciting features that keep the listener engaged throughout the entire tracks. Both songs play out like novellas or short films. They have a clear start, middle and end. Almost replicating the human life cycle. Both songs start off quiet, get loud and a bit cacophonous in the middle, and then end on a quiet note.
This album is about teamwork and balance. All of the players contribute unselfishly to achieve that perfect end result. It’s time to introduce the craftsman responsible for Western Spectre. Andy McAllister handles the vocals and acoustic guitar with Henry Derek Elis responsible for those powerful electric guitar fills. The rhythm section is comprised of Ben Coil on bass and Curtis Pettygrove on the kit. Rounding out the band for this release is Jon Niemann on the keys and Jordan Walton adding some complimentary vocals, organ, and pedal steel.
Western Spectre is pure ear candy and based on what I have heard so far, it will have staying power. The music is solid with very memorable instrumentation that is tangible and heartfelt. The lyrics walk that tight rope between being literal and abstract so each song is open to interpretation. Finally, the vocals pull everything together perfectly. You may not realize that you need this release in your collection yet but trust me, you do.
Listen to Western Spectre here