No Witch

The Cave Singers continue their roots music deconstructions on their third release, only this time they pull out the guitar amps, get gritty, and flesh out their sound. No Witch begins with “Gifts and the Raft” and “Swim Club”, two acoustic gems that feature memorable fiddle and viola hooks and which would have fit in well on their first two albums. From there things take an unexpectedly dark and muscular turn. “Black Leaf” is edgy and snarling; “Falls” boasts a hypnotic electric guitar riff, nimble drumming, and soulful organ fills; modal guitar and Eastern percussion propel the gauzy “Outer Realms” and “Faze Wave”; and the stomping closer, “No Prosecution If We Bail”, is a reminder that each of the three members cut their teeth in indie rock bands. Overall, the band sounds energetic and driven and Pete Quirk’s raspy vocals are as strong and assured as ever. Textured and eclectic, No Witch signals a thrilling new direction for the band.