Hailing from Glasgow and formed in 2021, The Kaves have built a name for themselves both locally and across the UK as rising stars in the world of current alt-rock, racking up 10s of thousands of plays on Spotify alone. With a love for bands such as The Smashing Pumpkins and Soundgarden, they continue to carry the torch for 90s rock but adding a 2020s flair.
Releasing their second EP ‘Exile’, The Kaves further explore their sound in the form of enthralling storytelling and anthemic sounds. The 4-track EP opens with Mr Hollywood, with a grungy guitar introduction which grabs you instantly, before whizzing through the story of Mr Hollywood who is compared to a ‘modern day Robin Hood’. An energetic track which I’m sure would go down a storm live.
Another unheard track prior to the EP’s release is Exile. Don’t be fooled by its fast-paced tempo, this song covers themes of loneliness and isolation masked by rip-roaring guitar lines and a robust drum part. The space given to the vocals in the verses really allows the chorus to have maximum impact when it arrives.
Somber may be my favourite of their most recent release with references to Barrowlands and Balado (I still miss you T in the Park) this one is certainly for the music lovers on this side of the border. With pangs of nostalgia, there is a moment to reflect in the verse, before an uplifting wall of sound brings us to the chorus, adding a dash of optimism.
This then takes us to the final track and lead single of the release, Superglue. With a very pleasing chord structure and melody combination, the chorus shows The Kaves at their full anthemic power, which I think will be a massive singalong moment at future shows. I also enjoyed the stop/start nature of the interlude between chorus and verse
Released earlier in September (4th) you can hear the EP in full below. You can also catch The Kaves live, touring across the UK later in the year in November.