The Caezars “S/T”

It seems a lifetime since we were extoling the virtues of the Caezars and declaring they have ‘the song-writing skills and live-ability to re-energise Rockabilly music for a whole new generation’. Although as we found out at Red Rooster Festival (see review here) it was actually about 10 years ago. We were absolutely delighted to learn not only that they were back together and performing live but that they had a new album out.

As soon as opening track “Back In The Jungle” kicks in it is clear that the 10 year absence has had no impact on the band. They still seem intent on delivering classic rock n roll songs that are built for dancing and good times. Songs like “Heartache Overload” and “Six Feet In The Ground” are just pure rock n roll played with devotion and passion. It’s kind of weird how such a relatively simplistic sound as displayed on “Dance To Keep From Crying” can have such a joyful impact on the listener.

On “Lovin’ Up A Storm” and “Be My Witch” we get a slightly darker tone which has that dirty, gutter style that you’d perhaps associate with a band like The Cramps. Whilst “Mad Man” and “You Can Love Me” have a harder rocking sound similar to His Lordship. But don’t worry, those just craving the joy of great rockabilly style songs are more than catered for with songs like “Shakedown” and “Lou Lou”.

The challenge for a band like The Caezars is how to capture their frantic live energy and passion on vinyl. The fact they recorded this album live may explain why songs like “Dirty Robber” seem to literally jump out of the speakers. This is an album that is just begging to be played loud.

So once again we are left in no doubt that The Caezars remain one of the finest modern bands playing this type of pure rock n roll. When we first heard them the only bands we recall being this good at this sound were the likes of JD McPherson and Darrel Higham’s numerous projects. Now it’s probably only the previously mentioned His Lordship who are getting any kind of decent exposure. What The Caezars need is a scene similar to when The Stray Cats resurrected this rockabilly sound. That seems unlikely in the current music climate but for those of you who love rock n roll at least you have a new damn fine album to add to your vinyl collection.