While scientists are arguing over whether we have already left the geological epoch of the Holocene behind us, KAVERNIST from Ulm share with us their view of an age that was, or perhaps still is, mainly shaped by the human race. It does not come as a surprise that the “Blues” here does not seem to arise from the fact that this age might be fading. Instead, it points to our actions as humanity.
Across 14 tracks and roughly 32 minutes of playing time, Holocene Blues points directly at us and our so-called “society”. The album title therefore provides more of a context than a consistent concept underlying all of the lyrics. The world is already deeply damaged. Humans are born into its destruction, only to become servants of the machine. Old hatred returns in waves, while panic, isolation and depression seem to be symptoms of tortured souls. Spoiler: the lyrics do not promise a better future. What remains is not hope, but resistance. All of this is packed into a rather traditional form of Death Metal that never forgets the band’s Crust background. The songs are constantly twisting and turning. Unless I missed something, I do not think a single one maintains the same tempo throughout. There are merciless slow and mid-tempo passages recalling the mighty BOLT THROWER, as well as Thrash riffs you have to kneel down to.
The best example is probably „Damage Dealer“. The song simply rips. It moves between fast paced old school Thrash and a crushing Death Metal steamroller. The transitions work so well because of how tightly all three members pull them off. And this goes for the whole record. On most songs, the guitarist and bassist also share vocal duties, adding the final layer to a consistent and uncompromising piece of Death Metal. KAVERNIST know exactly what they are doing. And „Never a Chance“ shows that they can do things differently as well. The longest song on the record showcases a stripped-down bass passage, dissonant guitars and mighty dual vocals pushed right to the front of the mix. It is a one-off on the album, but it works well. Despite tagging themselves as „Cave Metal“, KAVERNIST get quite technical. I saw them live twice this summer and can say that they nail their material. By the time this review drops, they will already be on their „Kavetrip“ tour together with FALSETRIP. Go and see them live. It is great exercise for your neck! Whatever geological epoch we are living in, Holocene Blues hits like a hammer.
It was released in collaboration between two fine DIY record labels in southern Germany: Civilisation Records and Zann’s Records. You can get the record on vinyl, tape and CD. The great artwork was created by Tom „Bloodlust“ Kruijer.
| Band | Kavernist |
| Record | Holocene Blues |
| Release date | 05.09.2026 |
| Label | Civilisation Records Zann’s Records |
| Links | Instagram Bandcamp |