Singapore’s The Caulfield Cult, far from being just that band that gave inspiration to Bring Me The Horizon’s ‘That’s The Spirit’ logo, offer up their most accomplished sound to date on their third almost-eponymous full-length, ‘Cult’. Seemingly waving goodbye to their iconic umbrella, if the album-art is anything to go by, The Caulfiled Cult keep the emotive punk-rock moving, adding an extra polish to the Balance & Composure emo-esque style of 2013’s ‘Things Can Only Get Worse From Here’.
With each track coming in at below the three minute mark, ‘Cult’ concisely showcases their soft nature (‘Our Wounded Vessel’) and their anger (‘I Can’t Save You’). It’s a blend that has drawn some comparably high-profile attention, not least from Self Defense Family and Drug Church member Patrick Kindlon who provides guest vocals on the latter.
And it’s easy to see why. ‘Cult’ is a noteworthy addition to the modern wave of emo, led by a remarkably raw attitude. As well as tugging at the heartstrings at all the right moments, the gritty vocals snap powerfully back out and fling ‘Cult’ full-force towards material by their more established contemporaries. The Caulfield Cult might not yet celebrate the same attention as some of their kin, but their sharp experience dominates on record. ‘Cult’ is right up there with the best of them.
BEN TIPPLE