Matt Cameron – Cavedweller
(I’m A Seahorse Music / GMR)
Reviewed by Bridget Herlihy.
Matt Cameron is without a doubt one of the most revered drummers in rock, and quite rightly so. Boasting a diverse and enviable career that spans over three decades, having served as drummer for Soundgarden since 1986, and Pearl Jam since 1998, not to mention Seattle legends Skin Yard, the beloved Temple of the Dog, Hater and Wellwater Conspiracy.
Only a few short weeks ago Cameron revealed via social media that he would be releasing his debut solo album, accompanying the announcement with the first single Time Can’t Wait. Taking many by surprise, it is a auditory treat to hear Cameron step out from behind his kit to not only write, but produce, an album that is quite frankly superb.
It is important to note, however, that Cavedweller was not written in response to the untimely passing of close friend and band mate Chris Cornell, but rather the product of solo writing that began in the mid 1980s; material that was put aside as Cameron focused on working with his respective bands. Nor is this album cut from the same cloth as Soundgarden or Pearl Jam. There are moments, however, that are reminiscent of some of the best moments from the aforementioned Hater.
Formidably taking on vocal duties as well as playing guitar, Cameron recruited bassist Tim Lefebrve and drummer Mark Giuliana, who notably appeared on the late David Bowie’s final album Blackstar. Opening track and first single Time Can’t Wait firmly sets the tone for the album; a solid rock track with pulsing riffs and just a touch of blues to compliment Cameron’s melodic vocals; a momentum that continues into second track All At Once which keeps the momentum rolling; a momentum that does not wane at any point in the duration of the album.
Each track had it’s own distinctive sound and story to tell. Blind and One Special Lady slow the pace down slightly, delivering are catchy, melodic riffs and some impressive acoustic guitar work of the latter. Instrumental track Into The Fire lays down a solid groove with added synths and some impressive guitar work. Final track Unnecessary is the heaviest of the nine tracks on the album, concluding the album on a high note as the beat abruptly slows in the final seconds of the track, closing the album on a high note.
Despite some of the album’s material having been written decades ago, in no way has it dated, in fact, quite the opposite. Cavedweller paints an impressive sonic portrait of a multi-talented artist who sounds just as comfortable playing a guitar and singing as he does behind his kit. Decades in the making, this album may have indeed spent time dwelling in caves – methaphorically spreaking – but it has truly been worth the wait as it came to fruition. I sincerely hope that this is not the last we have seen or heard of Mr Cameron’s solo work.
