NEEDTOBREATHE burst onto the Christian rock scene in 2006 with their major label debut Daylight. While showing promise, the album was fairly derivative of the work of bands like U2 and Coldplay. With Caves, the South Carolina quartet really comes into their own, delivering a set of anthemic, passionate rock songs anchored by emotional vocals and lyrics.
The album opens with the title track, a soaring arena-ready singalong that sets the tone for the record. Other highlights include "Signature of Divine (Yahweh)," which starts softly before building to a cathartic climax, and "White Fences," featuring one of the catchiest choruses on the album. The band mines a similar sonic territory on "Clear," "Lay 'Em Down," and "Stones Under Rushing Water," big songs meant to be shouted along to in concert or blasted in the car.
While NEEDTOBREATHE have often worn their faith on their sleeve, the spiritual content is more subtle and poetic on Caves. Songs like "The Outsiders" touch on existential themes set to textured, atmospheric arrangements. Vocalist Bear Rinehart has an earthy, passionate delivery, like the Black Crowes' Chris Robinson but with a bit more range and power.
Caves finds NEEDTOBREATHE coming into their own identity, separate from their influences. The songs are uniformly strong, from the tender piano ballad "Difference Maker" to the surging, dramatic "Something Beautiful." Producer Dan Huff gives the album a polished but not overly slick sheen. NEEDTOBREATHE have arrived as a radio-ready band with depth, willing to grapple with big questions in their lyrics. Caves is an impressive sophomore effort.