4.2001

The Cautions (self-titled)
By Sean
DigitalArtifact.org/247.htm

Somewhere between Weezer and a Rubik's Cube lies The Cautions and their self-titled debut album. The band has an overtly 80s feel with modern British elements. Singer and guitarist Eric Barao sings with a British accent, which might hurt the ears of pure linguists, but for a band looking for a certain feel or sound, his altered diction works just fine.

The album cover sports cartoon depictions of the band itself unequivocally reminiscent of the type of animation Dire Straits made famous with "Money for Nothing." The Cautions take inspirations from England and America, puts them into a blender, and purees them into their own sound.

In the music industry, catchy guitar riffs are called hooks. They're the things that get bands on the charts and into our heads (think of "Satisfaction" or "Walk This Way") and The Cautions are somewhat novice when coming up with such catch licks. However, they do show promise, especially in "Game Show" where Barao and guitarist Jeff Caglarcan pick out the theme to "Jeopardy!"  It's a song that could definitely get radio play so as long as Alex Trebek doesn't mind.

While the 80s-like guitar and synthesizer are strictly retro, the lyrics are modern and poignant. In "Out of Print," Barao sings, "I'm not going to miss the company you keep, / the snoring in your sleep. / I won't miss the lipstick on every goddamn glass / in my kitchen sink." It's fun music with pointed lyrics exhibiting more depth than some of the saccharine-ridden tunes from the years of Reagan and New Coke.

The Cautions get into their element on the final track of the album, "Groove Baby Groove." They seem to loosen up a bit and let loose with faster riffs and tempos and some good old fashioned sweat. They rock, roll, and wail and as an opening band with a little more exposure, they could be the new house band on "Jeopardy!" in no time.