Caveman Unleashes Haunting ‘Like Me’ Music Video & Announces Deeply Personal Album ‘Smash’

NYC indie rock stalwarts Caveman are back, and they’re inviting you into a world where dread lurks behind every window. Their new music video for the dreamy, yet unsettling single ‘Like Me’ masterfully blends the voyeuristic suspense of Alfred Hitchcock’s ‘Rear Window’ with the creeping horror of John Carpenter’s ‘Halloween.’ It’s a cinematic nightmare that perfectly complements the song’s evolving emotional landscape, signaling a powerful return for the long-running rockers.

Prepare to have your perception of whimsical costumed figures irrevocably altered after experiencing ‘Like Me.’ Premiering exclusively on HollywoodLife, this visual masterpiece from Caveman — comprised of the talented trio Matthew Iwanusa, Jimmy Carbonetti, and Jeff Berrall — crafts a black-and-white tableau steeped in bubbling dread and profound unease. The scene opens with Matthew Iwanusa at a piano, his fingers coaxing the melancholy notes of ‘Like Me’ into existence. As the camera subtly pans, it reveals an open window, a gateway to a shadowy Brooklyn street corner where a masked figure stands motionless beneath a streetlight. The tension is palpable, a silent threat that slowly begins its unnerving approach as the song’s ethereal synths swell and its crashing drums explode, amplifying Matthew’s haunting vocal delivery. The monochromatic world is then abruptly, chillingly, pierced by stark flashes of red, a stark visual punctuation that shatters the calm and plunges the viewer into a visceral experience of panic.

Matthew Iwanusa, the creative force behind the concept, shared his inspiration with HollywoodLife, stating, “I have always been a huge fan of Hitchcock, and I have had this video idea for a slow song for years. It finally seemed to fall into place with ‘Like Me.’” Indeed, the “Master of Suspense” himself would undoubtedly nod in approval not just at the video’s expertly crafted visual tension, but also at the brilliant use of sound within ‘Like Me’ to amplify the pervasive sense of something being profoundly wrong. The song begins with a deceptive gentleness, a subtle, warming intoxication akin to the initial moments of euphoria. But this soft opening is merely a prelude. ‘Like Me’ meticulously builds, layer by layer, into a magnificent discordance, a sonic journey that culminates in a raw, distorted guitar riff that promises to ignite the soul of any discerning rock fan. Within its intricate tapestry, the song weaves together elements of danger, panic, laughter, confusion, and a strange, almost unsettling glee, creating a rich and complex emotional experience.

‘Like Me’ stands as the inaugural single from Caveman’s eagerly anticipated upcoming LP, titled Smash, which is slated for release on July 16 via Fortune Tellers, the esteemed label helmed by Peter Matthew Bauer of the iconic NYC rockers The Walkmen. This album marks Caveman’s first full-length offering since 2016’s critically acclaimed Otero War, making its arrival a significant event for fans and the indie rock scene alike. More than just a new collection of songs, Smash is poised to be the band’s most profoundly personal and introspective release to date. A significant portion of the album’s material was crafted in the aftermath of a deeply personal loss for Matthew Iwanusa – the passing of his cousin, whose cherished nickname, “Smash,” ultimately became the poignant title of this new LP. Consequently, the entire musical landscape of the album is deeply inspired by her memory and influence. As revealed when the song first premiered on Brooklyn Vegan earlier in the month, Matthew candidly shared that ‘Like Me’ specifically delves into the profound experience of feeling “completely lost,” a desolate state that eventually leads to the crucial realization of having “been placing the blame on everything else but yourself.” This theme of introspection, accountability, and navigating profound emotional terrains suggests a lyrical depth that matches the sonic complexity.

The visual narrative of the ‘Like Me’ video is a masterclass in psychological suspense. The choice of black and white cinematography amplifies the sense of unease, stripping away the comfort of color and forcing the viewer to focus on the stark contrast between light and shadow, safety and perceived threat. The slow, deliberate pan of the camera through the window mirrors the voyeuristic gaze often employed by Hitchcock, placing the viewer in the shoes of an observer who becomes increasingly entangled in a unfolding drama. The masked figure, a simple yet terrifying motif, evokes the faceless horror of iconic slasher films, but with a more subtle, psychological menace. It’s not just about a physical threat; it’s about the fear of the unknown, the creeping realization that the outside world, or perhaps one’s own inner demons, are drawing closer. The sudden bursts of red are particularly effective, shattering the illusion of safety and injecting a jolt of visceral fear, suggesting violence or an emotional outburst that can no longer be contained within the monochromatic facade. This blend of classic cinematic techniques with modern indie rock sensibilities creates a truly unforgettable visual and auditory experience.

Beyond the captivating music video and deeply personal themes, the impending release of Smash carries significant weight for the New York City music scene. Based on this powerful first impression, the album is poised to emphatically silence any naysayers who lament the supposed “death” of NYC’s vibrant rock landscape. Caveman, a band deeply rooted in Brooklyn, where they hone their craft, and who consider Baby’s All Right their spiritual home, is more than just a musical act; they are a testament to the enduring creative spirit of the city. With Smash, they are not just releasing an album; they are potentially ushering in a significant revitalization for the city’s indie and rock communities. The album’s arrival on July 16, both in the bustling streets of the Big Apple and across all major streaming services worldwide, promises to re-energize the scene, proving that authentic, innovative rock music continues to thrive in New York. This release isn’t merely a comeback for Caveman; it’s a declaration that the heart of NYC rock beats stronger than ever, fueled by introspection, raw emotion, and a hauntingly beautiful sound that resonates with universal truths.

The creative process behind Smash and particularly ‘Like Me’ underscores Caveman’s evolution as artists. The meticulous attention to detail in the music video, from the nuanced performances to the striking cinematography, demonstrates a band unafraid to explore darker, more complex psychological narratives. Musically, ‘Like Me’ showcases a maturation in their sound, blending their signature fuzzy, dreamy aesthetic with a newfound intensity and emotional rawness. The juxtaposition of ethereal elements with moments of sharp, distorted aggression creates a dynamic listening experience that reflects the internal struggles Matthew describes. This layered approach is indicative of an album that will likely reward repeated listens, revealing new depths and nuances with each engagement. Fans who have followed Caveman since their earlier works will find familiar elements woven into a fresh, more profound tapestry, while new listeners will discover a band at the peak of their creative powers.

The anticipation for Smash is not just about the return of a beloved band, but about the promise of an album that speaks to the human condition with honesty and artistic daring. In an era often dominated by fleeting trends, Caveman continues to carve out a unique space, crafting music that is both timeless and deeply contemporary. Their ability to fuse classic cinematic suspense with modern indie rock, and to translate personal grief into universal emotional resonance, cements their position as essential voices in today’s music landscape. Mark your calendars for July 16th, and prepare to be immersed in the haunting, beautiful, and profoundly moving world of Caveman’s Smash. This is more than just an album; it’s an experience.

Caveman Unleashes Haunting ‘Like Me’ Music Video & Announces Deeply Personal Album ‘Smash’

NYC indie rock stalwarts Caveman are back, and they’re inviting you into a world where dread lurks behind every window. Their new music video for the dreamy, yet unsettling single ‘Like Me’ masterfully blends the voyeuristic suspense of Alfred Hitchcock’s ‘Rear Window’ with the creeping horror of John Carpenter’s ‘Halloween.’ It’s a cinematic nightmare that perfectly complements the song’s evolving emotional landscape, signaling a powerful return for the long-running rockers.

Prepare to have your perception of whimsical costumed figures irrevocably altered after experiencing ‘Like Me.’ Premiering exclusively on HollywoodLife, this visual masterpiece from Caveman — comprised of the talented trio Matthew Iwanusa, Jimmy Carbonetti, and Jeff Berrall — crafts a black-and-white tableau steeped in bubbling dread and profound unease. The scene opens with Matthew Iwanusa at a piano, his fingers coaxing the melancholy notes of ‘Like Me’ into existence. As the camera subtly pans, it reveals an open window, a gateway to a shadowy Brooklyn street corner where a masked figure stands motionless beneath a streetlight. The tension is palpable, a silent threat that slowly begins its unnerving approach as the song’s ethereal synths swell and its crashing drums explode, amplifying Matthew’s haunting vocal delivery. The monochromatic world is then abruptly, chillingly, pierced by stark flashes of red, a stark visual punctuation that shatters the calm and plunges the viewer into a visceral experience of panic.

Matthew Iwanusa, the creative force behind the concept, shared his inspiration with HollywoodLife, stating, “I have always been a huge fan of Hitchcock, and I have had this video idea for a slow song for years. It finally seemed to fall into place with ‘Like Me.’” Indeed, the “Master of Suspense” himself would undoubtedly nod in approval not just at the video’s expertly crafted visual tension, but also at the brilliant use of sound within ‘Like Me’ to amplify the pervasive sense of something being profoundly wrong. The song begins with a deceptive gentleness, a subtle, warming intoxication akin to the initial moments of euphoria. But this soft opening is merely a prelude. ‘Like Me’ meticulously builds, layer by layer, into a magnificent discordance, a sonic journey that culminates in a raw, distorted guitar riff that promises to ignite the soul of any discerning rock fan. Within its intricate tapestry, the song weaves together elements of danger, panic, laughter, confusion, and a strange, almost unsettling glee, creating a rich and complex emotional experience.

‘Like Me’ stands as the inaugural single from Caveman’s eagerly anticipated upcoming LP, titled Smash, which is slated for release on July 16 via Fortune Tellers, the esteemed label helmed by Peter Matthew Bauer of the iconic NYC rockers The Walkmen. This album marks Caveman’s first full-length offering since 2016’s critically acclaimed Otero War, making its arrival a significant event for fans and the indie rock scene alike. More than just a new collection of songs, Smash is poised to be the band’s most profoundly personal and introspective release to date. A significant portion of the album’s material was crafted in the aftermath of a deeply personal loss for Matthew Iwanusa – the passing of his cousin, whose cherished nickname, “Smash,” ultimately became the poignant title of this new LP. Consequently, the entire musical landscape of the album is deeply inspired by her memory and influence. As revealed when the song first premiered on Brooklyn Vegan earlier in the month, Matthew candidly shared that ‘Like Me’ specifically delves into the profound experience of feeling “completely lost,” a desolate state that eventually leads to the crucial realization of having “been placing the blame on everything else but yourself.” This theme of introspection, accountability, and navigating profound emotional terrains suggests a lyrical depth that matches the sonic complexity.

The visual narrative of the ‘Like Me’ video is a masterclass in psychological suspense. The choice of black and white cinematography amplifies the sense of unease, stripping away the comfort of color and forcing the viewer to focus on the stark contrast between light and shadow, safety and perceived threat. The slow, deliberate pan of the camera through the window mirrors the voyeuristic gaze often employed by Hitchcock, placing the viewer in the shoes of an observer who becomes increasingly entangled in a unfolding drama. The masked figure, a simple yet terrifying motif, evokes the faceless horror of iconic slasher films, but with a more subtle, psychological menace. It’s not just about a physical threat; it’s about the fear of the unknown, the creeping realization that the outside world, or perhaps one’s own inner demons, are drawing closer. The sudden bursts of red are particularly effective, shattering the illusion of safety and injecting a jolt of visceral fear, suggesting violence or an emotional outburst that can no longer be contained within the monochromatic facade. This blend of classic cinematic techniques with modern indie rock sensibilities creates a truly unforgettable visual and auditory experience.

Beyond the captivating music video and deeply personal themes, the impending release of Smash carries significant weight for the New York City music scene. Based on this powerful first impression, the album is poised to emphatically silence any naysayers who lament the supposed “death” of NYC’s vibrant rock landscape. Caveman, a band deeply rooted in Brooklyn, where they hone their craft, and who consider Baby’s All Right their spiritual home, is more than just a musical act; they are a testament to the enduring creative spirit of the city. With Smash, they are not just releasing an album; they are potentially ushering in a significant revitalization for the city’s indie and rock communities. The album’s arrival on July 16, both in the bustling streets of the Big Apple and across all major streaming services worldwide, promises to re-energize the scene, proving that authentic, innovative rock music continues to thrive in New York. This release isn’t merely a comeback for Caveman; it’s a declaration that the heart of NYC rock beats stronger than ever, fueled by introspection, raw emotion, and a hauntingly beautiful sound that resonates with universal truths.

The creative process behind Smash and particularly ‘Like Me’ underscores Caveman’s evolution as artists. The meticulous attention to detail in the music video, from the nuanced performances to the striking cinematography, demonstrates a band unafraid to explore darker, more complex psychological narratives. Musically, ‘Like Me’ showcases a maturation in their sound, blending their signature fuzzy, dreamy aesthetic with a newfound intensity and emotional rawneess. The juxtaposition of ethereal elements with moments of sharp, distorted aggression creates a dynamic listening experience that reflects the internal struggles Matthew describes. This layered approach is indicative of an album that will likely reward repeated listens, revealing new depths and nuances with each engagement. Fans who have followed Caveman since their earlier works will find familiar elements woven into a fresh, more profound tapestry, while new listeners will discover a band at the peak of their creative powers.

The anticipation for Smash is not just about the return of a beloved band, but about the promise of an album that speaks to the human condition with honesty and artistic daring. In an era often dominated by fleeting trends, Caveman continues to carve out a unique space, crafting music that is both timeless and deeply contemporary. Their ability to fuse classic cinematic suspense with modern indie rock, and to translate personal grief into universal emotional resonance, cements their position as essential voices in today’s music landscape. Mark your calendars for July 16th, and prepare to be immersed in the haunting, beautiful, and profoundly moving world of Caveman’s Smash. This is more than just an album; it’s an experience.