Album Review: Caustic Waves – Echoes (Self Released)

Caustic Waves, the Glasgow-based melodic alternative rock/post-hardcore one-man-band, will release the album, ‘Echoes’ on October 10th, 2025.

Hitting a creative career high, Neil Thomas aka Caustic Waves delivers the best thing to come from the alternative artist to date. Not just because it of its appealing and accessible alternative rock sound but because the excellence is consistent across the record. We’re not talking one or two bangers here; we’re talking an album full of them.

It is an inspired choice to start the album off with a nostalgic-laden, punchier, and energetic effort like the title track. It’s got a bit more bite, but also has a chorus that soars nicely, and Neil’s vocals are silky smooth. It sets an early bar, but it doesn’t take long for that bar to be passed thanks to the elastic guitar tones of Artificial Lies and the post-infused chorus, and thanks to the poppier Escape Your Fate, a track that embodies the catchy alternative energy and groove of Caustic Waves.

Throughout the album you’ll hear just enough rock nostalgia to warm the soul without it being the dominating feature. Caustic Waves can sound simultaneously old-school and modern, sometimes in the exact same track. Case in point, the excellent Quicksand. Another energetic listen with another kickass chorus.

It’s then time for something a bit mellower, a bit more progressive, and a bit more thought-provoking with Spotlights. The way Caustic Waves powers up in dramatic fashion for the potent chorus is so damn cool. An excellent track complimented by a series of varied efforts. First, the ear-worm that is Playing with Fire, a track that is a little bit poppy, a little bit funky, features a ton of alt-rock energy, alongside so many anthemic touches. Then, with Insignificance, a body shaking and mind opening twisty track. Before Blessing in Disguise warms the soul with its wistful rock tones and Compromised takes us in a heavier direction, albeit one with alternative twists and turns.

As I said before, it’s all about consistency and right up to the end, the album stays interesting and exciting. Even though there’s nothing ‘game changing’ here, Caustic Waves’ music has such a positive effect on the mind. It will make you feel happy, it will make feel introspective, and it will make you feel connected. I can’t think of any better way to tell you that this is a record that you must listen too.

It’s not quite done yet though, and with a blend of relaxed rocking tones and smooth vocals, Shadow of the Son creates a welcome listening experience. Before Neon Claws ends things in delightfully enthusiastic fashion. Want more nostalgic laden alternative rock and potent post kinks? This track delivers, and more. A hefty ending and the exclamation mark on the talents of Caustic Waves.

Caustic Waves – Echoes Track Listing:

1. Echoes
2. Artificial Lies
3. Escape Your Fate
4. Quicksand
5. Spotlights
6. Playing With Fire
7. Insignificance
8. Blessing In Disguise
9. Compromised
10. Shadow Of the Son
11. Neon Claws

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