We’ve seen the guitar, piano, drums trio before in DC but Caverns take that combination into a territory so far removed from the tightly crafted pop songs or gritty garage rock that sounds a little more familiar. The intricate melodies of pianist Patrick Taylor and the dissonant shrieks from Kevin Hillard’s guitar make for strange bedfellows, but the somewhat harsh juxtaposition, especially when backed by drummer Ross Hurt is not only memorable but highly enjoyable. It’s clear upon repeated listens that they’re just as influenced by classical and jazz music as post-rock and punk. Never has such a complete sonic assault sounded so sweet.

Then there’s the live show. Anyone who has to play after Caverns is almost bound to be a letdown. The seizure-inducing light show is the perfect complement to the sometimes melodic, sometimes aggressive sound. Despite having two seated band members, the band oozes energy. Hillard won’t hesitate to enter the audience and during one Black Cat show, handed the concertgoers confetti to throw up in the air at the appropriate moment. These guys appreciate the full package. We talked to Hillard, Hurt and Taylor and found out why Taylor doesn’t drive on their tour, their comparisons between DC and North Carolina and the truth about the function of their fourth member.

Find them online: http://www.myspace.com/caverns

See them live: Nov. 9th at American University or Nov. 25th at the Black Cat Backstage with Coliseum.