The last time we heard from Tom Dahl, the Norwegian power pop wizard behind Caddy, he was serving up a covers album featuring obscure ‘70s and ‘80s power pop and new wave tracks. I hadn’t realized a new Caddy album had dropped until a reader tipped me off. Without a presence on Bandcamp, Caddy can be easy to miss—which is unfortunate, as the band, now celebrating its 20th anniversary, is essential listening for fans of modern power pop.
Released a few months ago, the self-titled album features a nostalgic cover photo that looks like (I assume) a young Tom Dahl, surrounded by KISS and Ace Frehley posters. If In the Garage by Weezer springs to mind, you’re not alone—but honestly, I’d take Caddy over anything Weezer’s done in the last two decades. The album’s ten tracks are power-pop gems: they’re consistently catchy and musically uplifting, even as they navigate themes of loss and personal struggle. Despite a rough few years, Dahl keeps things upbeat, delivering a smooth, irresistibly ‘90s-inspired record. Out now on LP at Vestkyst Records and CD at Kool Kat Music.