At just 16 years old, Tom Clegg, better known as Caesar Of Cymatics, delivers a profoundly mature and introspective debut EP. Departing from his previous pop-influenced tracks, this EP delves into darker themes, drawing inspiration from folk legends like Nick Drake, Elliott Smith, and Jeff Buckley. 

The EP opens with the minimalist folk track “Sons Of The Skyclock Sky,” a hauntingly beautiful song that sets the tone for the introspective journey ahead. Caesar‘s delicate guitar work and poignant lyrics evoke a sense of quiet contemplation, reminiscent of his influences. This track seamlessly transitions into the anthemic “Where Have You Gone?,” which showcases Caesar‘s ability to craft songs with an intimate and personal feel.

Central to the EP are themes of love and loss, poignantly reflected in the cover art which is a tribute to his Grandmother and Great Grandmother, and a nod to the recent losses of his Grandfather and beloved pet cat, Tiger. 

Since releasing his first single, “It’s Plain Knowing,” at the age of 15, Caesar has built a passionate and loyal following. His connection with the local Manchester music scene, bolstered by collaborations with promoters like ‘Scruff Of The Neck,’ has resulted in highly attended gigs at venues like Manchester Academy 3 and The Deaf Institute. His first headline gig in February 2024 at The Retro was a sellout, and his subsequent performances have continued to draw impressive crowds across the UK.

Reflecting on his EP, Caesar emphasises his desire to create something interesting and unique in a music landscape he views as saturated with copycats. His dedication to his craft and his willingness to explore different musical flavors is evident throughout the EP. As he states, “It takes me a while to become proud of what I make, but I really feel as though I’ve landed on something special here.”

Looking ahead, Caesar has an exciting year planned with upcoming performances at Manchester Academy 3 and Venture Fest, along with the release of several new singles. 

Caesar Of Cymatics’ debut EP is a remarkable achievement for such a young artist. It is a deeply personal and emotionally rich collection of songs that showcase Caesar’s evolution as a songwriter. This EP is a promising start to what is sure to be a bright future for this talented young musician.

Review by Izzy Martin