What makes Final Transmission by Cave In notable?

This album received critical acclaim upon release, with many praising its introspective nature and sonic depth, which led to a resurgence in interest in Cave In's discography. It also marked a notable departure from their earlier heavier styles towards a more atmospheric and emotionally charged approach, influencing both fans and contemporary artists in the alternative rock scene. Final Transmission is Cave In's fifth studio album, released after a five-year hiatus following the band's previous record, White Silence. This album emerged during a transitional period, showcasing their evolution as they grappled with the loss of bassist Caleb Scofield, whose passing deeply influenced the material and thematic direction.

Who is Final Transmission for?

Final Transmission works well if you're into haunting introspection through loss, short bursts of emotional impact and reflective moments during solitude.

How many songs are on Final Transmission?

Final Transmission has 9 tracks, running approximately 31 minutes.

Final Transmission

Cave In · 2019

31 min · 9 tracks · alternative rock

A haunting blend of progressive rock and spacey atmospheres, where emotional weight meets experimental soundscapes.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Final Transmission — The opening track sets the tone for the entire album with its ethereal soundscapes and poignant themes of loss and reflection, encapsulating the emotional core of the project.
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All Illusion — With its dynamic shifts and haunting melodies, this track exemplifies the band's ability to blend heavy instrumentation with delicate moments, highlighting their progressive rock roots while exploring new sonic territories.
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Shake My Blood — This song showcases a mix of aggression and vulnerability, offering listeners an intense experience that contrasts with the album’s more ambient tracks, demonstrating the band's range.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

64 /100

Treeline

Higher than 79% of albums we've rated

The album blends atmospheric soundscapes with strong melodies, creating a distinctive yet cohesive listening experience.

What we noticed

The album opens with a title track that features layered guitars and atmospheric synths, setting a moody tone for the record.
Several tracks incorporate extended instrumental sections that build tension before resolving into more melodic passages.
The final track features a gradual fade-out, leaving listeners with an unresolved feeling that echoes the themes of introspection.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 8/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 8/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 7/10

Influence 4/10

Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

haunting introspection through loss
short bursts of emotional impact
reflective moments during solitude
ethereal melodies for deep thinking

Maybe skip if you

prefer extended energetic tracks
seek instant gratification

Where this album fits

Career context: Final Transmission is Cave In's fifth studio album, released after a five-year hiatus following the band's previous record, White Silence. This album emerged during a transitional period, showcasing their evolution as they grappled with the loss of bassist Caleb Scofield, whose passing deeply influenced the material and thematic direction.
Stylistic neighbors: Isis· Pelican· Mastodon