Its name may conjure thoughts of loincloths and primordial cave paintings, but Brooklyn-bred band Caveman creates complex songs that sound anything but primitive. The five-piece group is concerned with creating melodies that expand and morph to fill the space it occupies. An extension of its woozy first release, CoCo Beware, Caveman’s self-titled sophomore album begins with a wobble before unfolding into strums, harmonized hums, and ghostly whispers backed by synthpop noise. When performed live, Caveman’s synth-heavy melodies and vocal stylings seem unmistakably folk-rooted, but they also swell with a rumbling post-rock sensibility. Like the ancient paintings at Lascaux, these songs remain with you long after the lights dim.

Caveman performs with Pure Bathing Culture at 8 p.m. at the Black Cat Backstage, 1811 14th St. NW. $12–$14. (202) 667-4490. blackcatdc.com.