Made up of members from Ukraine, Belarus, and Sweden, Oceans Red have been reaping success over the last two years, despite a near break-up at the end of 2013. Formed from the ashes of Make Me Famous, which saw vocalist Denis Stoff joining the ranks of Asking Alexandria, this band have amassed a legion of dedicated fans and toured with bands such as Parkway Drive. After all this, they’re finally releasing their debut album, ‘Anevidence’.
A self-released album, it starts as it means to go on. The intense instrumental ‘Anevidence’ kicks things off, before pummelling drum work and crashing riffs open ‘Falling’. Already, this album is off to a flying start – it’s exhilarating and exciting, as frontman Joel Holmqvist demonstrates his rock-solid vocals, fluctuating from his smooth, clean vocals to his coarse screams.
Tracks such as ‘Home’ really draw influence from Swedish rockers Dead By April. Electronic production, twisted with bold breakdowns and dynamic riffs, make this track roar into life. Then there’s ‘Daydreamer’ and single ‘Black Spot’, which both blend speed and raw aggression together to churn out blistering tracks that’ll grab you by the throat.
‘If Good Meant Forever’ comes packed with slick riffs, while ‘Eternal Hearts’ is full to the brim with vibrant vocal hooks and some steamy guitar licks. And then, on the other end of the spectrum, there’s an acoustic rendition of ‘Riot’ which displays the vocal range and talent of Joel – his softer and more dulcet vocals are incredible, and show just how talented a vocalist he really is.
‘Anevidence’ is a superb album and Oceans Red have shown that they’re not afraid to mix genres up; from metalcore to post-hardcore to electronic influences, they’ve shown that this mix of genres can be combined to create a resilient album with an electrifying rush. Be prepared to have this Eastern European storm crash into the UK music scene, and soon.
JESS TAGLIANI