With an appearance on the main stage at Reading/Leeds this Summer coming, WE ARE THE OCEAN‘s latest effort ‘Go Now And Live’ may be the most crucial album of their career. They’re at a real turning point and should they capitalise on the year ahead, the world will surely be at their feet.
‘Go Now And Live’ follows on from where they left off on their last effort, but features less of Dan Brown’s screaming vocal trade offs with vocalist/guitarist Liam Cromby than previously. This doesn’t detract from the impact of the record however, as it’s loud, brash and insistent on your attention. If anything it’s done them a favour – Dan’s still in the mix and gruff as hell, it’s just that the band have got the hang of best utilising the dual vocals without resorting to force-feeding the listener a misplaced scream.
It’s fair enough to say that We Are The Ocean had a lot to live up to on this record, but they’ve met those expectations with ten mature and accomplished tracks. ‘Follow What You Need’, ‘The Waiting Room’ and ‘Trials And Tribulations’ are particular stand-outs and the album as a whole is strong and varied enough to convert a few detractors. It’s certainly a bit of a change for the band but they haven’t compromised on the things that their existing fans already loved. ‘Go Now And Live’ is well worth picking up if the band tickle your fancy even in the slightest.
TOM AYLOTT