We Are The Ocean – ‘Maybe Today, Maybe Tomorrow’ Review
Words: Jessica Goodman
When a band part ways with one of their members, it can often to lead to disaster. Once-vocalist Dan Brown announced he was leaving We Are The Ocean in June of this year, leaving what was in store for the band shrouded in doubt. But with the release of their new album, ‘Maybe Today, Maybe Tomorrow’ the now-four-piece group join the ranks of those who not only make it through the pressures of an uncertain future, but triumph with an astounding amount of ease.
The album is a step forwards for We Are The Ocean. Liam Cromby’s vocals range from delicate to snarling, and everything in between. Guitar refrains differ from clear and light to distorted and heavy. This is a band throwing everything they have into a record, and the product of their efforts proves worth of all their hard work.
The aptly named “Stanford Rivers” opens the album. The simple combination of smooth vocals and a soft piano melody flow effortlessly together. Beautiful, yes, but the listeners focus is instantly drawn to a building crescendo, steering up to the albums lead single, “Bleed”. The tracks stomping beats and incredibly catchy chorus have given it endorsement from the likes of Zane Lowe. And from there the album continues to flow. “Young Heart” is an emotive yearning for approval set to jangly guitars and crisp percussion. “Story Of A Modern Child” showcases the albums rockier side, whilst featuring another anthemic sing-a-long chorus.
“Machine” is arguably the strongest track on the album. This drum-driven number sounds better the louder you blast it. There’s a perfectly imperfect vocal performance – the sound of a performer giving his all. It culminates in a sway-from-side-to-side and sing-your-heart-out chorus, and will no doubt become a favourite of fans both on record and at shows.
“The Road” sounds like something that could have emerged out of the darker side of the nineties; its discordant guitars and double tracked vocals making it stand out from the crowd. “Golden Gate” is the albums longest track – clocking in at 5:45 – and features a steady beat, soaring vocals and guitars that riff against each other. “Maybe Today, Maybe Tomorrow” boasts home to the album title, and is typical of the lighter rock sound the band are now calling their own. “Pass Me By” has a get up and dance vibe that’s almost impossible to ignore, and echoes the choral ending of “Machine”, with added brass.
“Chin Up, Son” is the albums final track. Returning to the simple vocal and one instrument set up of the opening song, this acoustic closer gives the record a sense of completeness. The vocals sound raw and full of feeling, which is what I suppose sums up what this album is.
“Maybe Today, Maybe Tomorrow” is the sound of a band that has matured. It’s an album that will without doubt result in diverse range of opinions between fans. It’s more radio-friendly than anything the band has released before, but that is in no way a bad thing. We Are The Ocean have made it through one of the most challenging trials a band can face, and with this record, they’re coming up smiling.
Overall Rating: 8/10
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Website: http://www.wearetheocean.co.uk/
