In between the power cuts in Varanasi, I was lucky enough to be able to check my inbox this morning. Vishnu and Shiva were definitely on my team today. The Ocean Party are one of my most treasured bands at the moment, after a string of excellent single releases, the boys from Wagga Wagga have released the full squid. Their debut album, The Sun Rolled Off The Hills is a brilliant, rolling, laid back affair. There is a defiant Paul Kelly Vs. The Shins feel to this release, with strong guitar laden melodies. The entire album was recorded at home by the band, mixed by Jack Farley (St Helens, Twerps, Beaches) and mastered by Casey Rice (Witch Hats, Aleks and the Ramps, Orbweavers).
Listening to ’The Farm’ and ‘Deadbeat’ it’s near impossible to not be engrossed by imagery that would be suitible to the titles of the respective tracks. In addition, there is nothing that is too overriding in their release, which makes it clear that they are comfortable with their sound, restraining from the integration of any cutting aspects to the album which would invariably compete with the crafting and songwriting. Overall, it’s a definitive and brilliant debut. Have a listen to some of the tracks below. To purchase the album, check out The Ocean Party‘s Facebook, grab it from their Bandcamp below, or pick it up at one of their shows.
To mark the release of the Ocean Party’s debut LP, the band will embark on a tour taking in Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide and their home town Wagga Wagga. The poster for their tour is below.
