Oceana – Clean Head EP
Record Label: Rise Records
Release Date: May 11, 2010
Oceana have been through a lot in just two years. After releasing their 2008 metalcore debut record, The Tide, the band parted ways with vocalist Keith Jones. After Jones’ leave, Brennan Taulbee took over vocals for Oceana, making his debut on the band’s more progressive than heavy sophomore album, Birth.Eater. Shortly after this release, Oceana announced they had broken up. At this point, the future of Oceana appeared nonexistent. That is, until the band reformed in late 2009 with new bass player Kolby Crider. The next step: 2010’s Clean Head EP.
Continuing to progress with each release – despite all issues in between releases – Oceana have continued with their Birth.Eater sound on Clean Head. Pushing their sound to the max, the band has crafted their best work to date with this new lineup and vision. Opener “Blue” begins the EP with guitarists Adam Schultz and Jack Burns setting the heavy tone over Taulbee's pristine vocals. The beautiful “Barracuda Capital of the World” follows with soft drums and guitars over Taulbee’s pristine vocals. The track, as well as the album, channels late As Cities Burn. As Taulbee sings “welcome in a clean head,” it’s apparent that this is the new Oceana.
“Wool God" is religious while the ultimate "Joy” will surely please fans of As Cities Burn’s vocalist Cody Bonnette. Lyrically, “Joy” demonstrates their Christian themes throughout as Taulbee explains “I’m glad I know You”. From the pristine vocals to the excellent guitar work and drums, “Joy” is inevitably the highlight of Clean Head, even surpassing the intricate “Wool God.”
Oceana have been able to start anew with Clean Head; they’ve truly found their sound with their strongest work to date. Not many bands have gone through so much in such a short career; however, not many bands could overcome such obstacles and continue to progress in ways as Oceana have done. With continuous progression, this EP proves that Oceana have their best work in their hands for the future.
huh? they continued with their birth.eater sound? no. this is a pretty dramatic departure from everything theyve done before. and the guitar player's name is alex schultz, not adam. also they are not a christian band and have openly stated that. im fairly certain brennan is not a christian and his lyrics are not based in christianity at all.
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