Ocean Age is three boys and two girls who all live in the same neighborhood and make some pretty rad music together.
Their official debut EP release, Forests, was exposed to the public this week during a show at Backspace. The first track on the EP, "Dalvik Tide," can be streamed from the Willamette Week blog or their MySpace page (which has most of the tracks found on Forests).
The band crafts songs with steady rhythms that are both very organic and tribal; they throb, build and fall like the ocean, waves or other forces of nature. Obvious influences such as Animal Collective can be spotted quickly by the listener, as well as more subtle nuances. The vocal melodies remind me of Fleet Foxes at times, while they also have brilliantly picked up on modern trends found in the dreamy production by the likes of Taken by Trees and perhaps even Beach House.
The vocal tracks soar up and down above the groundwork provided by the percussion and other instruments, mainly bass, guitar and keys. After listening to Forest, I am completely excited to see these young musicians (the oldest being 23) exhibit their craft in person. The band’s next scheduled performance is at the Hawthorne Burgerville at 7 p.m., apparently, and is totally free.
Take a listen and then vote for a truly worthy contender for Band of the Month. It’s a fun ride. I fully recommend it.
– Joel Sommer