:: Ocean Colour Scene - A Hyperactive Workout for the Flying Squad

Ocean Colour Scene

You never know when this band decides to rear its head and produce a new album. The last couple of albums weren’t that great in the context of their usual fine efforts over a long career that spans back to the late 1980s. However, fans of Ocean Colour Scene can be very pleased with the outcome of this new album. It will take a couple of good listens to absorb the textures because this album will grow after a while. There are a couple of cover songs included, including George Harrison’s “Wha Wha”, but the Ocean Colour Scene originals will invite interest. Opening track “Everything Comes At The Right Time” is a typical track – a fast-paced anthem with big guitars and a worthy chorus. Probably the pick of the overall bunch is “Waving Not Drowning” that features guests Paul Weller on harmony/guitar and Jools Holland on piano. It is a good example of how this band can craft beautifully uplifting songs. But there are plenty of worthwhile moments. They have been consistently good, yet very under-rated. Guitarist Steve Cradock remains a fine guitarist and inventive arranger too and the band’s honesty as performers spring from his meticulous process. This is another accomplished effort and the band ignores passing fads to produce a genuine record of substance.