Oceans & Omens’ latest release, EP ll: Aether, maintains the band’s pursuit of dark and eery themes, blending intricate storytelling with intense musicality. Offering a profoundly atmospheric and strong sound that should appeal to both metalcore and progressive metal fans, the EP is a concept album tracking “The Survivor’s” path over a barren, unearthly terrain.
The dynamic, multi-layered song forms of the EP flow naturally between wide, melodic parts and shattering collapses. This strategy brings Aether into line with bands like Architects and Northlane, who are renowned for combining emotional depth with technical sophistication. Songs like “Desolation” show this; their abrupt mood changes keep the listener interested and emphasize the band’s musical ability.
For its variety and accuracy, the instrumental work on this EP is exceptional. Using a spectrum of styles from blasting solos to more textural playing that accentuates the EP’s atmospheric elements, Rowan Leah’s lead guitar work is both sophisticated and sentimental. Led by bassist Nathan Menage and drummer Kieran Wallace, the tight rhythm section offers a strong basis for the intricate arrangements. While maintaining a raw edge, the polished production quality lets every instrument stand out and adds to the total immersive sound.
On Aether, Sean O’Brien’s vocals stand out as particularly good. His range is remarkable; he can move fluidly between strong growls and pure, soaring melodies. Particularly on songs like “Echo In Eternity,” where guest vocalist Lindsay Rose joins him, this duality in his vocal performance accentuates the emotional impact of the EP. Their interaction gives the album’s normally unwavering intensity an emotional contrast.
EP ll: Aether has elements of progressive metal and post-metal yet is firmly anchored in the metalcore scene. Inspired by several sources, the band combines the ethereal inclinations of Devin Townsend with the aggression of early August Burns Red. The outcome is a sound that pushes the envelope of what modern metalcore can produce—that which is both familiar and innovative.
The EP explores despair, inner struggle, and melancholy lyrically. Every song expands on the story of “The Survivor,” using lyrical and usually depressing images to balance the intensity of the music. For example, “Final Breath” addresses themes of tenacity and confronting one’s inner demons, which line up with the general idea of negotiating a harsh, foreign environment.
EP ll: Aether is a major release for Oceans & Omens that highlights their development as a band in terms of technical abilities and songwriting. Fans of heavy music that value depth, story, and atmosphere in their metal will find great appeal in the EP’s coherent work. Aether is a deserving addition to the playlist and a good sign of what Oceans & Omens can produce going with its complex patterns, great vocals, and excellent production quality.
