The Ocean - Solaris (2026)

Continuing their musical evolution, The Ocean returns with pretty much a completely new line-up and a revamped sound that is rooted in Post-Metal, but also adds new elements and textures into the mix. “Solaris” features eight tracks and nearly 70 minutes of high-octane music, filled with emotional and experimental outbursts that at times sound familiar and at others sound quite foreign, but equally engaging. For those that felt that the band’s sound was getting a bit tired with “Holocene”, this is the refresh that everybody was waiting for.

Creating an intriguing momentum with the opener “52°30'11"N, 13°26'12"E” and transitioning to “Departure Song”, we immediately get to listen to both new vocalists Enrico Tiberi, which sounds at times a bit like Loïc Rossetti, and Lane Shi, which provides extra dynamism to the music. Some of the electronic elements from “Holocene” also made their way here, as “Light Pollution” starts very lively and slowly progresses with haunting vocal melodies from alongside crafty signature The Ocean guitar riffs, and engaging drumming.

The album’s core lies within “Simulacra”, “Belligerence”, and “Ultima Esperanza”, a trio of songs that clock over 10-minutes each, weaving back and forth aggressive parts with harsh vocals, melodic passages, momentum building sections, and an expertly crafted interplay between the band’s new elements brought by the new member’s capabilities and styles. Ranging from your ‘typical’ Post-Metal, to progressive to more experimental styling, these tracks create a very immersive and engaging atmosphere that masterfully engages the listeners and keeps them hooked in.

Closing with the more electronic/experimental “Milk of My Dreams” and “51°28′30″S, 73°6′11″W”, Robin Staps and The Ocean have managed to create a very expansive and experimental release, full of familiar elements as well a catering to the strengths of the band’s new members. As a whole, “Solaris” is a masterful aural experience that has a bit of everything for everybody, new and old fans of this outfit.

Rating: 94/100