Ocean Grove – Up In The Air Forever CD (UNFD)

It’s been a while since we had a band like this on our pages. Ocean Grove came a long way in their over a decade-long career. They started as a post-hardcore group but gradually evolved into something many listeners would call a nu metal sound. However, many things lurk around in their songs, and it’s nearly impossible to classify their music into a singular music genre. It’s been a couple of months since Ocean Grove released Up In The Air Forever, their third full-length release. This particular one serves as a perfect example of how these guys continuously levitate between several complementary genres in order to illustrate profoundly complex sonic imagery. After all, singles like Cali Sun, Silver Lining, Sex Dope Gold, and Bored are more than good proofs of how Ocean Grove jumps from one style to another in a matter of seconds without spoiling the primary sonic direction.

Up In The Air Forever contains ten compositions that unquestionably differ in style, energy, dynamics, and ambiance. As I mentioned above, many listeners and loyal fans of the band will classify this material as a contemporary nu metal album, and they wouldn’t be far from the truth. However, Orange Grove is undoubtedly more than just another simplistic nu metal band that takes the properties of this longevous genre and shapes it to its likeness. Perhaps there are fundamentals of this particular genre lurking around in each composition, but you’ll notice some of the finest qualities of post-hardcore, alternative metal, alternative rock, indie, grunge, pop-punk, and hip-hop. As someone who was present when nu metal rose to fame, I can hear similarities with many renowned bands. However, Ocean Grove cleverly avoid any direct similarities with those bands. Their compositions will sound familiar to you and maybe evoke some nostalgia, but then again, Up In The Air Forever dominantly leans towards contemporary nu metal music.

One of the first things I noticed about this album is how the sound engineer/producer did an incredible job binding all the instruments in a colossal slab of harmonious noise. It’s nearly mindblowing how these instruments resonate together in the mix. Each musician plays a significant role in this epic sonic equation. There’s no doubt in my mind you’ll solely enjoy the sheer amount of powerful, heavy, energetic, soothing guitar riffs, warm-sounding basslines, and profoundly dynamic rhythmic acrobatics. This record will be right up your alley if you’re looking for contemporary nu metal or grunge revival music. Head to UNFD for more information about ordering this album on CD or vinyl.