Metal/Review Oceans & Omens - II: Aether

Washing up on the shores of Perth, Western Australia, and Mission Beach, Queensland, Oceans & Omens blend the rawness of quintessential old-school metalcore with melodic guitar hooks, groove-driven riffs, catchy choruses, and neck-snapping breakdowns. All interwoven into an epic narrative of gods, demons, the end of days, and the horrors that lurk beneath the waves. Comprised of Rowan Leah (lead guitar), Aaron Ganley (rhythm guitar), Nathan Menage (bass), and Kieran Wallace (drums), the five-piece is rounded out by veritable giant Sean O’Brien bringing his highly dynamic vocal range to the intricate, rhythmic instrumentation.

Oceans & Omens' metalcore rock opera "II: Aether" transports listeners to a harsh, alien place. This album, the second in the band's epic narrative, tells the tale of The Survivor, a troubled person caught in a desolate state between life and death. The album vividly depicts a barren environment, one filled with yawning chasms, fractured ground, and unsettling weather systems, all of which are lit by the harsh, icy light of an alien sun.

"II: Aether" has a persistent musical style, much like the environment it depicts. The band creates a sound that is both strong and eerie by skillfully fusing the explosive energy of metalcore with the rich storytelling depth of a rock opera. The vocals soar with unadulterated passion, the drums booming, the guitars crushing, and the vocals reflecting the hopelessness and tenacity of The Survivor as he makes his way across the perilous landscape of his new world.

The storyline of the record, which follows the protagonist as he searches for purpose in life while being denied the serenity of the hereafter, is just as captivating. Oceans & Omens have written a novel that speaks to readers on a number of levels, delving into themes of hopelessness, loneliness, and the quest for atonement in the face of tragedy.

"II: Aether" is a visceral experience that will appeal to lovers of both metalcore and concept albums due to its excellent combination of storyline and musicianship. Long after the last note has gone, Oceans & Omens have produced an emotionally powerful and engaging trip.