The Ocean to release album ‘Solaris’ with new single ‘Light Pollution’ and video
s based on late Soviet filmmaker Andrei Tarkovsky‘s masterpiece of the same name.
The first single from this upcoming album is titled “Light Pollution.” The song opens with familiar synth textures reminiscent of their previous album, Holocene, before gradually transitioning into a new musical direction. The track builds up to a powerful and grand finale filled with orchestral elements, heavy tones, and intricate rhythms.
The lyrics of “Light Pollution” question the meaning behind orbital motion and patterns of particles. Vocalist Enrico Tiberi reflects on the concept of orbital motion, highlighting its significance in both celestial bodies and water particles’ movement. Drawing inspiration from early scenes in the film Solaris, the song delves into the circular or elliptical paths water particles take as waves pass through, signifying energy transfer without forward movement.
Exploring themes of 21st-century technology and society’s obsession with simulated reality, “Light Pollution” critiques the idea of progress in modern times. Robin Staps, the band’s guitarist and lyricist, poses thought-provoking questions about communication revolutions and whether they have truly improved human interaction. The lyrics also touch on the loss of privacy in an era dominated by constant visibility and communication.
The music video for “Light Pollution” was crafted by filmmaker Craig Murray, known for his work with bands like MOGWAI and CONVERGE. The visual narrative intertwines the arrival of new vocalists Lane Shi and Enrico Tiberi with the song’s powerful lyrics. Murray’s attention to detail and artistic vision elevate the video to a cinematic standard, matching the intensity and depth of the song.
With their upcoming album Solaris, THE OCEAN introduces a new chapter in their 25-year history. Emmanuel Jessua and Marco Gennaro join the band on guitar, while vocalists Enrico Tiberi and Lane Shi take on vocal duties. The record also features contributions from Thorsten Quaeschning of TANGERINE DREAM on modular synthesizers, with mixing and mastering handled by Jens Bogren, known for his work on the band’s previous albums.
Solaris promises to be THE OCEAN’s boldest album to date, both musically and conceptually. It offers profound reflections on the world we live in, presenting a blend of innovative soundscapes and insightful commentary. As the band resurfaces with renewed energy and creativity, Solaris stands as a testament to their artistic evolution.
The tracklist for Solaris includes songs like “52°30’11” N, 13°26’12“ E,” “Departure Song,” “Simulacra,” and “Ultima Esperanza,” among others. With Robin Staps on guitar and vocals, alongside a talented lineup of musicians, THE OCEAN is set to deliver a groundbreaking album that pushes the boundaries of their musical identity.