There’s an assuredness and polish to The Ocean Party’s fourth LP that raises the bar from previous releases. Not to say past efforts particularly lacked anything in terms of songwriting or production, but this record has a new focus on texture and arrangements, which makes for an evocative listening experience.
This is no experimental jam either – the song structures are tight, every note is in its place, and most of these well-crafted songs barely scratch the three-minute mark. Despite the seeming simplicity, though, this album reveals deeper layers with repeated listens.
In terms of both lyrical ambition and its varied sonic palette, Soft Focus is reminiscent of prime-era Triffids. It’s no rehash homage, however – The Ocean Party have already carved a bit of a niche, but with the richness of this release, they could fairly claim a place among the best of spacious Australiana jangle like The Church and The Go-Betweens. There’s a lot to be said for ambition, and it seems The Ocean Party are thinking bigger than just being one of inner Melbourne’s favourite indie bands.
I’d recommend getting your hands on a copy of Soft Focus ahead of their upcoming Sydney show so you can enjoy your new favourite songs in still-intimate settings – the secret won’t last much longer.
4/5.
Soft Focusis out now throughSpunk.
