ALBUM REVIEW: Phanerozoic II: Mesozoic | Cenozoic – The Ocean

When questions are raised about the most iconic progressive metal bands of all time there are few who have blazed a trail quite like THE OCEAN. Refusing to follow any sort of blueprint or wander in anyone else’s shadow the German outfit have created some of the most ingenuitive albums you could ever hope to come across and the next iteration, following their well established geological themed endeavours is the second chapter of the Phanerozoic eon entitled Phanerozoic II: Mesozoic | Cenozoic which is available now via Metal Blade Records. How will this piece of the puzzle fit into their great tapestry?

Triassic kicks off this release with relaxing, subtle tones that gradually progress into a tense, atmospheric vibe. Inviting, chunky’s bass lines lure you in before the welcoming warmth of Loïc Rossetti‘s vocal presence slides into the track. A distinct heaviness washes over with powerful growls and sharp, dramatic guitar work making a significant impact. Jurassic | Cretaceous opens with jarring riffs and vigorous drum beats. The addition of brass instrumentation provides a particularly grand and opulent accompaniment.

THE OCEAN have developed and mastered the ability to keep you guessing with each passing moment, effortlessly transitioning between the serene and the sonically devastating and this track is a perfect example of this. Whether it is the engrossing synth work or the sharp surges in vibrancy 13 minutes pass within what feels like moments as you are so gripped to every little unravelling nuance. Paleocene is a stark contrast to its predecessor, diving headfirst into intense bursts of vocal fury and evil guitar tones, barely relenting or offering you an opportunity to catch your breath. Instead this comes in the form of Eocene which adopts a more delicate, calming approach, providing a moment of escapism.

Oligocene witnesses a reprisal of the tense, nature as pronounced synth elements form the basis of this instrumental piece, segueing into the ominous introduction of Miocene | Pliocene. Whilst feeling rather tentative in pacing the aggressive vocal presence keeps you on edge, expecting it to rapidly shift gears. What in fact surfaces is beautifully melodic, giving you an instant rush of euphoria. Pleistocene offers up an almost theatrical structure with its dramatic prose and delivery. Rossetti seamlessly shifts between captivating vocal narratives and impassioned screams to heighten the intensity. We’ve come to expect the unexpected from THE OCEAN and the sudden leap deep into black metal territory is precisely why. After leaving you reeling with what just unfolded Holocene returns to the more acclimated progressive stylings, providing some decadent violin sections and reprising the lyrical content established in Triassic. A befitting conclusion to an incredibly engaging composition.

Not like it was ever in any doubt but THE OCEAN have delivered the goods once again, exceeding all expectations and continuing to show that like a fine wine they just get better with age. Phanerozoic II: Mesozoic | Cenozoic transports you through a variety of moods and sensations that keeps you fixated throughout the duration of its runtime and will have you returning to bask in its rich, inviting textures. 2020 has already blessed us with so many amazing releases but this may arguably be one of the most remarkable offerings yet.

Rating: 9/10

Phanerozoic II: Mesozoic | Cenozoic is out now via Metal Blade Records/Pelagic Records.

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