The end of The Ocean’s 2023 album 'Holocene' concludes with a bleak vision of a dystopian landscape on Earth, depleted and uninhabitable. The only option to ensure survival is a drastic course of action; one that signals a new era: the creation of new, artificial worlds with living conditions resembling those on Earth. Human intelligence forms the foundation of technological progress; yet it is precisely this progress that inevitably leads to self-destruction. As rational beings, we are fundamentally just as capable of initiating our own extinction as we are of preventing it. Since the release of 'Holocene', The Ocean itself has gone through radical changes, and the arrival of a new album in the shape of 'Solaris' signals the beginning of a new era for the band.
'Solaris' introduces new vocalists Lane Shi and Enrico Tiberi, as well as guitarists Emmanuel Jessua and Marco Gennaro, who join founding guitarist Robin Staps, longtime bassist Mattias Hägerstrand, and drummer Jordi Farré. Each contributes their own unique flair to bring to life the near-70 minute opus that marks a new high point for The Ocean in terms of ambition and narrative scope.
As the 'Holocene'-era lineup collapsed in the wake of heavy touring, shifting life priorities and band members moving away to other countries, Staps contemplated the future of the band he had dedicated almost 25 years of his life to. The way forward became clear through a series of chance encounters and existing connections: one by one, pieces of the new band formation fell into place, and when the old lineup played their last show at Hellfest 2025, he found himself already in the middle of working on a new album. Existing instrumental compositions gained a new impetus under the gaze of the fresh incarnation of The Ocean, and over the course of 2025, 'Solaris' began to take on a tangible shape and presence.
'Solaris' is the name of an intelligent ocean in Andrey Tarkovsky’s 1972 film of the same name, and combines the dystopian sci-fi storytelling with existential contemplation inspired by the journals and records of real-life explorers. By poring over the historic documents related to explorers such as Da Gama, Magellan, and Sir Francis Drake, 'Solaris' draws parallels between the cosmic explorations of Tarkovsky’s film, and the explorative nature of artists and current-day political leaders. It asks questions of those among us who are seekers; what is the psychological cost of being so driven? What do we leave behind in pursuit of answers? What is the tipping point between exploring new terrains and dominating them for our own gain?
'Solaris' is The Ocean’s 12th studio album – one that honours the progress of the band to date and imbues it with a fresh sense of intensity. Featuring members from six different countries in the core line up, The Ocean returns to its collective formation and is able to draw on the experiences and talents of a pool of extraordinary musicians. Whilst never seeking to replicate what has gone before, Enrico Tiberi’s vocals deliver a familiarity, energy and vocal range that is sure to resonate with long-time fans of The Ocean. Meanwhile, Lane Shi, who used to sing for the American band Elizabeth Colour Wheel, and also performs under the solo moniker Otay:Onii, adds a new direction to The Ocean sound and performance, comprising elements and experience as a musician and performance artist who has appeared at events such as CTM and Biennale, or as part of Florentina Holzinger’s polarizing opera production 'Sancta'.
The level of attention to detail extends beyond the musical component of 'Solaris'. The Ocean have enlisted the talents of filmmaker Craig Murray to bring the album’s narrative elements to life in a visceral and captivating way. The 'Solaris' album artwork is a collaborative effort by German artist Phillip Janta, and Norwegian designer Martin Kvamme. Janta is best known for his work with Metallica, Queens Of the Stone Age, Envy and Emma Ruth Rundle; his distinctive, highly detailed line work is instantly recognisable. Kvamme has worked with The Ocean on all albums since 2007’s 'Precambrian', and has worked on many Mike Patton projects over the years.
'Solaris' is a place where fiction and reality meet; an open invitation to join The Ocean on this next leg of their voyage, through the cosmos and into the unknown.
CD Digisleeve with a foldout booklet
Tracklisting:
1. 52°30'11" N, 13°26’12“ E
2. Departure Song
3. Light Pollution
4. Simulacra
5. Belligerence
6. Ultima Esperanza
7. Milk Of My Dreams
8. 51°28'30" S, 73°6'11" W
