Myopic is a concept EP. It deals with what is commonly known as “The Sixth Mass Extinction”.
Human population has grown rapidly since the Neolithic age, a time where we learned to grow our own food and move away from a nomadic lifestyle. With an abundance of food the population grew – and it hasn’t stopped. We’re responsible for many of the causes of this mass extinction, but do we have the foresight to change it to save ourselves and countless ecosystems?
As a reviewer and a fan of heavy music, I’m of the firm belief that passion is the secret ingredient to writing a wicked song. That and humility, with perhaps a dash of intelligence to flavour things up a little bit. Few bands in the mainstream seem to emulate that passion and humility, instead opting for auto tune and the assistance of many songwriters and producers to help craft their album.
Thankfully, every now and then, I receive a submission from a band that has all the right ingredients. They’re heavy, They’re melodic. They’re world-wise and intelligent. They are called “Defy The Ocean.”
This powerhouse UK duo, (made up of multi-instrumentalists Chris Theo and Marcos Economides), have written a great EP that is stuffed to the brim with catchy hooks, aggressive guitar crunches, smooth and sometimes mathematical drum work, eerie soundscapes, smoky, laid back vocals and so much more; all crammed into one 4 song EP, which is entitled “Myopic.”
Not only is this ear candy, it is also music with a message. Defy The Ocean’s subject matter is rooted in themes of species biodiversity; or more specifically, humanity’s role as it’s catalyst. It’s great to see that there are bands out there who are trying to make some sort of difference in the world with their message. Even better; all of the “Myopic” album sales are being donated to Sea Shephard; a conservation society that deals with marine wildlife.
Musically, this EP barely suffers from a single misstep. Songs like “Neolithic” erupt with an angst that reminds me of bands like Norma Jean or Botch. The dirty octave work and creepy staccato plunking of guitars, as well as subtle drops of piano and a cool, stylish drumline that may remind music fans of drummers like Abe Cunningham (Deftones) or Josh Freese (Perfect Cirle, Vandals). “The Hunter” opens up with a dizzying yet catchy 5/8 progression from Marcos and a slighly off key guitar arpeggio that brought to mind guitarists like Kim Thayil from Soundgarden or Tom Maxwell of Nothingface. The track consists of an explosive punk metal line near the end of the song that should have you smacking your head against a wall. It’s manic, full of energy and juxtaposes itself to the remainder of the track.
Juxtaposition is Defy The Ocean’s greatest strength. However, in spots it could also be their weakness as well; depending on the listener. Some of the transitions from part to part may be a little deceiving at times. Just when you think an explosive metal part is coming up, DTO will jump into something quiet or abstract. When you expect something clean, they will surely give your brain a shake with some aggressive hard rock. Expectations should be thrown out the window, and one should crank this EP with a very open mind, because Chris and Marcos are anything but predictable.
Most notable on this record, to me, is the guitar work. I’d like to see you try and point out a single riff that sounds cliche to you. Chris Theo draws out some very clever guitar lines, with a plethora of great effects and numerous unusual scales. DTO does an exemplary job of capturing that “eerie” feel in the darker side of their music.
Lyrically, this album is top notch. Chris is clear and articulate with his words. Of course, you may have to prick your ears a bit at times when he’s lamenting over a heavy guitar line. There is alot of earth shaking poetry in here that should make you think. And perhaps you’ll find yourself wishing to make a difference in the world, too.
Defy The Ocean sets a great example for other artists and even people in general. They’re not about money-grubbing. They’re about serving a greater good without fear of what happens to their wallets. That alone solidifies their level of integrity and wisdom.
Great album. Great message. Great musicianship. Hands down, “Myopic” is one of my favorite albums of the year.
