Oceans on Other Planets introduce their debut EP Transmission, bringing together a collection of previously released singles alongside a couple of new additions. Sitting somewhere between alternative rock, pop-rock and electronic rock, it’s a release that draws on a few different influences and isn’t particularly interested in sticking to one lane.
There’s a definite pop sensibility running throughout, with big choruses and plenty of melody, but there’s also a futuristic, synth-heavy feel to the instrumentation. The guitars have an almost electronic quality to them in places, giving the EP a polished, slightly otherworldly sound.
Some of the tracks lean quite heavily into that pop-rock territory, and there were moments where I found myself hearing shades of The Weeknd, particularly in the overall feel and vocal delivery. The comparisons to Starset also make sense. There’s a similar blend of atmospheric electronics, rock instrumentation and those big, expansive choruses.
‘Make It Out Alive’, featuring Jay Gordon of Orgy, is an interesting addition to the EP, bringing another recognisable voice and a slightly different dynamic to the collection.
Overall, Transmission is a decent listen. It’s accessible, melodic and has a clear identity, even if it doesn’t always push the boundaries of the genres it’s drawing from.
There’s enough variety across the five tracks to keep things interesting, and the combination of pop sensibilities with futuristic rock elements gives Oceans on Other Planets a sound that should appeal to fans of the more electronic and melodic side of alternative rock.
It’s not necessarily a release that’s going to completely blow you away, but there’s certainly something here for fans of the genre and it’s an interesting introduction to the band.
Overall, I would class this as an easy listening and non-offensive EP, and I look forward to seeing what Oceans on Other Planets come out with next!
