FLUXION

"Fluxion" is the debut full-length studio album by German sludge/post metal/hardcore act The Ocean (sometimes referred to as The Ocean Collective). The album was released through Make My Day Records/Throne Records in November 2004 (Pelagic Records released a remixed and remastered version of the album in 2009, which also featured re-recorded vocal tracks with another vocalist). The Ocean recorded a lot of material during the sessions for "Fluxion" and ended up with enough tracks to fill two full-length studio albums. "Fluxion" features the most experimental/progressive and melodic tracks from the recording sessions while a second album titled "Aeolian" (released through Metal Blade Records in November 2005) features the most raw and brutal sludge/hardcore tracks from the same sessions.

Stylistically the music on "Fluxion" is sludge/post metal/hardcore but featuring adventurous ideas and progressive elements. There are lots of classical influences on the album and there are both violin, cello, and clarinet featured on the material. The music is very heavy with sharp distorted guitar riffing, pounding drums, and an angry sounding and raw shouting frontman. There are only very few clean vocals on the album but when they appear on "Isla Del Sol" it´s a positive surprise which is great for the diversity on the album. Other standout tracks would be the symphonic opener "Nazca" and the closing 14:33 minutes long "The Greatest Bane". "The Greatest Bane" touches post metal territory with it´s slow- to mid paced tempo and slow building structure. There are also some really agressive hardcore tracks featured on the album like "Comfort Zones" and "Dead On The Whole" while "Fluxion" and "Loopholes" show a more atmospheric and subtle side of The Ocean. The tracklist has a conceptual feel to it, and "Fluxion" is the kind of album, which deserves to be listened to as a whole in one listening session. That´s the best way to discover and feel the effect of the dynamics of the loud heavy parts and softer more atmospheric moments.

The album is well produced, featuring a powerful, atmospheric, and detailed production (the drums could have prospered from a more organic tone though), which goes well with the often layered and complex music. The musicianship is on a high level throughout and upon conclusion "Fluxion" is a very strong and promising debut album by The Ocean. A 4 star (80%) rating is deserved.