One of the bands who is strongly influenced by the 90s British rock (Radiohead and Oasis in particular) is most The Boxer Rebellion. What’s interesting is that they are characterized as international band as the members are not only from the Island, but from all over the world.
Although this is not a typical indie band because of their strong stem in alternative rock, they are known as an indie group. In 2005, they dropped their critically acclaimed debut album, while the band’s sophomore effort Union is their best record so far. It’s where Radiohead’s influence is the most obvious. It’s like you are listening to The Bends mixed with the modern sound we all know as indie.
Their fresh album is titled Ocean by Ocean and it is the fifth full-length release in the band’s discography. Their style is straightforward. It is an alternative rock with the pure sound. Nathan Nicholson’s vocal is in the spotlight (spotsound?) and he also writes lyrics. The guy has a wide range so he can rock both ballades and hardcore stuff. What I love about his voice is that it brings me piece. It definitely stands out from the classic indie vocals.
Guitars are not always in the main focus. It is more about the arrangement. Instruments conflate in a manner that makes sonic equilibrium. The band’s favorite themes are questions of existence, communication, love, loneliness, suffering, happiness and comfort. It is not a rife spectrum of topics, and The Boxer Rebellion rarely experiment with the narrative. They like to stick to what works for them.
Ocean by Ocean represents a new direction. As you can imagine, it is oriented towards electronic music. They did a solid job of making piece between their old sound and the new one, but I was still left feeling nostalgic for their recognizable alternative rock.
The biggest hit is Big Ideas and it really is a din pearl. The lyrics is simple and sincere. The opening track Weapon is supported by Nicholson’s falsetto, while Keep Me Close captivated me with its good vibes. Let’s Disappear is a total post-punk number.
Bands are changing, experimenting and evolving. They are questing for their spot on the music scene. The Boxer Rebellion are probably going to experience a commercial success with this effort.
