The StillsOceans Will RiseReview

New album, new label, renewed energy. Following the success of their 2004 debut LP Logic Will Break Your Heart, The Stills recently signed an international deal with Arts & Crafts and Oceans Will Rise heralds a welcomed return to their crisp and catchy original sound.

While album number two Without Feathers was criticised by many as being a wishy washy sophomore with few standouts, Oceans Will Rise is far from bland. A high octane vibe runs through the record’s veins, even though the boys have surprisingly teamed up with super producer Gus van Go once more.

Opener Don’t Talk Down is a blatant highlight, with its hooky chorus, gorgeous melodies and hearty bass. No wonder the band chose this sing-a-long catch to real in the crowd, opening for Sir Paul McCartney on their home turf of Canada’s Quebec City. Next up is Snow In California, another obvious hit yet with contrasting down-tempo keys, floating riffs and whimsical vocals.

Of course a few fillers feature (the uneventful Being Here and the insipid Panic) but otherwise Oceans Will Rise is an extremely well rounded effort, with a wide variety of rock-infused escapades. While comparisons to the eco and radio-friendliness of U2 are alarmingly obvious, the Canadian quartet have still successfully managed to put their own youthful stamp on the rock-pop genre.