Better late than never!
JCM and I headed out to see Electric Ocean at Paparay's Sportsbar last month, a band who have actually been around for some time (winners of the 12/30/04 battle of the bands in San Antonio).
I didn't have any expectations at all, other than knowing that the band have 5 members who are all very diverse in their playing and influences.
Ben, the band's lead singer and rhythm guitarist, quotes some of these as being his faves:
Judas Priest, Queensryche, Foo Fighters, Marillion, The Church, 80's, Velvet Revolver, Saxxon, Lynch Mob...anything with Randy Rhoads or George Lynch influences, Anthrax, Metal Church and many others.
I also have to admit I LOVE a killer light show, and was looking forward to that as well as NOT knowing what to "expect".
Electric Ocean was last on the bill, and I was barely hanging onto awareness at this time, but I really started to wake up once I saw the equipment and band members setting up.
I had a feeling these guys were going to be different than a lot of bands I've seen, from the age differences, styles, and personalities I was meeting.
When the club lights kicked off, immediately there was a feeling of ambience and curiosity with keyboardist Dave producing some haunting intros, and Bic (quite a young bass player) with MUCHO energy, a lot of precision, coming up and off the stage, which is always cool!
Ben has a very steady and confident voice and carries his band quite well, and I can't say enough about Nelson on lead guitars!
They aren't kidding when they say this guy sincerely shreds...
The drummer Brian was explosive from their very first song, and everything came together so tight and full.
I found myself front and center (sideways and upside down), very impressed with every one of them.
Electric Ocean are one of those bands that it's hard to focus on just one musician as they're all totally entertaining and the songs very unpredictable.
"Bone of Contention" and "Keep You In My Pocket" were two of my fave songs.
I can't say enough about their sound, production, and arrangement of their show; at times I felt like I was at a concert venue.
Electric Ocean are in the process of finishing their CD, and I would definitely recommend checking them out wherever their next gig may happen.
I'd love to see them at Club Kristal, but again, they put on a hell of a show anywhere.
Their line up includes:
Ben-Lead vocals, Rhythm Guitar
Nelson Broyal- Lead Guitar
Bic Meshew - Bassist
Brian Sands - Drums
Dave Loyola - Keyboards
Hollywood Bill- Production coordinator, lights, & special effects
Band Website - theelectricocean.com
www.myspace.com/electricocean