Holocene cover

Holocene

The Ocean · 2023

150 min · 21 tracks · post-metal

A sprawling exploration of post-metal that weaves atmospheric intricacies with heavy, crushing riffs.

Why this album works

'Holocene' has garnered attention for its environmental themes and the dual version release, showcasing both instrumental and lyrical interpretations. Critics have noted its impact on the post-metal scene, further solidifying The Ocean's reputation for combining deep lyrical content with expansive soundscapes.
Best for
wave-like pacing with climaxes immersive journey through soundscapes long-form exploration of themes
Context
Released on May 19, 2023, 'Holocene' is The Ocean's first album since their acclaimed 2019 release, 'Phanerozoic II: Mesozoic | Cenozoic'. This album marks a continuation of their ambitious thematic exploration of Earth’s history and climate change, reinforcing their status as leading figures in the post-metal genre.
Stylistic neighbors
Infant Island· Junius· Deafheaven

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

Disc 1

  • 1 Preboreal 5:04
  • 2 Boreal 3:41
  • 3 Sea of Reeds 5:48
  • 4 Atlantic Standout 8:49
  • 5 Subboreal 4:46
  • 6 Unconformities 9:09
  • 7 Parabiosis 8:12
  • 8 Subatlantic 6:55

Disc 2

  • 1 Preboreal (instrumental) 5:04
  • 2 Boreal (instrumental) 3:41
  • 3 Sea of Reeds (instrumental) 5:48
  • 4 Atlantic (instrumental) 8:49
  • 5 Subboreal (instrumental) 4:46
  • 6 Unconformities (instrumental) 9:09
  • 7 Parabiosis (instrumental) 8:12
  • 8 Subatlantic (instrumental) 6:55

Disc 3

  • 1 Response Standout 4:49
  • 2 Remission 6:23
  • 3 Relapse 6:43
  • 4 Recovery 3:44
  • 5 Recurrence Standout 24:00

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata