What makes Phanerozoic II: Mesozoic / Cenozoic by The Ocean notable?

The album received critical acclaim, appearing on several year-end lists for its ambitious structure and conceptual depth. It also marked a significant moment for The Ocean as they continued to influence the post-metal scene with their unique blend of progressive elements and heavy instrumentation. Phanerozoic II: Mesozoic / Cenozoic is The Ocean's fifth studio album, following their 2018 release Phanerozoic I: Paleozoic. The band has increasingly embraced expansive compositions and thematic storytelling, solidifying their position in the post-metal genre.

Who is Phanerozoic II: Mesozoic / Cenozoic for?

Phanerozoic II: Mesozoic / Cenozoic works well if you're into wave-like pacing inviting reflection, dynamic journey through epochs and immersive headphone experience required.

How many songs are on Phanerozoic II: Mesozoic / Cenozoic?

Phanerozoic II: Mesozoic / Cenozoic has 8 tracks, running approximately 51 minutes.

Phanerozoic II: Mesozoic / Cenozoic

The Ocean · 2020

51 min · 8 tracks · post-metal

A sweeping exploration of geological epochs, merging heavy riffs with intricate soundscapes and atmospheric interludes.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Jurassic | Cretaceous — This nearly 14-minute track encapsulates the album's grand narrative, blending intense heaviness with serene passages that mirror the dramatic shifts of time it represents.
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Triassic — Opening the album, this track sets the stage with its dynamic shifts from crushing riffs to haunting melodies, embodying the essence of geological transformation.
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Pleistocene — This track showcases The Ocean's prowess in building tension through layered instrumentation and vocal harmonies, effectively conveying the emotional weight of Earth's history.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

73 /100

Alpine

Higher than 96% of albums we've rated

The album's ambitious structure and thematic depth create a cohesive listening experience that rewards repeat plays.

What we noticed

Each track is structured around distinct geological epochs, with musical themes reflecting the characteristics of each period.
The album features extended compositions, with several tracks exceeding six minutes and incorporating dynamic shifts between heavy riffs and atmospheric passages.
Interludes are used strategically to create transitions between heavier sections, allowing for a contrast that enhances the thematic storytelling.

Composition 25% of the score: 8/10
Craft 20% of the score: 7/10
Durability 25% of the score: 8/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 7/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 9/10

Influence 6/10

Significant within its genre. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

wave-like pacing inviting reflection
dynamic journey through epochs
immersive headphone experience required
cathartic crescendos and releases

Maybe skip if you

seeking short, standalone tracks
dislike gradual unfolding narratives

Where this album fits

Career context: Phanerozoic II: Mesozoic / Cenozoic is The Ocean's fifth studio album, following their 2018 release Phanerozoic I: Paleozoic. The band has increasingly embraced expansive compositions and thematic storytelling, solidifying their position in the post-metal genre.
Stylistic neighbors: Cult of Luna· Neurosis· Isis