The Ocean of the Sky cover

The Ocean of the Sky

The Used · 2013

40 min · 5 tracks · alternative rock

Atmospheric melodies intertwine with raw, emotional vocals, creating a dynamic soundscape that captures the essence of existential exploration.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Iddy Biddy Start here — accessible entry with immediate hook
  • →
    The Ocean of the Sky — The title track serves as a centerpiece for the album, weaving intricate melodies with profound themes of introspection and existentialism, encapsulating the album's overarching narrative.
  • →
    Tethys — This nearly twenty-minute track showcases the band's adventurous spirit, blending ambient sections with intense climaxes, highlighting their willingness to experiment beyond conventional song structures.
  • →
    Thought Criminal — This track features sharp lyrical commentary on societal norms and personal rebellion, making it a standout example of the band's ability to fuse thought-provoking content with powerful instrumentation.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • introspective moments of quiet reflection
  • dynamic shifts in emotional intensity
  • immersive journey through soundscapes
  • long-form exploration of themes

Maybe skip if you

  • seeking instant gratification
  • prefer concise, standalone tracks

Where this album fits

In the catalog
Deep Cut — Represents a solid entry in their catalog, but not widely recognized as a standout.
Themes
societal rebellion· post-hardcore evolution
Career context
When The Ocean of the Sky was released in 2013, The Used was navigating a period of artistic evolution following their 2012 album, Vulnerable. This fifth studio album marked a return to their post-hardcore roots while incorporating experimental elements, reflecting the band's growth since their early 2000s breakthrough.

Moments worth listening for

Where the writing does something specific.

  • Thought Criminal

    The shift in perspective during the bridge confronts societal expectations directly, challenging listeners to reconsider conformity and authenticity.

    This moment disrupts the narrative flow established earlier in the song, creating a powerful call to action that emphasizes individuality over societal pressures.

Tracklist

  • 1 Iddy Biddy Start here 3:21
  • 2 Quixotica 3:37
  • 3 Thought Criminal 4:46
  • 4 The Ocean of the Sky 8:15
  • 5 Tethys 20:28

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata