EXTENDED PLAY 100: THE WOMBATS | OH! THE OCEAN | ALBUM REVIEW

Words by AJ Mahar.

British Indie Rock staples, The Wombats, are back with their sixth studio album Oh! The Ocean. The much-loved group in Australia return with some tricks left up their sleeves.

The by now, well-circulated opening single Sorry I’m Late, I Didn’t Want to Come, begins proceedings. A pleasant, little groover for the introverts with it’s light disco beat, and slightly Beatles-inspired chord progression. The Beetle Gees. The Scouser influence continues into Can’t Say No, along with a lyrical nuggets of Wombats quirk. 

After the album firmly establishes itself as one of The Wombats, a new sonic set of clothes dresses the album with Kate Moss. A deep, brooding groove flawlessly struts runway style, topped with dramatic piano. Overall, almost iconic as its namesake. The first real feeling of something new on the record. 

More familiar styles return on Gut Punch, before the anxiety filled My Head is Not My Friend. The anxiety takes an irresistibly danceable feel on I Love America, But She Hates Me. The disturbingly fitting title marches defiantly with a big 90’s pop feel, dappled with some eerie synths. Heavier territory for the band is approached on The World’s Not Out to Get Me, I Am; a much-needed touch of bravery for the album.

Thunderously echoed drums introduce Reality Is A Wild Ride. Another disco foray, but with more force and edge compared to earlier attempts for the album. Complete with a dominate chorus for extra floor filling effect. Swerve (101) combines tension with a hopeful chorus, we all need something to look forward to. The album closes smoothly with the electric piano driven Lobster.

The singles proceeding the album did not demonstrate the full capabilities of the band. Their history of iconic bangers prove their knowledge of songcraft, and several of the album tracks prove that. In a somewhat quiet era for guitar-based music, The Wombats have the potential to reignite, and reinspire.