Treading Oceans is the latest pop punk group to be birthed from the depths of St. Louis, Missouri. On November 25th the four piece rock outfit released their debut self-titled EP, which was recorded, mixed and produced by the band’s very own Evan Murray. Combining elements of modern post-rock with poetic emo influences, Treading Oceans marries a number of sub-genres to create a decadent helping of what some like to refer to as “sadcore.”
The seven song EP begins with the instrumental opener appropriately titled “Deep Water,” which offers salted and murky riffs which eventually close with a whirlpool that leads into track number two known as “Boundaries.” The high energy and rhythmically sophisticated track is a single-worthy anthem that introduces the delicate yet stealthy range and power of vocalist Sarah Gallen’s pipes.
Perhaps the most lyrically profound is the fifth song in, “Florist,” which is a self-analytical and somewhat confessional piece about recognizing the step that must be taken backwards in order to see the bigger picture.
Track number six is the band’s first single, known as “Spare Lungs,” which contains tinges of favorite moments from The Wonder Years and The Story So Far. Catchy hooks, mechanical rhythms, toasty bass, crispy distortion, and dualing vocals make this an obvious choice for winning the hearts of pop punk fans all across the board.
Treading Oceans‘ self-titled EP demonstrates a wide possibility for the band’s future in the budding sadcore niche of the rock scene. It is quite apparent that their versatility, positive energy, and passion will take them far.
Rating: 4/5