Words by Sam Townsend // Melting Wax Photography
Beloved indie trio The Wombats return with their highly anticipated sixth studio album, ‘Oh! The Ocean’, a vibrant exploration of life’s highs and lows showcasing the band’s distinctive fusion of appealing melodies and introspective lyricism. Known for their catchy hooks and clever wordplay, this release marks a significant chapter in their discography, as they delve deeper into themes of love, heartbreak, and the complexities of modern life.
With ‘Oh! The Ocean’, The Wombats continue to evolve their sound while retaining the playful essence fans cherish. Melodic opener (and lead single) Sorry I’m Late, I Didn’t Want to Come, sets a lively tone, whilst tracks like Gut Punch hit a poignant note, mixing melancholic vibes with the enthralling synths The Wombats are known for. Whilst the blending of feeling a little bit down with dancing along to infectious sounds may be their signature ‘move’, ‘Oh! The Ocean’ is still a testament to the band’s growth as artists. Each song is crafted with attention to detail, featuring a rich soundscape which combines jangly guitars, pulsating synths, and dynamic percussion.
As always, The Wombats tackle explorations of affection, though this album offers a more nuanced perspective. There’s a blend of romantic idealism and the harsh realities of relationships. Similarly, with dreamy Grim Reaper, The Wombats have captured a wonderful sense of nostalgia and reflection. Here, the lyrics evoke memories of past experiences and lost memories, wrapped in lush melodies to transport the listener to a more wistful time. Once again, The Wombats masterfully blend their signature sound with a sense of longing.
When Blood On The Hospital Floor bursts through my headphones, the upbeat energy instantly transports me back to their electrifying performance at Splendour In The Grass in 2018. The track’s infectious rhythm and engaging hooks capture the essence of that unforgettable festival moment, where the crowd was buzzing with excitement, making it impossible not to smile and reminisce about the vibrant atmosphere and shared joy of live music.
‘Oh! The Ocean’ also explores a grittier side with tracks featuring slightly heavier guitar riffs like The World’s Not Out to Get Me, I Am. This track adds an edge to the overall sound, blending The Wombats‘ signature pop sensibilities with a raw, driving energy. The powerful riffs elevate the lyrics, creating a sense of defiance and resilience which resonates, proving whilst the band is known for their memorable tunes, they can also deliver a punch when it comes to showcasing their musical versatility.
As The Wombats continue to push their creative boundaries, they demonstrate a remarkable ability to connect with their audience through relatable lyrics and infectious harmonies. While some tracks on ‘Oh! The Ocean’ embrace a more subdued sound, The Wombats signature style shines through, infusing each song with the energy and charm fans have come to love. ‘Oh! The Ocean’ promises to resonate deeply with both long-time supporters and newcomers alike, solidifying their place in the ever-evolving indie-pop landscape.
The integration of synth and alternative rock elements not only revitalises The Wombats‘ sound but also showcases their growth as musicians. They skilfully balance catchy hooks and clever lyrics with this fresh direction, setting themselves apart in today’s diverse music scene. With a renewed sense of authenticity and creativity, ‘Oh! The Ocean’ marks a significant chapter in The Wombats‘ journey, propelling them into an exciting new phase of their musical evolution and leaving listeners eager for what’s next.
THE WOMBATS
AUSTRALIAN TOUR 2025
W/ DEL WATER GAP^ | BEA AND HER BUSINESS* | RA RA VIPER*
Presale available from 12pm local time Friday 14 February
General Tickets on sale from 12pm local time Monday 17 February
Saturday 20 September – SummerSalt Festival @ Torquay Common, Torquay^*
Sunday 21 September – AEC Theatre, Adelaide*
Wednesday 24 September – Festival Hall, Melbourne*
Friday 26 September – Riverstage, Brisbane^*
Saturday 27 September – SummerSalt Festival @ Woodstock Farm, Tamborine^*
Sunday 28 September – SummerSalt Festival @ Speers Point Park, Lake Macquarie^*
Wednesday 01 October – Hordern Pavilion, Sydney*
Saturday 04 October – SummerSalt Festival @ Esplanade Park, Fremantle^*
With thanks to Positive Feedback
