Massive Ocean debuted again in 2024 as Ok-pop’s first onerous of listening to group. I’ve by no means coated their music earlier than, however teasers for brand new single One Man Military caught my eye. I’ll all the time be up for some good old style drama in Ok-pop, and this track appeared to vow an entire theater present. The precise track is a bit much less formidable than I’d like, however nonetheless simply one of the best factor launched immediately.

One Man Military employs a strings-assisted stomp to counsel bigness. The track is just too leaden to actually soar, however it’s trussed up by sufficient bombast to maintain issues fascinating. On this means, it jogs my memory of Chaser’s debut final month, which has truly grown on me since launch. The blokes do a pleasant job with it, their voices entrance and middle for max impact. What’s actually lacking is a way of spontaneous life. Songs like this have clearly been programmed and perfected to loss of life on a pc and would truly profit from the thrilling imperfections of human-played devices. Nonetheless, I recognize that the group has expanded their sonic playground. I’m curious how far they will take this type.

Grade: B-