Eight years after their last release, a six-year hiatus and a crowd-funding campaign later, Melbourne favourites Antiskeptic’s sophomore album is finally here. Stare Down The Ocean is the new 10-track effort from the local lads who entrenched themselves in the rock scene alongside bands such as Motor Ace and Jet in the early 2000’s.
It’s hard to believe this is only their second album, despite a slew of EP’s and live offerings. It feels as if the style of the band’s sound is still stuck in the mid 2000’s, and that’s not necessarily a bad thing. Many believe bands should stick to making the type of music they love and are passionate about no matter how many years roll on, and that’s clearly what the Keppers (as they’re affectionately known) have done.
Opening track The Kids Aren’t Scared,sounds somewhat like Fall Out Boy from a vocal perspective but still manages to sound like the band many of us fondly remember. Lead single Hey Dissident is a highlight as singles often are; it’s the guitars that soar throughout the track that make it memorable. Empty Lungs sees another change of style; it feels like another band altogether, but it works.
The band sounds noticeably varied, as if they can’t settle on one sound or style on this release. It comes off like a pop-punk compilation, and while those who crave cohesion in their records will hate it, for most, it’ll prove rewarding.
BY ALEXANDER CROWDEN
Best Track: The Kids Aren’t Scared
If You Like These, You’ll Love This: Motor Ace, Fall Out Boy, Motion City Soundtrack
In A Word: Triumphant
