Album Review: Oceans Ate Alaska - Hikari

It's hard to put your finger on what Oceans Ate Alaska are going for with latest release Hikari, mixing thrashing breakdowns, lung puncturing bass lines and gritty growls with melodic, pop punk-esque clean vocals and hooks.

The UK group aimed to incorporate traditional Japanese instruments with modern hardcore and for the most part - in songs like Veridical - it worked, but the constant chopping and changing of pace can seem messy, and takes some getting used to. Encapsulating themes of self-discovery and purpose ("Sometimes losing yourself is the only way back home"), Hikari is a unique and eclectic look into experimental hardcore.