Ocean Carolina is a New York based outfit fronted by guitarist, singer-songwriter Michael Simone. The band’s latest release, Maudlin Days is a self proclaimed “exercise in giving up control and allowing the music to be what it’s meant to become” and the vibe and flow of the songs contained here on this are a sure indicator of that. It feels very free, while at the same time maintaining a well arranged and well thought organization to the music.
Musically, it has a very Ryan Adams-esque vibe to it, particularly the first two tracks “All I Can Do” and “Words”. Multiple guitars intertwining with one another, spinning in concert but also doing their own thing. Ringing out as a chorus backing the words flowing from Simone’s breath. Subtle and charming harmony parts that don’t overpower, but add to the depth and texture of the track. It keeps things very interesting to a listener and the record sonically sits in a very comfortable kind of a place. It’s incredibly pleasing, mixed particularly well, and I could listen to this record 4 times in a row and go back for a 5th without pause. I suppose that all makes sense, given that the record was produced by Cardinals member Jon Graboff.
Michael Simone channels Adams most strongly in the tune “If It Burns Out Bright”, I do a double take for a moment when the song comes in. It has a very “Gold” kind of a feeling to it. His voice is prime here. There is a rise and fall to the arrangement that highlights that perfectly and there is some catchy and memorable riffing anchoring the repeated line “never want to say goodbye” at the outset. A really wonderfully written tune.
There are hints of country here. When alt-country was at its peak and people still weren’t using the term as freely as they are. When Whiskeytown and Wilco were the pioneers for the genre bending style of music. The blending of catchy hooks and great songwriting is a rare gift and these tunes play that game and balance extremely well.
12 songs never felt so concise. Typically after about 10 I am wondering “when is this record going to end” but Maudlin Days is a great listen each and every time. This is the first I have heard of the group, but certainly not the last time I will be digging into the music of songwriter Michael Simone.