Ocean (Eloy album)
Ocean is a concept album by the German progressive rock band Eloy, released in 1977. It is considered one of the band's most successful and critically acclaimed works. The album tells a narrative about the origins of life, evolution, and the relationship between humanity and the sea.
Concept and Story:
Ocean explores themes of creation, evolution, and human nature through a metaphorical journey into the ocean. The story follows the emergence of life from primordial waters, its development into complex forms, and the potential for both beauty and destruction inherent in sentient beings. The ocean serves as a symbol of the vastness and mystery of existence.
Musical Style:
The album showcases Eloy's signature blend of progressive rock, symphonic rock, and art rock. It features extended instrumental passages, intricate arrangements, and Christian Kolonovits' orchestral contributions, which enhance the album's epic and cinematic feel. The music is characterized by soaring melodies, dynamic shifts, and atmospheric soundscapes.
Track Listing:
The original album consists of four extended tracks:
- "Poseidon's Creation"
- "Incarnation of Logos"
- "Decay of Logos"
- "Atlantis' Agony at June 5th - 8498, 13:00 CET"
Personnel:
The musicians involved in the creation of Ocean were:
- Frank Bornemann: Guitars, Vocals
- Klaus-Peter Matziol: Bass
- Jürgen Rosenthal: Drums, Percussion
- Detlev Schmidtchen: Keyboards
- Christian Kolonovits: Orchestral Arrangements
Legacy:
Ocean remains a highly regarded album within the progressive rock community. Its combination of ambitious storytelling, intricate musicianship, and evocative atmosphere has cemented its place as a classic of the genre. The album's themes of environmental awareness and the interconnectedness of life continue to resonate with listeners today.