Album Review

Strawberry Ocean Sea – Down By The River

• 10th Jun 2011

It’s been a busy time for Glasgow rockers Strawberry Ocean Sea. A fine set at the West End Festival followed on from a support slot with Glasvegas, which came about because James Allen loves the band. And tomorrow sees the band’s festival debut at Rock Ness.

In between all of this live activity the band managed to find time to record and release this single, which is the first part of a double A side. The second half will be released later in the year.

Down By The River typifies the SOS approach to music. It has a dark and atmospheric sound, yet the lyrics are full of hope. The single starts slowly, Jonny Skinner’s vocals setting the scene over a gentle keyboard part before a slow drum beat heralds the arrival of the guitars.

This is a tale of struggle yet survival. Of escape to a place where there is magic in the air. Of faith in a better life to come. It’s basically a fine rock song from a young up and coming band, yet it has a maturity that hints at what is to come from the band.

Let Strawberry Ocean Sea take you Down By The River. You will enjoy the journey.