Ocean Colour Scene in Concert
Ocean Colour Scene is one of the few remaining bands from the classic mid-‘90s Britpop era that have continued to record and tour while staying close to their original roots. Formed in the ‘90s, Ocean Colour Scene began as a band heavily influenced by the Madchester scene, with trippy guitars, dance-styled drum, and bass reminiscent of acts such as The Stones Roses and The Happy Mondays.
Following their self-titled debut, the band released 1996's Moseley Shoals along with smash hits “The Circle” and “The Day We Caught the Train.” The group caught the crest of the Britpop wave alongside such luminaries as Oasis, Blur and Pulp. Such was their popularity during this period that the group were asked to perform at Oasis' marquee concerts held at Knebworth House.
Similarly, a track from Moseley Shoals seeped into the wider public's consciousness when a version of “The Riverboat Song” was selected by Chris Evans to be used as the introductory music for guests during episodes of TFI Friday.
1997's Marchin' Already was the band's first UK No. 1 album, and was preceded by Hundred Mile High City, which was used to great effect during Guy Ritchie's debut feature, Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels. This success prompted the band to embark on their first headline arena tour, which also featured dates at the historic Stirling Castle in Scotland. Their fourth album, One from the Modern, featured the singles “So Low,” “July” and “Profit In Peace.”
As many of their Britpop contemporaries moved in new directions or disbanded, Ocean Colour Scene remained steadfastly committed to producing music that was influenced by the psychedelic and R&B scenes of the ‘60s. Guitarist Steve Cradock is a long-time collaborator on Paul Weller's albums, and bassist Damon Minchella formed a side project, The Players, alongside Mick Talbot and Steve White. Minchella left the group in 2003 and was replaced by Dan Sealey. The band have a habit of releasing an album every two years, with major tours in support of these releases. 2011 saw a 15th-anniversary re-release of the album, Moseley Shoals, with the subsequent tour drawing heavily from the album. Ocean Colour Scene are regulars on the festival circuit, with many appearances at Glastonbury and the V Festivals, among others.
