Sorry if this sounds like a press release, but a recommendation for all lovers of pretentious metal - a German eight piece called The Ocean. I came across the album 'fluXion' the other day - sounds a bit like a cross between Neurosis and Breach, but more symphonic, with strings and flutes and shit.

They're bloody fantastic and I can't believe I hadn't heard of them before. They've just put out a new album on Metal Blade featuring such luminaries as Thomas Hallbom (Breach), Sean Ingram (Coalesce) and Nate Newton (Converge/OMG) so no doubt they'll start getting the attention they deserve soon. Yes. MP3s on website or Myspack. Check dis shit.

www.theoceancollective.com
http://www.myspace.com/theoceancollective