Talia Hoit may not be a name that you instantly recognise, but don’t let that fact deter you from approaching this release. Having been involved already in the production of two studio albums, with Colorado-based symphonic / gothic metal band Beyond Forgiveness, there is no question that Talia Hoit has the necessary credentials to embark on her own solo career. But setting that aside, such a change can still be formidable. So, does Hoit sink or swim on her maiden voyage?
Even with an assumedly smaller budget than a lot of her musical competitors, “Oceans” holds up remarkably well by modern standards. There is an obvious amount of polish when you listen to the album’s production quality. The “how” and “why” make perfect sense as soon as you learn that Frank Pitters assisted with the mixing and mastering (Visions of Atlantis, Deep Sun, Edenbridge). The rest of the line-up includes guitarist Mat Plekhanov (Dragony), drummer Roland Navratil (Atrocity, Leaves’ Eyes, Edenbridge), along with bass and rhythm guitarist, Max Stoner (who appears to be mostly famous for his dope name). But as stellar as this crew might be, the true shining star is none other than Hoit herself, who serves as a constant beacon in the night sky – guiding us through the mysterious seas that lie in wait.
Her vocal delivery is at once distinctive, while at the same time familiar. Most listeners will quickly find comfort and acclimatize to her angelic singing. But let’s not get too settled, as the opening tune, “Castaway“, has been designed to immediately test your sea legs. “How can I survive // When the rogue wave hits me from behind”. Touching on a feeling which I’m sure many of us have experienced at some point in our lives. Despite the sense of despair, the song’s steady pace and powerful choruses drive this more into the realms of an upbeat anthem. The music is just abundantly pleasant, in spite of the disheartening lyrics.
It’s like I’m stranded and forsaken in a world torn apart
Talia Hoit – Castaway
Trying to face all the sorrows of silent wars
Been betrayed by a hope in my once awakened heart
Wrecked upon the shores
A Castaway
The folksy melody of “Unanchored” brings a quiet sea change, and potential glimpse for an optimistic future: “I wonder what will come tomorrow, will I wash ashore“. Fans of metal with a more pirate-themed vibe should like this one especially. “Ocean” tries to keep this hopeful transition alive, with the promise of love now being floated as a saviour in this impassioned heavy metal ballad: “My waves will carry you // the tides will bring you in // I’ll take away your fears // and I’ll find you through the storms”.
At this point, it is obvious that Hoit is not only an amazing vocal talent (to rival some of the best the genre already has to offer) – but she is also a seriously accomplished songwriter and storyteller in her own right. I’m not entirely sure why her singing is at times so recognisable. It is possible I have unwittingly come across her work before. But what I do know is that this combining of dark, introspective lyrics, and her sweet soprano voice is an absolute auditory treat. I can’t really explain it. All I can say is that it just works. And I suppose, that is the main conceit of the album. The rest of the band still do their part admirably, but their efforts ultimately fade into the background when placed next to the powerful duo of Hoit’s compositional and vocal sensibilities.
“Beautiful” is another terrific highlight on the album, and a personal favourite. Once again, an aesthetically pleasing exterior belies the gloomier undertones of the song. Perhaps not unlike the ocean itself, and the mysterious dangers that lurk beneath the calm beauty of its surface. It is this dichotomy that permeates throughout the songs, which not only matches the multi-layered themes, but makes for an intriguing fusion overall.
“Stolen” introduces the familiar sirens in Greek mythology to warn of deception, and how we must all live with the consequences of our choices in the future. While “Abyss” details the experience of falling deeply in love, to the point of almost losing oneself. There is still plenty of air left in the sails as we journey through the “Vastdeep“, a fast-paced song with an abundance of glittery keyboard notes which could be representative of: “The Ocean in the dawning light // Satin shimmering gold“. An energetic song this deep in the playtime is much appreciated and helps maintain interest. Epitomising the idea of remaining positive against all odds is “Island of Hope“, where a keyboard-laden intro safely navigates us into buoyant riffs and beats, and a superlative breakout guitar solo during the mid-section.
“Infinity” is Hoit’s moment to shine again, steering the ship by herself at the beginning until the band eventually accompanies her again – and in a rare moment have their own time to bask in the sunlight as well. The final song even shakes up the formula a bit, with the ever-shifting nature of “Significance“, a possible symbolic backdrop which is used to depict the constancy of our memories within a forever changing world. And on the topic of long-term retention, it is conceivable that Hoit’s “Oceans” will also be successful in forging treasured memories for its listeners. It surely marks a strong early showcase for Hoit’s solo career.
Verdict: While the seas are not entirely uncharted in Talia Hoit’s LP “Oceans”, there is still plenty of bounty to be found. It is a more serene voyage than you might be expecting too, with Hoit’s soothing voice instilling a comforting ambience and lighter tone, regardless of the turmoil in the lyrics. But if you’re looking for a pleasing listening experience that won’t rock the boat too much, you should definitely set sail with this symphonic debut.
