Review By Darren McIntyre
Following over a decade fronting acclaimed rock outfit The Dust Coda, John Drake emerges reborn with his debut solo single ‘Ocean’, marking a bold new chapter in his musical evolution. Released April 4th 2025, ‘Ocean’ is the first glimpse into his forthcoming solo album Separation Songs—a collection already promising to be rich in introspection, sonic experimentation, and emotional weight.
Inspired by the grandeur and emotional depth of Bowie and Peter Gabriel, ‘Ocean’ fuses groove, soul, and a shimmering melancholy that feels simultaneously heavy and hopeful. Drake himself describes the track as “a song about dreaming big but feeling very small,” an exploration of self-doubt and the overwhelming pull of life’s uncertainties. That tension is evident in every layer of the song—from the gently haunting vocal melodies to the unexpected textures of fat, gritty beats and ‘70s-style percussive guitars woven subtly beneath the surface.
Having played to massive crowds with The Dust Coda—including a career-high Hyde Park performance supporting Guns N’ Roses—and scoring chart success with albums like Mojo Skyline and Loco Paradise, Drake’s leap into solo territory isn’t just bold—it’s necessary. His decision to “start over” is felt deeply in ‘Ocean’, a track that speaks to reinvention, vulnerability, and the bravery it takes to admit when the pieces of your life no longer fit.
This isn’t just a departure—it’s an arrival. Drake’s move from anthemic hard rock into more intimate and atmospheric territory showcases an artist unafraid to dig deep and start fresh. With Separation Songs on the horizon, ‘Ocean’ stands as a beautifully honest introduction to what could be Drake’s most compelling work yet.
Watch this space—John Drake is only just getting started.
+ There are no comments
Add yours