Ocean Alley were in town last week and they absolutely packed the crowds into Vicar Street like sardines. And a crowd of people that you might not usually see on the Dublin scene, a Surf Rock vibe, style and mood was oozing from the pits.
Ocean Alley is an alt-surf-psych rock band from Australia known best for their dreamy, groovy sound. A band I had not heard of and was wondering how I have missed out on this buzz, but of course, I read that one of their tracks “Confidence” had become viral across the “Ticktocks” which is an app I have removed from my phone as I have enough distractions in my life.
But it leaves me to question, is this where we all need to be now? In order to keep up with the newest trends and the hottest music, must we all succumb to the ticks on the tock?
Regardless of where you get your music from, Ocean Alley is a band to add to your list of must hears.
They have a stage presence of fun, dedication, and amazing musicianship, and it helps that they are a handsome bunch too. With support from Hockey Dad, it was a night full of Auzy/Irish Love, which is one of my most favourites of gatherings. The Auzys and The Irish have such a powerful energy when we come together. So much so that if we really wanted to, we could easily take over the world.
I had first felt this energy when photographing The Southern River Band when they played in the Workman’s Club at the start of the year. Sweat dripping from the ceilings and positivity ozzzing from the walls. And it was certainly felt again on Friday the 30th of August in Vicar Street.
Hockey Dad photos:
Ocean Alley photos & set-list:
Set-list:
Touch Back Down
Tombstone
Knees Home
Double Vision
The Comedown
Drinks and Cigars
Simple Pleasures
Yellow Mellow
Holiday
Paradise a Burn
West Coast
Lemonworld
Confidence
Happy Sad
_________________
Partner in Crime
Baby Come Back
Words & Photos Carl Foran – @carlforanphotography