One word summary: Relevant.

It's been a while since we heard from the piano-driven cinematic rock group, Lost Ocean. They first came on the music scene with their Indie release in 2005 with a very epic trademark sound that caught the attention of Credential Recordings. Credential decided to polish up that raw epic sound and released their Self-titled debut in 2007, which sealed Lost Ocean's trademark version of piano-rock. Unfortunately, their musical genius and epic rock was too complex for many to truly appreciate and enjoy because of the culture's infatuation with instant gratification.

Now, after more than two years of changes, struggles, and sacrifice, the California quartet has independently released a new EP, which is just a taste of what is to come. All Our Friends EP is a short but sweet morsel of their new relevant sound. Even though the new sound is definitely more radio-friendly and pop-influenced, Lost Ocean's trademark epic rock is still present. This creative combination results in a sound that old fans will appreciate and new fans will be drawn to.

The EP starts off with "Lately I Can't Fly," which has a grand introduction that immediately gives the impression of maturity. The intro to this song ushers in the new chapter to Lost Ocean's journey. This first song sounds like a transition from their debut style to their new style and communicates that things will be different from now on. Just when the listener is thinking about the improving maturity of the band, the second song, "Good Morning," introduces them to the new pop influenced sound. This shows the fun side of Lost Ocean's new sound. After the first half of the EP, the listener will be enjoying the new sound but not sure what to conclude. After the beautiful third song, "Every Word She Said," which is the apex of Lost Ocean's creativity in mixing their trademark sound with pop, the listener is sold on the new sound. The EP closes with "Dance to This Heartbeat," which is just icing on the cake that shows that epic rock can be mixed with pop to create unforgettable results.

This EP tells a story of change for Lost Ocean. As with every change, there will be some older fans that will miss the non-pop sound, but ultimately the change was necessary to be musically relevant. We can expect great things from Lost Ocean in the near future with the anticipation of a full-length album influenced by this new sound.

Review date: 1/29/03, written by James Witmyer for Jesusfreakhideout.com