Weather Systems – Ocean Without a Shore (album review)

Weather Systems’ debut album “Ocean Without a Shore” is an emotional and atmospheric journey, seamlessly blending post-rock and progressive elements. As the first release from Daniel Cavanagh’s new project, it stands on its own, marking a fresh chapter for fans of his earlier work. More than just a continuation of Anathema’s sound, this album feels like a deeply personal exploration of themes like love, loss, and spirituality. The addition of Petter Carlsen and Soraia Silva on vocals, and Daniel Cardoso on drums makes this a unique project. One that deserves an hour of your time for sure.

“Synaesthesia” opens the album with a nine-minute epic that immediately wraps the listener in its lush, layered soundscapes. Listening to it late at night, I felt like it mirrored my own inner turbulence—its slow build-up felt like an emotional release waiting to happen. The powerful drumming and soaring guitars make it one of those songs you not only hear but feel deep within. By the end, I felt like the track had taken me on a meditative journey, one where peace and turbulence coexist.

“Do Angels Sing Like Rain?” is where the album begins to dig deeper into its spiritual core. The vocals soar, and the recurring theme of angels adds a layer of mysticism to the track. What struck me was how it feels both delicate and powerful at the same time, with melodies that linger long after the song ends. I found myself revisiting this one, not just for its beauty, but for the sense of calm it brought amidst more complex emotions.

“Untouchable Part 3” draws directly from Anathema’s “Untouchable” series, and while it tugs at familiar heartstrings, it does so with a fresh energy. The orchestration is grand, the vocal harmonies are poignant, and by the end of it, I found myself immersed in a sense of longing—one that felt deeply familiar but still raw. This track bridges the gap between Daniel Cavanagh’s musical past and present, giving long-time fans a bittersweet taste of nostalgia, while offering something new.

As the title track, “Ocean Without a Shore” feels like the emotional and sonic centerpiece of the album. The slow build of filtered vocals and reserved melodies felt almost like a quiet reflection, pulling me into a deeply introspective space. When the electronic rhythm finally kicked in, I felt a surge of energy, like the track was guiding me towards something more expansive. It’s a slow burn but one that rewards patience with its rich emotional depth.

“The Space Between Us” left me feeling like I was floating. Its tribal-like vocal harmonies and atmospheric production felt otherworldly, as if the song was reaching beyond the physical to tap into something cosmic. This track, especially, felt like the perfect conclusion to the album’s journey. Listening to it while sitting by my window, watching the rain fall, I couldn’t help but feel like the music was speaking directly to the quiet spaces in my own life, filling them with both peace and longing.

One of the more unexpected tracks for me was “Ghost in the Machine.” At first, it seemed like another atmospheric piece, but after a couple of listens, I found myself humming its melodies at random moments. The interplay between the male and female vocals added a depth to the song that I didn’t notice at first. It’s one of those tracks that sneaks up on you and lingers long after you’ve stopped listening.

“Still Lake” provides a quieter, more reflective moment on the album. It begins with a piano-driven melody that gradually builds in intensity, leading to a cathartic release of sound. The emotional depth in this track reminded me of Anathema’s earlier works, but with a new sense of maturity. It’s the kind of song that allows for introspection, making it one of the more emotionally evocative moments on the record.

“Ocean Without a Shore” is more than just a debut—it’s an experience that stays with you long after the final note fades. Weather Systems have created an album that is deeply personal, offering listeners a chance to reflect on their own emotions and experiences. For me, it’s been more than just music; it’s been a companion for quiet moments and deep thoughts. Whether you’re a long-time fan of Daniel Cavanagh’s work or a new listener, this album will leave an indelible mark.

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Further Reading:

For more insights on “Ocean Without a Shore,” check out in-depth reviews on sonicperspectives,  progreport and blabbermouth.



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Listen to Ocean Without a Shore on Spotify