We spoke with Wild Oceans about “Bloodbath” and more!

Q: “Bloodbath” is a bold title for a debut single. What’s the story behind it?

A: Bloodbath is actually a heartbreak song, believe it or not! It’s one of those song titles that fits the sound of the actual song itself and it just stuck. Although this song had alternative chorus lyrics once upon a time until the drummer persuaded me to change them! The sentiment of the song has always been a break up song though.

Q: You’ve called this not a comeback but a reinvention. What does that mean for you as a band right now?

A: We’ve all played in various bands over the years and we didn’t want this band to be seen as all of us returning to play similar music to what we have produced before. It’s completely new sound, new band and new direction.

Q: The track hits hard from the very first beat. When you were putting it together, what kind of energy or mood did you want listeners to feel?

A: We’ve always loved that Queens of The Stoneage/Royal Blood/Biffy Clyro energy when songs just hit you hard and are almost dramatic because of how aggressive they are. We wanted that with Bloodbath although, like all songs worth keeping, we really didn’t think too hard about this song. It just came out in a jam when we were all playing together and we knew it was a good one.

Q: “Bloodbath” feels like it comes from a really confident place. Was that confidence always there, or did it build as you worked on the track?

A: I think that confident undercurrent comes from all of us knowing our instruments and how to construct songs. We’ve worked with some big and very experienced producers on various projects and have essentially stolen all their knowledge and tips! Even the early demos of Bloodbath sounded massive so that song has always had something about it.

Q: You’ve all got experience behind you, but this project feels like a fresh start. Was there anything you had to unlearn from past projects to make this sound your own?

A: Not unlearn as such because there is never a wasted gig, rehearsal or opportunity when you’re in a band. We have certainly learned what not to do with songs from previous bands. Certainly lyrically, having that universal appeal is something I’ve learned is hugely important as a song writer. It has to resonate with people whereas in the past, I’ve tended to go very obscure with my lyrics deliberately which can certainly hinder you.

Q: People have said you grab attention from the get-go. What do you think it is about your sound that makes that happen?

A: Firstly the fact we’re a live band. We write altogether, in a rehearsal room as a proper rock band. Guitars loud, bass loud and hard hitting drums all with a strong melody over the top. We’re also not really a very self indulgent band. We want to grab the listeners attention quickly, not with 2 minute intros or lots of guitar solos.

Q: You’re working with Top Floor and Viaduct Promotions on this campaign. How has that partnership helped bring the single to life?

A: Top Floor have been great. They have secured us lots of amazing reviews for this single and the content we’ve been able to garner from these reviews has been invaluable. They’re always on hand to answer our questions too.

Q: Every debut track feels like a statement. What do you hope people take away from “Bloodbath” after their first listen?

A: That we’re a proper band, with proper songs and that we’re here to stay. Bloodbath was never meant to be the debut single until the label we’re working with told us it had to be the lead single because of how impactful it is!

Q: Before the year wraps up, what’s next for Wild Oceans? More music, gigs, or maybe something unexpected?

A: We’re releasing our next single ‘Pieces’ on 7th November which will be available across all streaming platforms. We’re playing in Bristol on 18th November at the Exchange Basement and we’re also getting our next few singles mixed for release in January and February. We then play London and Exeter in Jan and Feb and will continue to release singles over the next 6 months until we head back into the studio to do it all again!