Ocean Colour Scene
B-Sides, Seasides & Freerides

CD: MCA, 1977

Tracks:
1. Huckleberry Grove
a peaceful introduction, moving even. Features a rather unique trombone solo at the end.
2. The Day We Caught The Train (Acoustic)
absolute magic; a much nicer sound than the original. The tempo and commercialy appealing aspects have been removed to give a supreme acoustic sound.
3. Mrs Jones
such a lovely song. Finely picked, strengthened by steeping piano.
4. Top Of The World
I love the verses but the chorus doesn't seem to fit them quite right. Plenty of lead guitar and piano.
5. Here In My Heart
once again a magical chord pattern of acoustic brilliance with the ever-faithful harmonica thrown in for good measure. Remains my all time favourite song.
6. I Wanna Stay Alive With You
a fleeting rhythm all the way through with touches of everything else, complimented by the emotional vocals.
7. Robin Hood
enterprising and inspirational, the vocals overpower.
8. Chelsea Walk
the lively times return; owes much to the bass and piano, spruced up by streaking harmonica. Originally played in the late 80's, the music hasn't changed at all.
9. Outside Of A Circle
nothing more than some picking and strumming of the classic single. Faint piano deepen emotions, how can anyone be this good?
10. The Clock Struck 15 Hours Ago
exhibits a number of of elements - a strong and thoughtful tune. The limmit of the album's brilliance.
11. Alibis
such a smooth song with strings galore; raw guitar along with the ever-haunting charms of the violin, cello and viola
12. Chicken Bones And Stones
an instrumental piece featuring Paul Weller & Rico Rodriguez. Instruments in conference; the epitome of a jam.
13. Cool Cool Water
a laid back bongo beat
12. Charlie Brown Says
a fairly loose sound - like Chelsea Walk, a tune originally by The Fanatics
13. Day Tripper (Live)
this is one of the greatest live acts I've ever heard. The lads and co. put The Beatles to shame as they tear through this with high energy, spirit and class. Steve and Noel Gallagher are fantastic on the guitars, taking the song to a level beyond. Yes Gallagher Jnr, the shadow really does know.
14. Beautiful Losers
surely struck ivories with everyone in unison to send us off with a million more questions in our minds. It's just a shame that it is so short - it all ends too soon; but if that's how it's meant to be, then who am I to question it...


In my mind, one of the greatest records ever produced. It's a very simple album, consisting of some b-sides and various other moments of magic. An acoustic journey through the best and the worst of times for the band; the depth and feel is beyond anything else. There are no musical wonders on this album - most songs are extremely basic, some just a flutter of guitar. However, some of the finest lyrics I`ve ever seen reside over every inch of this album - these put together with the perfect 'strum & tickle' style forge an everlasting, tireless experience - an experience of pure OCS at their best. Capable of bringing a tear to eye of anyone...

- comments by OCS Central
 

Last updated: 14 February 2000
compiled by Mr. Braunov, Feb. 2000
 
 
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