In Exile

Album Review

The Frozen Ocean is a one-man band. Dave Swanson, formerly of Life in Your Way, is the guilty party. He plays all of the instruments except for drums. This release is a bit of an indie folk rock experiment, and the rootsy feel of many of the songs is where the strength of In Exile lies.

It's obvious Dave feels deeply about the topics he's singing about. That's best represented in “In the Garden,” a mellow acoustic song lasting a mere 1:53. The creative intro to “Drawing Circles in the Sand” is another bright spot on the EP. It's a song I frequently revisit, and I notice something different every time I hear it. It's as if something new is revealed with each play.

“Promised Land” is easily the best song. I find it strange that he decided to put it last on the disc. Usually the standout track ends up in the first half of an album. I think the EP as a whole would have benefited from placing it among the first few songs.

The writing on In Exile is solid, and the themes are relatable, sweet, and uplifting. His voice isn't unique, but it's good. The Frozen Ocean may seem like an artist with just a few ideas, but he believes in them, and we all know belief is a powerful thing to have. This is a sentimental release that gives me hope we haven't heard the last of The Frozen Ocean.

Review by Anthony P. Hanna