We had the good fortune of connecting with Specific Ocean and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Specific Ocean, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your band?
Specific Ocean was formed in 2014 when we decided to pursue writing music outside of our jazz school environment. We were all undergraduate students at the University of Denver’s Lamont School of Music pursuing degrees in jazz studies & commercial music. We were seeking to combine the skills we were learning in the university setting with our other musical influences. Specific Ocean draws influence from genres including indie rock, blues, and funk, and combined with our jazz experience creates a unique sound and always leaves room for spontaneity and improvisation.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
Our band is unique because of all the different influences we draw from. While our songs have structure, our jazz background allows us the freedom to communicate and improvise around the structure. Because of this, each performance is unique.

We’re most proud and excited about what we’ve been able to accomplish during the pandemic. We filmed a music video for our song “Insecurity,” released two new singles – “Killjoy” and “Unity Effect,” and continued to work on our upcoming full length release.

Our journey in growing this project has always been enjoyable but also presented some challenges along the way – the biggest being changes in personnel over the years. Due to various circumstances, such as band members moving away, our lineup in the band has shifted many times. However, because of our passion for this project, we’ve always found a way to continue writing and performing. In many ways, the changes in personnel have opened up new creative avenues and made new connections.

We want people to know how much we appreciate and value the musical community surrounding us. We love being a part of the Denver scene, and hope that listeners connect with our music.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Some of our favorite spots in the city are the venues that support local musicians and we love to perform at. These venues include Larimer Lounge, Lost Lake, and Globe Hall. As jazz musicians we also frequent Denver’s jazz staples Nocturne and Dazzle and jam sessions at the Meadowlark.

Outside of musical settings, we love the Clyfford Still museum, Kaladi Coffee, and Illegal Pete’s. Wherever you go in Denver, there is always amazing arts and culture happening.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
We would like to dedicate our shoutout to all of our amazing musical mentors throughout the years. Without wonderful teachers, we would not have the necessary skills or mindsets to pursue our creative goals.

Website: https://specificoceanband.bandcamp.com/

Instagram: https://instagram.com/specificoceanband

Twitter: https://twitter.com/specificoceanco

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/specificoceanband

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCn6SKiYp18_xtNihVp_zU-A

Image Credits
Caroline Baker, Annaleisa Friednash,

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