An ocean is a pretty big subject to tackle through a piano composition, but Alexander Laing takes an interesting approach with “Oceans”, out now via Now Listen. Rather than trying to capture every aspect of the ocean, he builds the track around an expressive piano arrangement, with wider textures adding depth to the sound.
One of the appealing things about the single is the balance between its melodic focus and its cinematic feel. The piano gives the listener something familiar to connect with, while the additional layers bring a greater sense of grandeur. It’s a combination that suits modern classical music particularly well, allowing a piece to feel expansive without losing its musical identity.
There’s also a welcome sense of personality in the way Laing approaches his subject. The ocean provides the inspiration, but the composition isn’t dependent on knowing that beforehand to appreciate it. The music has its own character, making “Oceans” an enjoyable standalone listen as well as part of a larger project.
Produced by Morgan Nicholls, the single features on Laing’s debut album, The Delta Wave, recorded in 2025 and released earlier this year. The album explores dreams and the subconscious, bringing together compositions inspired by experiences beyond waking life.
Accompanied by Adrian Tanner’s official music video, “Oceans” is an appealing introduction to Laing’s work and a reminder that instrumental music can offer plenty to connect with, even without a single word being sung.
