In their July 2026 EP Auburn, Ocean Charter of Values create a soundscape that keeps time by the way the sky looks at different times of the day. Lead singer and guitarist Nicholas Laugher sings about the morning light, the orange light of dawn, and the full moon night on various tracks. Parallel to these transitional times runs a vulnerable confession of co-dependency and love.
The EP opens with stripped-back guitar in “Auburn”, later joined by a quickening drumbeat, as Laugher pleads with as well as sings in admiration of the lover’s relentless support and its importance during difficult times. Even when the two are going through hard times, and the hope is less, the mere presence of the lover is like a compass showing the way. Liam Blackwell’s work on the drums sets the pace for the track and makes you want to sway to the music.
In the track “Ciggy Boi”, the tone shifts even as the lyrical themes remain. We can’t decide if the singer is ready to move on or if he wants to stop waiting and do something to get his lover back. And oh, the guitars on this track – especially towards the end as Laugher sings “in the full moon” – sound so glittery and bright.
The melody on the third track “Gibbous” is really unique and jarring. The lead guitar on this track steals the spotlight as the singer navigates the hurtful world with the hope of this one person choosing him. Throughout the EP, one thing is certain: The lover’s presence is non-negotiable. It is the one thing Laugher is holding onto, pleading for, or hoping for in each track. In this sense, the project is like a love letter and a plea, dense with vulnerability and heart-on-the-sleeve lyricism. The change of pace in “Gibbous” about three-quarters through and the harmonies in the end make for a perfect closing to the song.
The EP ends with a slower song, “Hindered Spirits”. The guitar on this one is a little fuzzy, which creates a nostalgic/dreamy feeling. It is a heartbreak song, which hits even harder after all the yearning laced through the EP until this point. Laughter shines vocally here, and the percussion in the back sounds like a heart beating. It does leave you sad, this track.
The use of light, moon, Mercury, coldness, and ever-present longing sets Auburn in a blue world to match the cover art of the project. With this EP, Ocean Charter of Values creates a portrait of a longing lover in the relentless world. Plus, they are on tour in November, for which you can find more details on their social media!
Take a listen to Auburn below.
Written by Riya
