The Outlaw Ocean is a work that prompts a re-evaluation of life. To look beneath the surface of the things we once thought we knew. Having spent many days at the beach growing up, I’ve always had a strong connection to the sea and I experienced this re-examination first hand as I created my first song. I discovered an audio clip in the archives of someone saying: “It’s tough, but we’re doing our best.” My first impression was that the sentiment felt uplifting in the face of bleak circumstances. But as I delved deeper into Ian’s reporting, learning of the environmental issues and crimes humans commit against other humans, I began to consider the thought on a deeper level — is this the best we can do? I re-started the track with this new idea in my mind. 

It was challenging to take the reporting and translate it into music that conveyed my thought process. But I knew that I wanted to capture the duality of the sea through my two tracks. It’s something I feel has a unique existence — the ocean is both calming and powerful, peaceful yet destructive. The first track asks listeners what more we can do, while my second track, “Treasure Below,” portrays the uplifting beauty that the sea holds. I hope listeners feel a sense of urgency to better understand the issues highlighted through this project, and also respect the awe-inspiring landscape of open waters.

Andy Feldman