Ocean Colour Scene (often abbreviated to OCS) are a rock band from Birmingham, England.
Their first 7" single was called "Sway" and was released in the early '90s UK indie era. The band released several other records and enjoyed a loyal local following, although it wasn't until the Britpop scene that their music became nationally and internationally known, with their songs being featured on Chris Evans' TFI Friday and the film Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels.
Their sound is deliberately retro, and influenced by seventies rock especially. The lack of electronic instruments and new innovations has led to them being criticised as " luddites" and derivative.
Their traditional line-up has consisted of: Steve Cradock; (b. 22 August 1969); guitars, piano, mandolin, E-bow, autoharp, organs and backing vocals Simon Fowler, (b. 25 May 1965); vocals, harmonica and acoustic guitar Oscar Harrison (b. 15 April 1965); drums, piano and backing vocals. Damon Minchella (b. 1 June 1969); bass guitar
Damon Minchella was fired by the band in 2003, temporarily replaced by Gary "Mani" Mounfield for a support slot with Stereophonics and then was permanently replaced by Dan Sealey on bass. Another guitarist, Andy Bennett was also added, making them a five-piece.
Alison Moyet; backing vocals. Tony Hinnegan; cello. Paul Weller; electric guitar, organ, piano, backing vocals. P.P. Arnold; vocals. Rico Rodriguez; trombone. Tony Griffiths, Chris Griffiths; backing vocals. Brendan Lynch; mellotron. Steve White; tabla, timpani, percussion. Bryan Travers; saxophone. Mick Talbot; keyboards. Edgar Summertyme; backing vocals. Mark Feltham; harmonica. Kevin Rowe; electric guitar. Linda Thompson; vocals. Dalbir Singh Rattan; tabla. Duncan Mackay; trumpet. James Hunt; saxophone. Nichol Thompson; trombone.
