Ocean Songs is a new kind of album. Described as ‘docu-pop’, it is a blend of science data, soundscapes and song, exploring human relationships with the ocean.
Following on from the creation of a sound installation on the Cutty Sark, Colin Riley developed this album. It was produced by Sonic Collaborations, a company that Colin co-directs, and which looks to make creative connections between music and other disciplines.
The album integrates spoken extracts from scientist/author Helen Czerski (reading from her award-winning book Blue Machine) and a spoken extract from George Monbiot about how whales contribute to the ecology of the ocean, helping to sink carbon. Commissioned by Royal Museums Greenwich, Ocean Songs has just been released on Squeaky Kate Records. It was launched in March 2026 at London’s only floating venue Theatreship and goes to Latitude Festival this summer.
Read on for Colin’s account of the creative process, which outlines the decision to be made when faced with writing, recording and rehearsing a whole album from scratch in less three months.
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